How to Prepare a Mild Steel Plate for Etching
Preparing a mild steel plate for etching gives printmakers a durable, affordable surface capable of both fine detail and deep, expressive bites. At KraftMetals, we supply high-quality mild steel etching plates in A-sizes and custom formats, made from CR4 cold rolled mild steel for a smooth, even surface that’s ideal for intaglio, engraving and experimental techniques.
Why Choose Mild Steel for Etching?
Mild steel offers a flat, consistent surface with excellent plate-making characteristics. When etching steel plate, artists benefit from the material’s ability to take both crisp lines and heavily bitten areas. Its affordability makes it popular for students, while its durability suits professional printmakers producing multiple states or deep etches.
Step 1 — Cleaning and Removing the Oiled Finish
Mild steel plates are supplied with a protective oiled coating to prevent rust. This must be fully removed before applying grounds.
- Degrease using plate cleaner, solvent, or whiting and detergent
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth
- Ensure no oil remains — it affects bite consistency
Step 2 — Preparing the Surface
Once clean, the plate can be prepared for your chosen technique. Steel allows for a wide range of textures and finishes.
- Light sanding improves adhesion of hard and soft grounds
- Steel wool or polishing pads create a smoother surface for fine line work
- Directional graining can create atmospheric tonal effects
Step 3 — Applying Grounds
Mild steel works well with traditional and modern grounds. It is especially good for bold, high-contrast intaglio work.
- Hard ground for crisp lines and detailed drawings
- Soft ground for textured impressions and softer marks
- Acrylic resists for low-tox studios and experimental techniques
Step 4 — Etching and Bite Control
Mild steel can be etched using suitable solutions depending on your studio setup. Because steel bites differently from zinc or copper, always test bite strength first.
- Monitor the plate closely to avoid over-etching or under-bitten areas
- Use stop-out varnish for multi-stage or layered plates
- Rinse thoroughly between stages to prevent residue buildup
Step 5 — Beveling the Plate
Steel is harder than aluminium or zinc, so beveling requires a stronger file or scraper. Bevel the entire perimeter to keep blankets safe during printing.
Choosing the Right Mild Steel Plate
For most printmaking techniques, 1.0mm CR4 mild steel offers the best balance of rigidity, durability and ease of preparation. Thinner plates such as 0.7mm are suited to lighter work, while 1.5–2.0mm plates provide longevity for deep etched states. All A-sizes and a 600 × 500mm format are stocked with free trimming available.
FAQs
Is mild steel good for detailed etching?
Yes — CR4 mild steel takes fine lines very well and also performs brilliantly for deep bites and bold textures.
Do steel plates rust during etching?
The protective oil is removed before use, but good studio practice prevents rust. Dry plates thoroughly between stages and store them safely.
What thickness is best for etching steel?
1.0mm is standard. Choose 1.5–2.0mm for deeper etches or repeated plate use.
Order Mild Steel Etching Plates
Explore our full range of mild steel etching plates with free trimming on all standard sizes and optional custom cutting.