Abstract: A method of selectively growing silicon carbide is provided. The method includes forming a mask including tantalum carbide that masks a portion of a substrate, and epitaxially growing a crystal including silicon carbide seeded by an exposed surface of the substrate. A method of selectively etching silicon carbide is also provided. The method includes forming a mask including tantalum carbide that masks a portion of a substrate, and etching an exposed surface of the substrate. A method of fabricating a device is further provided that includes forming a mask including tantalum carbide that masks a portion of a first layer of the device, and epitaxially growing a second layer of the device, wherein the second layer includes a crystal including silicon carbide seeded by an exposed surface of the first layer.