@jwcph The faceplates are pressed in a form then polished. I've included a picture from https://singer-featherweight.com/blogs/schoolhouse/timeline-history-of-the-singer-featherweight-faceplate

The picture shows the reverse side of a Singer Featherweight faceplate with clear indicators of press work. It's possible they etch the front afterwards, but it definitely gets pressed first. Hope this helps!