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Lea Mynah
07-06-2018, 10:32 AM
I'm having a bit of trouble with engraving painted birch ply. When I engrave over it (I mask with tape first), some of the engraved parts are darker from the char/ash, and I'm not sure how to clean it out without damaging the painted surface. Does anyone have a solution? I've tried a soft toothbrush and water, but it doesn't do much.

Kev Williams
07-06-2018, 11:08 AM
replace the water with compressed air...

Lea Mynah
07-06-2018, 12:23 PM
I tried that, but it's not loose or anything; it just looks like scorch/burn.

Bruce Volden
07-06-2018, 2:55 PM
Can you leave the painters tape "mask" on and go at it with a brass brush? They have a couple of choices for bristle length so as not to scour through the tape.

Bruce

Bill George
07-06-2018, 3:19 PM
It should not be burnt. Turn down the power or increase the speed. You just want a brown or dark brown look. List your machine and power in your signature.

Matt McCoy
07-06-2018, 3:41 PM
Do you have a pic?

Lea Mynah
07-06-2018, 5:29 PM
Sorry, thought I added one. It happens any time I have a pattern (this one isn't too bad). It's an Epilog Mini 30w.
389208

Bill George
07-06-2018, 5:44 PM
Lea, that does not look all that great. Duh. Have you tried a vector outline first and then engraving? It looks like your trying to engrave to remove material not mark or engrave. Sorry not much help today.

Bruce Volden
07-06-2018, 7:04 PM
Can you switch engraving preferences to bottom - top???


Bruce

Kev Williams
07-06-2018, 8:55 PM
Try turpentine. It should emulsify the soot and char while being easy on the paint.