[HELP] Suggestions for writing on harmonica metal plates

[Jeff C.]

Hello to all.I am hopeful that someone will be able to help me.I am wanting to assemble a collection of autographs of distinguished harmonica players.The autographs will be written ON the metal harmonica plates located on the harmonicas.I am asking for suggestions of the type of writing instrument to be used for this purpose.I would think that a prime consideration would be like a paint pen,but other ideas might uncover other approaches.The item used to write with must be something that would be able to be applied without smearing on the metal and then something that would dry relatively quickly but at that point be a permanent and non-smudge application.There may be other considerations that metalworkers may think of that I have not considered.All suggestions and elaborations in explanation would be greatly appreciated.

[TomG]

No ink or paint pen would be permanent. I would etch the metal itself.

GIMARK Acid Pens

Tom

[Sunset Machine]

Along those lines, maybe a photocopy of a signature can be put to tee-shirt iron-on plastic, and use a photo-resist method of etching. 

Alternatively, paint the metal black, use a scribe to scratch a signature with, and then reverse electro plate to etch. Here's a guy making reed valves that way:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEnNMTMZadw

[Jeff C.]

Thanks to both responders,but I don't think that I could make either one of those suggestions work.Are there any other ideas that could allow me to move forward on this signature idea?

[Highpower]

I've written my initials on a lot of metal tools with one of these.

Dremel 290-01

[TomG]

Maybe your third post on this forum could be an explanation as to why the prior suggestions wouldn't work. We like to discuss things around here so that everyone learns something from the thread, not just the OP.

Tom

[Pete O]

I certainly learned something Tom, I'll be keeping those acid pens in mind for possible future use- wasn't aware of such a thing.

[Sunset Machine]

Maybe Jeff could find more ideas on a clock making or jewelry forum.
http://engravingforum.com/

[Jeff C.]

Well first off, if you are dealing with an acid pen then there is a very good likelihood that there may be instances of people getting hurt while trying to please me by using something that neither one of us are familiar with. Secondly,once acid is introduced onto the metal plates would it not be necessary to have some procedure to neutralize the acid when you get the desired effect of the signature etched into the plate? Also,this post is the first time I have ever been made aware of such a thing as an acid pen. While the generosity of the responders in sharing with me ideas that had not occurred to me previously is appreciated,my skepticism in actually being able to follow through with the demands this approach requires is a real issue. I am concerned that this would need more time and effort than time would allow,as a practical matter. There MUST be another way to do this. The intent on my part is very strong but you must realize that if what I am asking for SEEMS unwieldy or more difficult or too inconvenient, then there is a real chance of people just declining to follow through with the request.
Originally, I was hoping to having my eyes opened up to a writing method that would be more in line with what I already know,only with something that would be permanent on metal. Maybe that doesn't exist-----but by wanting to continue looking for another potential solution doesn't mean that what you are suggesting wouldn't work,its that there are considerations of expediency, simplicity and the demands put upon those who I am asking for their signatures. Does this sound like I am understanding you responses correctly? Again, I DO greatly appreciate your entertaining my inquiry.

[Vinny]

One possibility is to have them sign on paper, then scan and have the metal laser etched.