Electroplate Resist

Jewelry Discussion
1

Need to plate part of a copper metal object, and leave parts of the
copper object unplated.

Nickel electroplate first, then gold electroplate.

What is the best resist (i.e. mask) to prevent plating? Lacquer
(what kind), asphaltum, etc.

Object will be plated in baths up to 140 degrees farenheit.

Jon

2

Commercial plating resists are the best, but you can use nail polish
with some success, a few coats works better than one. Make sure your
piece is absolutely clean before applying and don’t electroclean the
part before plating.

Harry

3

I use “Lacomit”, not sure how commonly available this is as I get it
from a mettalography consumables supplier in the UK. you can try
Bueheller’s in the US.

Nick

4

Jon- i have done a bunch of elctroplating in my day. I’ve always used
fingernail polish that I had bought and didn’t like the color on my
nails. Best to try a small sample first. If your solution is really
hot it may lift off. I don’t usually plate at much higher than 120.

Jo

5

Jon,

I use nail polish. You can remove it afterward with denatured
alcohol. Its a bit of a process, but works well. Im interested to
hear if anyone has a better solution!

Good Luck,
Kennon

6

Stuller carries a sorta pen thing (I’m sure Andy can elaborate) that
has some magical paint in it that resists even solder. It’s really
amazing stuff and gives you a buzz if you sniff it!

Two fer one!

Doc

7 
Stuller carries a sorta pen thing (I'm sure Andy can elaborate)
that has some magical paint in it that resists even solder. It's
really amazing stuff and gives you a buzz if you sniff it!

What Doc is talking about is called the Green Stop Off Pen. We use
it in the assemble and plating areas. It is design to stop solder and
pen plating. For cleaning just use the ultrasonic/.

Andy The Tool Guy Kroungold