Making my own photo-etched parts?

Have many of you done this stuff? I’ve read in some articles and books how to do it, but I’ve never been super confident.

What do you use as a base metal? I’ve heard anything from popcans, to brass sheet. Is there a thickness measurement that needs to be followed?

How about brands of etching solution. I haven’t looked for it yet, its pry at my hardware store…but we also have a few glass places out here…will glass etch work?

So, I need to make some very specific shapes…which I want to do with my computer…how do I transfer those to the metal?

Hmmmm…a lot I know, but maybe one of you who has done this for him/her self could maybe help me along a little

-thanks for the info
-jon

I’m with you jon, there has been mention of this techique in several different model mags recently but I’ve never seen a feature on how to do it. Hopefully someone can help??

Check this out:
http://www.aircraftresourcecenter.com/Fea1/601-700/Fea688_F-4_Greutert/fea688.html

here is also an article here:
http://www.prototrains.com/