Making circuit traces on plastic parts.

[Riesebosch]

Does anyone know how to selectively block / plate areas on plastic parts (ABS) so that copper plating will create a pattern of traces to create a conductive circuit?

[dwmcrobb]

Are we talking about odd-shaped pieces, or just sheets? If the latter, I'd strongly suggest just having a PCB shop create boards for you (FR4 or similar, not ABS). It's dirt cheap and easy these days.

ABS is a pretty poor substrate for circuit traces, even if you manage to get them to stick. It's too flexible and thermally unstable, which can/will lead to hairline cracks in the traces.