Description
Our copper etching plates are available in natural and polished finishes, providing a reliable surface for artists who need a clean, consistent material for etching copper plate using traditional or modern printmaking techniques. Each plate is precision-cut from premium-grade copper sheet, ensuring accurate thickness, a smooth working surface and excellent detail-holding for intaglio, engraving, drypoint, aquatint and other fine art processes. Copper remains the benchmark material for professional printmakers thanks to its workability, durability and ability to carry exceptionally fine lines.
Natural Copper Etching Plates
Our natural copper etching plates feature a traditional mill finish. This untreated surface allows you to prepare the plate exactly to your needs – sanding, polishing, or texturing as desired. The slight surface grain from manufacturing makes it ideal for those who prefer to create their own surface preparation, apply patina, or experiment with different artistic effects. This option is especially popular with printmakers who enjoy full control over every step of the process.
Polished Copper Etching Plates
The polished copper etching plates come with a mirror-polished surface, ready for immediate use. This highly reflective finish requires minimal preparation before inking, making it ideal for fine line work, intricate engraving, and high-definition prints. With a perfectly smooth surface, polished plates are an excellent choice for artists looking to maximise sharpness and clarity in their work.
Popular Sizes & Thicknesses
- Available sizes: A6, A5, A4, A3, 600 x 500mm
- Available thicknesses: 0.7mm, 0.9mm, 1.2mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm
- Custom sizes available on request
Key Features
- Choose from natural or polished copper finishes
- Premium copper sheet sourced from trusted mills
- Suitable for professional and student printmakers
- Free trimming on all listed sizes
- Optional laser cutting for bespoke shapes
Choosing the Right Finish
If you enjoy preparing your own plate surface, the natural copper etching plate offers maximum flexibility and creative freedom. For a flawless, ready-to-use plate with minimal setup, the polished copper etching plate is the perfect choice. Whichever you choose, both are crafted to the same high standard to help you achieve the best results in your printmaking projects.
Plate Preparation & Custom Sizing
Plates are supplied face-covered and can be trimmed to your required plate size before shipping. Just add your measurements in the trimming instructions box under the size selector. If you need corners clipped, registration marks, or specialised plate formats, view our Sheet Metal Cutting page.
FAQs – Copper Etching Plates
What type of copper plate is best for etching?
For etching copper plate, most printmakers use either natural mill-finish copper (ideal if you want to prepare and grain the surface yourself) or polished copper (ready to use with minimal preparation). Both hold fine detail, but polished copper is preferred for delicate line work.
Can these plates be used with ferric chloride or nitric acid?
Yes. Our copper etching plates are suitable for ferric chloride, nitric acid, and other traditional etching solutions. The consistent thickness ensures even bite depth across the plate.
Do the plates come pre-grained?
Natural copper plates are supplied in the standard mill finish, allowing you to sand, grain or polish the surface to your preferred texture. Polished plates arrive ready for immediate use.
Can you cut the copper plates to an exact size?
Yes — we offer free trimming on all standard sizes. You can also request custom dimensions or laser-cut shapes where required.
