Etched Glass

Etched glass is the process whereby a portion of the first layer of glass is removed to create a design by corroding the surface with an acid or sandblasting it. You can purchase glass stemware pieces which already have designs or text etched into them, or you can do it yourself. Here is a bit more information regarding etched glass and also how to create it yourself.

Where to Buy Ready Made Etched Glass

Etched glass glassware can be purchased in high end china shops. They make a wonderful gift for weddings and anniversaries. Beautiful and intricate stemware with detailed etched glass designs can be an heirloom. Something that will be treasured and passed down from generation to generation.

Some manufacturers of etched glass stemware include Wedgewood, Lenox, Royal Doulton and Pfaltzgraff. These well-known manufacturers have a reputation for creating high quality etched glass stemware. They are available at most fine china shops worldwide.

Make Your Own Etched Glass - a tutorial

Creating your own etched glass is not too difficult with the tools and materials that are available on the market today. Here is the easiest and quickest way to create etched glass. To start with, you will need to purchase a few tools and materials:

• etching cream (available from craft supply stores)
• foam brush
• disposable gloves
• a mask or stencil (find one in a design you would like to replicate)
• a clear glass, plate or bowl- tape

Be sure the surface of your glass piece is clean and dry. Tape down the stencil to the area to be etched. Try and keep it flat so that when you add the etching cream it will not seep underneath and bleed the design. If available, you can apply spray adhesive to the back of your stencil to have it adhere more evenly.

Be aware that etching cream is a dangerous substance. You must work in a well-ventilated area and preferably use a mask. Put on your gloves and carefully spread out the etching cream onto the exposed area that the stencil leaves open. Do not add very much. A thin layer will suffice. Wipe off any areas that received too much cream. Following the directions on the bottle, usually about 15 or 20 minutes, and allow the etching cream to sit.

After the required time, wipe away the etching cream with a paper towel. Remove your stencil and clean the glass with warm water and soap to clean. You have now created your own custom etched glass piece!

What to do with Etched Glass

Etched glass pieces are great gifts to give to someone. Birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, weddings, etc. All those type of events have something to be commemorated. Try making etched glass on a glass, vase, display plate or another piece. Etch a date, event and names on a display plate for an anniversary gift. Etch a design or logo in the glass for a business function. Use them as awards at a presentation.

Etching glass is easy once you get the hang of it. All that is required is a little practice and patience and you can create your own one-of-a-kind masterpiece! If you are not keen on doing the project yourself, you can also have it done professionally. Most china shops will have resources for having a glass piece you purchased there made into a lovely etched glass piece.