Here is a Knight Rider circuit with a 555 timer. Depending on how fast you want it to run, the resistor, capacitor values may need to be changed.
**broken link removed**
this board is about 3.25" x 2"
We don't need no auto routing.
If you download express pcb (free down load) ten I can send you the files or you can learn from the files.
NOTE the board can afford some more tweeking and add filled planes to save on etching time etc.
As for etching, I prefer the muratic acid/hydrogen peroxide method.