OUR GLASS SANDBLASTING/ETCHING PROCESS
What is the meaning of Sandblasting/Etching Glass?
Sandblasting is traditionally used to remove corrosion, contaminants and coatings but can also serve other purposes. This technique is also a versatile and effective glass etching method with various artistic and practical possibilities.
Sandblasted glass looks frostier compared to non-blasted glass areas. It can be used to decorate or customize small pieces like drinking glasses. It can also create privacy while still allowing natural light to enter areas like meeting rooms. Sandblasting is an effective and creative way to reconfigure glass, offering precision and flexibility in its design and execution.
1.) Preparation and Safety
- Clean the Glass: We thoroughly wash the glass with soapy water or glass cleaner to remove oils and fingerprints, ensuring the vinyl stencil adheres properly to the glass.
- Safety Gear: Always wear safety googles, a face mask (or respirator), and gloves.
2.) Create and Apply Vinyl Stencil on Glass
- Design a Pattern: We create a design using vector software.
- Apply Masking Material: We cover the glass with a "resist" which is typically vinyl adhesive.
- Weed the Image: We use an exacto knife to carefully remove the vinyl from areas we want the glass to be etched which leaves the background covered to protect it from the abrasive.
- Mask Over-spray Areas: Lastly, we use painter’s tape to cover any exposed glass that isn't part of the design to prevent accidental etching.
3.) Choosing Blast material and adjusting Sandblasting Pressure
- Choose a Sandblast Media: We use sand silica to sandblast or etch glass.
- Adjust Pressure: We set up the air compressor to ensure the air compressor has a moisture separator to prevent the sandblast media from clumping.
4.) Execute the Sandblast/Etching
- Finesse the Technique: We try to hold the sandblast gun roughly 4 to 6 inches away from the glass and move the gun in a small circular or side-to side motion to ensure a uniform frosted texture.
- Depth Control: For deep carving, we focus the blast on specific areas for longer. Take breaks to visually check the progress against a light source.
5.) Finishing Touches
- Peel & Clean: We carefully remove the masking tape and vinyl resist stencil.
- Final Wash: Finally, we thoroughly wash the glass with water or glass cleaner to remove any residual abrasive dust.