The most common of all intaglio processes, etching inscribes a design into the metal (copper or zinc) by the use of nitric acid. The metal plate is first covered with an acid-resistant coating called asphaltum into which the drawing is made with an etching needle. The acid eats into the exposed lines, engraving them into the metal plate. The depth and strength of the lines are dependent upon the acid-water ratio and the length of time immersed. After this, the asphaltum is cleaned off with two different solvents. This entire process is repeated for each subsequent change or addition to the design. Now the plate is ready for printing the first proof.

The ink is applied to the heated plate and wiped with a soft cloth called Tarlatan. After placing the inked plate on the bed of the etching press, a blotted, presoaked piece of etching paper is laid over it followed by several sheets of absorbent paper. Wool felt blankets are placed on the papers and then the bed is rolled through the press by hand to produce an imbossed intaglio etching. The prints must then dry. After rotating the blotters under which they have been lying flat for five days, the ink and paper bond together permanently.

Most of my etchings are then hand painted with transparent watercolors. I also hand carve feathers out of tupelo wood to frame below a few of my birds. When properly cared for, these limited edition etchings will retain their beauty for many years.