Glass Etching Guidelines

Exhibition Requirements:

Materials:    Glass jars, vases, glasses, beveled prisms or circles, etching cream, stencils, clear contact paper, Q-tips, masking taps, tongue depressor or craft sticks, and glass cleaner.

Skills:   Designs must be level and centered.  Uneven etching is often from using too little cream or incorrect timing.  Be careful to cover unetched glass to prevent "drifting" of fumes.  Edges of design should be clear and sharp.

Finishing:   Sun catchers and ornaments should be ready to hang.  Tape tops on containers to minimize chance of breakage or loss.

Size:   Exhibit should fit on exhibition table without overhang or read to hang.

Cleanliness:    Use glass cleaner, do not exhibit with smudges or finger prints.

Beginning Project Ideas:

Skills & Project Ideas:   Learn to apply rub-on stencils, etching cream.  Learn to cover the rest of the item with masking tape.   Learn to time the process accurately.

Exhibit:   Pre-cut shapes or ornaments or small jars, vases, etc.

Intermediate Project Ideas:

Skills & Project Ideas:   Learn to cut your own stencils.  Try monogramming.

Exhibit:   Sets of glasses or larger or more complex items.

Advanced Project Ideas:

Skills & Project Ideas:   Try desilvering a mirror. Learn to cut your own glass and draw your own stencils.

Exhibit:   Show original etched designs, preferably on a glass item cut by you or show an etched mirror.