According to my notes from Linda Darty, Professor & Champlevé instructor, traditionally 14 or 16 guage metal is used to etch a piece for enameling, especially a large piece, because the heavier metal will still have structural strength, even after is is etched. If you want to have plenty of room to inlay color, you should plan to etch about halfway through the metal, but this isn't always necessary. On large vessel forms use 14 -16 gauge metal, but on smaller jewelry pieces, especially if they are formed, 18 - 20 gauge metal work well, depending on the function of the piece.
According to my notes from Linda Darty, Professor & Champlevé instructor, traditionally 14 or 16 guage metal is used to etch a piece for enameling, especially a large piece, because the heavier metal will still have structural strength, even after is is etched. If you want to have plenty of room to inlay color, you should plan to etch about halfway through the metal, but this isn't always necessary. On large vessel forms use 14 -16 gauge metal, but on smaller jewelry pieces, especially if they are formed, 18 - 20 gauge metal work well, depending on the function of the piece.
