They’re the perfect gift for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other celebratory occasions. Or, make your own to keep.
How to Etch Glass
Supplies Needed
Cocktail glassesStencils, vinyl stick-on letters, or decorative tapeClear adhesive paper (to make your own stencil; we used Con-Tact brand)Clear tapeBone folderCrafts knife (to make your own stencil)Rubber glovesPaintbrushEtching creamLint-free clothDish soap
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these easy how-to instructions to etch a design on a glass or jar.
Step 1: Wash Glass
You can etch almost any kind of glass, so the first step will be choosing a design to etch (and what you want to etch it on). Once you’ve chosen the glass item you want to etch, wash it carefully with soap and water. Let it air dry or hand-dry it with lint-free cloth.
Step 2: Prepare Template
Before you can begin the etching process, you’ll need a stencil. To make a stencil, draw your design—or print a template—on printer paper. You’ll need a new template for each glass. Apply adhesive paper or vinyl to the glass surface, then use a bone folder to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles, starting from the outside and working your way toward the center. On a flat surface, place your paper template over a sheet of adhesive paper, secure it with tape, and use a crafts knife to cut out the pattern. You will slice through both layers of paper. Remove the template and lift the adhesive paper where you cut your design. Smooth down the adhesive paper with the bone folder to create a tight seal against the glass. Editor’s Tip: You can order reusable, self-adhesive stencils online, which will save you time. If you use a reusable stencil, wash the stencil with warm water between applications.
Step 3: Paint Etching Cream
Step 4: Rinse and Remove Stencil
Once the etching cream has sat long enough, rinse the glass (from the top down) thoroughly with warm water to remove all cream, then remove stencil and tape. Let glass air-dry or dry with a lint-free cloth. Editor’s Note: Etching cream will mar the finish of porcelain and enamel sinks. Rinse projects in a stainless sink, utility sink, or plastic bucket to avoid damage.
Step 5: Wash Before Use
Wash the glasses with soap and water before use. Etched designs are food-safe.
Etched Glass Project Ideas
Editor’s Tip: Some types of glass won’t take the etch. Test the glass first by marking a tiny dot of etching cream with a toothpick where it won’t be seen. Wait five minutes and rinse.
