Homebrew PCBs

> I still don't like the paint, it is ridiculously expensive.
> I'm also not sure how it would be applied in a hole, and i doubt it
> is faster than soldering a via.


I can't read seven thousand posts, so I don't know if this method has
been presented before. But in case it hasn't:

1. When laying out PCB, take note of the component type and don't
depend on a through-hole connection for devices that sit over the hole.

2. Strip about a foot of fine copper wire and *lace* through many vias
at once.

3. Solder vias, strip more wire if necessary and repeat. Lacing the
wire through the board will hold it in place while you solder.

4. Cut off excess wire flush to board, and solder the rest of the
components.

This is about the fastest way possible. Even the little plugs require
you to solder both sides, and any electroplating process takes a huge
amount of time and effort. It just takes a small amount of forethought
when laying out the PCB.