Hello everybody do you guys think it is possible to etch a circuit board by painting out a pattern with regular enamel spray paint?

 

The paint almost has to slow the etching process compared to the naked copper around it. The only way this wouldn't be true is if it quickly dissolves or reacts away when exposed to the etching solution. You could answer that - and your overall question - with a quick test. I predict it will be fine.

Be sure to specify which etching chemistry you plan to use - it might matter.

 

Most permanent markers work well. If you have already cut out a stencil to spray paint, it's not much extra work to go around it with a marker.

 

I have made many low-resolution PC boards by painting the pattern with fingernail varnish, using both Ferric Chloride and the Nitric Acid/Hydrogen Peroxide solutions.

 

I don't like Nitric Acid much, but hydrochloric acid works just as well.

 

Try a Sharpie or similar marker pen.

 

I have wondered if anyone had modified an ink jet printer to spray on the PCB design.

The problems I see are choosing the right kind of ink to resist the etchant enough and more important not to run.

 

Actually a vinyl based spray paint might work if one exists.