jmshep

Here's another trick that I use all the time when I'm laying out designs on metal sheet. Make a photo-copy of the design in reverse, using a good machine (any office supply or copy center box will do.) Make extra copies, one for your files, and others if you screw up. Align the paper on the metal sheet, design side down, and secure the edges with tape. Make sure the paper is flat against the metal. Now the nasty part: Transfering the design from the paper to the metal. This is done by releasing the fused toner on the paper with Acetone. Acetone is a solvent, it is smelly, concentrated fumes can cause problems and it will quickly remove all of the oil and moisture from your skin, so wear rubber or nitrile gloves, and use in a well ventilated area. You can buy it at any hardware store. (At least in the US, don't know about sourcing across the pond.) Completely wet the paper with acetone (the paper will turn translucent.) by rubbing it with a saturated cotton ball. Apply good pressure, this will help the transfer process. Wait a few minutes, remove the tape and carefully peel back the paper. Most of the design should now stick to the metal surface. Handle it with care because it will smudge off if you aren't careful. The design lasts long enough for me to pierce (drill) and saw (or punch) out the bits I don't want. If you do accidentally wipe off the design, just clean the metal with a cotton ball and some acetone (did I mention the gloves and the ventilation?) wipe it dry and try again. It's quick, cheap, works pretty well and there's no annoying paper and glue gumming up the drill bits. Cheers, Jim