soldermask ?

[jimbob]

Im not familiar with this term. I assume its that green film that covers the pcb traces on a lot of commercial pcb's?

If so- how would a DIY'r do this at home after etching his/her own board?

[KORGULL]

It's not the same as a commercial solder mask, but I have used Testor's brand transparent candy emerald green spray paint found at a hobby store. It gives your board the same neato green tint and protects the copper. I applied it after the board was completely finished and working, but the guy I got the tip from says he sprays it right after etching/cleaning and the heat from the soldering iron will completely vaporize it from the pads as you populate the board - leaving the paint on the traces right up to the solder blobs/pads.

I think real solder masks are made of a more durable plasticy substance.

[jimbob]

very cool idea!

[KE4NYV]

One of my freinds clear-coats his boards right after he etches them and when soldering, it has the same "melt away" effect.  Leaves it with a nice pretty, shiny copper look and it never tarnishes since you locked in the beauty