Glass can be engraved in two ways. It can be done using a corrosive paste, or, for the more experienced, using a sandblaster. If working glass is new to you then it will be best to start with the first method and then move on to the sandblaster when you are safer.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Engrave with Corrosive Paste
Step 1. Cut the adhesive plastic sheet
Measure the area of the glass object and cut a plastic sheet large enough to cover the area to be treated.
Step 2. Decide on which part of the glass the incision will be made
Cut out the shape of the area on which the design will go (for example a circle, a square or another geometric shape) from the center of the plastic sheet. Keep the leftover piece, it will be reused.
Step 3. Remove the film from the piece of leftover plastic sheet and attach it to cover the glass
The cropped area should line up perfectly where you want to make the design.
Step 4. Trace the design onto tracing paper
If you are good enough you can skip the step on the tracing paper and draw directly on the adhesive plastic cutout. Otherwise, transfer the design from the tracing paper to the plastic.
Step 5. Put the cutout on the cutting plane
Use a utility knife and cut around the line of the design. Set the leftover pieces aside.
Step 6. Attach the design to the center of the geometric shape you have already attached to the glass
Swipe the edges with your thumb to flatten them.
Step 7. Apply the corrosive paste
Apply it evenly and apply a thick layer.
Step 8. Leave the paste on the glass as recommended
Rinse with water.
Step 9. Peel the adhesive plastic off the glass
The remaining design should be engraved on the glass.
Method 2 of 3: Etch with the Sandblaster
Using a sandblaster provides more variations in the patterns that can be created on a glass surface. Depending on the object and your level of experience, using this method you will notice greater control over depth and appearance.
Step 1. Choose a mask
The model is the part of the glass that will be engraved by sandblasting, while the surrounding part will be covered by the mask to prevent it from being sandblasted. Sandblasting paper or vinyl stickers work well as masks. Some use wax, but it can be a tricky medium if you're not an expert.
Whatever you choose, make sure the adhesive is solid so it doesn't come off during sandblasting
Step 2. Choose a stencil template for the glass
For example a leaf and strawberries. Draw it on paper.
In some cases, ready-made adhesive designs can be purchased in specialized stores. You will need a utility knife to remove the unnecessary parts
Step 3. Transfer the design to the adhesive cover
Trace the design on carbon paper or spray the adhesive on the back of the design and attach it directly to the contact paper (and cut both the design and the paper).
Step 4. Stick the design on the glass where you want it
The glass must be well covered so that it does not move and does not spoil the design.
- You may need to put tape around the stencil to keep it from moving and to protect the glass around it, as if you were working on a window. Use wide tape and put on as much as you think it will take to protect affected parts from sandblasting.
- Flat surfaces like windows and photo frames are easier, while vases, glasses and other curved surfaces are more complicated.
Step 5. Get ready to sandblast
- Depending on what object you have, you may want to consider using a cabin or a "box" where you can put small objects such as glasses or vases. If you use it, put the object inside the box, check the controls and get ready to sandblast.
- Larger pieces such as windows need to be sandblasted in place. In this case use the adhesive tape method as explained above to protect the surrounding glass.
- Wear gloves, mask and goggles before using the sandblaster! Safety first of all.
Step 6. Continue sandblasting until the design is engraved
Keep the sandblaster pointed straight at the glass and don't hold it too close.
Be careful not to angle the sandblaster or you risk removing the mask and ruining the design
Step 7. Rinse the glass with water before touching it, or wipe it with a rag if the glass cannot be moved
This cleaning will remove glass dust and other debris.
Step 8. Remove the bezel from the glass
Use hot soapy water to get rid of any adhesive residue. Let the glass dry.
Step 9. Admire your work
A beautiful engraved design is now visible on the glass.
Method 3 of 3: Engrave a Jar or Jar
To help you get started in etching glass we provide you with this project. Attention: it requires the use of corrosive paste.
Step 1. Choose a suitable vase or jar
If this is your first time, choose an inexpensive one to practice.
Step 2. Cut a sheet of adhesive plastic large enough to cover the object
Step 3. Choose a geometric shape for the center of the design
A circle or an oval is fine, but a square or a triangle is fine too. Draw the figure in the center of the adhesive plastic, then cut out with a sharp utility knife. Stick the plastic onto the jar or jar, placing the geometric hole in the center.
Keep the rest of the adhesive plastic for later use
Step 4. Draw a pattern similar to the advanced shape
Cut it out.
Ideas can be flowers, symbols, letters, animals, the sun, the moon, etc. Makes a simple drawing; use books or images taken from the web for inspiration
Step 5. Trace the design on the adhesive plastic you removed from the geometric shape earlier
Then, carefully, cut this other figure using a utility knife. Plan, it will have to be well defined.
Step 6. Attach the design to the center of the hole of the geometric figure on the jar or vase
Flatten bubbles or creases so that it adheres perfectly to the glass.
Flattening using your thumb is best
Step 7. Apply the corrosive paste to the exposed glass part of the design
It is the glass that goes from the edge of the design to the edge of the geometric figure.
- Apply well with a spatula or sponge.
- Follow the additional instructions attached to the corrosive paste.
Step 8. Leave the dough for the indicated time
Then rinse with water.
Step 9. Peel the adhesive plastic off the jar or jar
You should have a nice drawing inside a geometric figure. Well done!
Advice
- It is highly recommended that you take a few lessons from an expert glass engraver before using the sandblasting method. It can be difficult and there is a risk of breaking the glass.
- If the tape or adhesive is difficult to remove from the glass, use a product such as orange or eucalyptus oil detergents to clean the glass well of any residue.
- The engraved glass is more beautiful when viewed from the opposite side. If you are making letters, engrave them backwards so you can look at them from the best side.
Warnings
- When using the sandblaster, wear a mask to protect your airways from glass particles. Eye protection is also highly recommended.
- When using corrosive paste remember to stay in a well-ventilated area.
