Engraver or Etcher
OFO No: 661602
Other names for Engraver / Etcher:
- Etcher
- Glass Embosser
- Glass etcher
- Hand Engraver
- Pantographer
Youtube clip – What is Engraving?
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is an Engraver or Etcher?
An Engraver or Etcher is a trained individual who is able to put images or lettering onto various items.
The difference between engraving and etching:
- Engraving: physically removes bits of metal by scraping, cutting or lasering into the metal using tools
- Etching: uses acids to chemically ‘eat’ away at the metal
Items that are usually engraved:
- Jewellery, Watches and Clocks
- Trophies and Plaques
- Pens, Keyrings and Badges
- Cutlery
- Photo frames, mugs and flasks
- Knives, torches and tools
- Dog tags etc etc
Items that are usually etched:
- Glass: windows, door glass, glasses, fruit bowls, decanters etc
- Copper or Zinc: to create fine-art pieces
- Wood and Plastics: can be used for corporate gifts – logos onto wine boxes etc
- Metal or Stone: laser etching can get very fine detail – etch almost anything onto metal or stone
What does an Engraver or Etcher do?
- decides which method would fit the design to be put onto item
- prepares the article: cleans, removes marks, sands and smooths
- sets up the equipment – makes adjustments etc
- positions artwork in exactly the right place
- starts the machines and works slowly
- examines engraving/etching continually – quality control
- cleans and polishes
- looks after equipment: cleans and services etc
Are you . . . ?
- accurate?
- detail orientated?
- good with your hands?
- a person with steady hands?
- a person with good eye sight?
- mechanically orientated?
- a good speller?
How do I become an Engraver or Etcher?
PATH 1
- Apprenticeship
- Trade Test
PATH 2
- Learnership – Mechanical Engineering (Machining) (Tool, Jig an Die Maker) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
- Trade Test
PATH 3
- Learnership – Foundry Operations (Metal Tooling) Level 2, 3 and 4
- Trade Test
PATH 4
- Learnership – Foundry Operations (Machine moulding) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
- Trade Test
PATH 5
- Learnership – Foundry Operations (Foundry Melting) NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
- Trade Test
PATH 6
- Learnership – Design Foundation NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
- Trade Test
PATH 7
- RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
- If you have already been working a long time as a Engraver or Etcher without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
- Trade Test
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education.
- CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Boilermaker … or … Jewellery Designer
Is becoming a Engraver or Etcher the right career choice for me?
