Etching Basics

Article and photos by Ashley Stollberg

Etching is a fun, simple way to add white markings or patterns to an existing model without having to repaint it. It’s also easy to get started, as you don’t need to buy paints, paintbrushes, sandpaper, or clearcoat. All you need is a hobby knife and a model horse!

What is Etching?

Most Breyer horses are made of a white plastic that is then painted the desired color. Etching takes advantage of this, and involves using a sharp tool (such as a hobby knife) to carefully scrape away the model’s original paint until the white plastic underneath is visible. You can scrape away large areas of paint to make bold pinto patterns, or scrape off the paint in a hair-by-hair fashion for roan, appaloosa, or rabicano markings. You can also keep it simple and just add face or leg markings to make a model look more like your own horse.

An etched Stablemates Arabian next to the original finish model.

Choosing a Model

When choosing a model to etch, the most important thing to take into consideration is the size of the model – Traditional, Classic, or Stablemate. It’s easier to get more intricate patterns on larger models, but smaller models take less time to etch. Cost is another factor, with Stablemates and Classics being more economical than Traditionals. For a total beginner, it’s often best to start with a smaller model to make sure you actually enjoy etching before you tackle a much bigger project.

Choosing a Pattern

When it comes to etching, you can be as realistic or creative as you like! Tobiano, overo, zebra stripes, or silhouettes of your favorite cartoon characters are all possibilities. You could use the beach as inspiration (think seashells and ocean waves!) or go with holiday-themed patterns. For the best results, be sure to have good reference photos of the markings or patterns that you’d like to do.

Choosing a Tool

A hobby knife is the most common etching tool used, but anything that scrapes away the paint without damaging the plastic underneath can be used. Examples of other tools that can work include carbide scrapers, scrapecutters (found in foil engraving craft kits), or carpet knives.

How to Etch

Etching itself is a very simple technique – just hold the model securely, and use your hobby knife (or tool of choice) to carefully scrape away the paint in the desired pattern. Most artists hold their etching tool like a pencil, but do whatever feels most comfortable for you. Be sure to use a sharp blade to make etching as easy as possible, but keep in mind that some models are simply easier to etch than others.

Finishing Up

Once you’ve finished etching, give your model a bath to remove all the tiny flakes of paint that came off while you etched. Even though paint isn’t required for etching, you can paint extra details on your horse if you’d like some added fun. Striped hooves, blue eyes, and silver horseshoes are all examples of additional details you could paint on. Once dry, use a brush-on sealer to protect painted areas.

An etched Latigo Dun It with repainted eyes, a repainted mane, and pinking on the muzzle.	A repainted hoof on an etched model.

Playing it Safe

Etching can be a ton of fun, but not if you get hurt. Be careful not to cut yourself while etching. Using a sharp blade reduces the amount of pressure you have to use, which makes for less accidents. Keep the protective cover on blades when not in use, and keep sharp objects away from pets and young children. Accidents are rare, but better safe than sorry. Last but not least, have fun and enjoy!