The boards have a hole drilled in them before etching so that a piece of string may be attached to aid in the removal of the board from etchant.
I prefer to use Cupric Chloride and have some tips Here
The first tank worked well, other than a small leak, but it needed to be replaced. Another one was built, but this time some parts of it were heat bent, so it is less pieces. Along a basket type device to lower and raise the circuit boards in and out of the acid. Also made sure there was more room for the heater and bubbler.