What to use to etch copper, brass or base metal

I am trying to etch Metals such as copper, brass or base metal. I am trying to etch old plumbing parts using stickers as a template. I know NOTHING about chemicals or such. WIll glass etching solution work? I also wondered if there were something less expensive.

There is an easier way, high carbon steel stamps. They are commercially available for about 40-50 dollars, and all you need is a hammer and a hard floor. This takes all the harmful acids out of the mix, just stamp towards the inside of the pipe as it will dent the pipe a bit, but it will work fine.

To etch your plumbing parts you can use battery acid ⇦ on eBay or Amazon [affil link] . It's a 30 t0 40% solution which you can add water to for a more dilute mix. Cost $6.00 Rinse well after use. Use a non metallic dip tank also, wear rubber gloves ⇦ on eBay or Amazon [affil link] and apron ⇦ on eBay or Amazon [affil link] .

Be careful and good luck -- Fred.