Elliot Andal Creates Hand-Drawn Art PCB with Permanent Marker and Ferric Chloride Etching

ALTco creator Elliot Andal has demonstrated a method for producing functional printed circuit boards through manual fabrication techniques. He bypassed standard computer-aided design software to draw traces directly onto copper-clad material using a permanent marker and chemical etching. The resulting board features artistic curves and arcs that would be difficult to achieve with typical manufacturing workflows.

Manual fabrication replaces CAD software for artistic circuit boards

The project relies on specific materials for the hand-drawn process. Andal used Pentel N850 markers to apply the photoresist layer, which provided complete coverage during development. He selected ferric chloride as the etchant because it offered stable results compared to other mixtures he tested. A combination of hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, and salt failed entirely during his experiments.

The handcrafted board successfully powered a 3D printed exhaust fan. Andal noted that the final result performed better than expected for a manually fabricated circuit. The setup proves that artistic PCB designs can maintain functional electrical properties while serving as decorative components in custom electronics projects.

This approach highlights an alternative to industrial manufacturing methods for hobbyists and makers. Standard production lines prioritize uniformity and speed, but manual techniques allow for unique visual layouts that integrate directly into the final product design. The project demonstrates how simple tools can replace complex software constraints when creating specialized electronic enclosures or displays.

ALTco has not announced commercial availability for this hand-drawn PCB method. The creator shared his process as a demonstration of DIY electronics fabrication rather than a sellable product line.