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Glass Etching Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace

    • Find a well-ventilated area to work in.

    • Lay down newspapers or a protective covering

      • protective mat or cling-wrapped cutting board

  2. Gather Your Materials

    • Glass item

    • vinyl stencil

    • glass etching cream

    • rubber gloves

    • paintbrush

    • timer

    • soap & water

  3. Clean the Glass

    • Wash the glass item thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. Dry it completely with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

  4. Apply the Vinyl Stencil

    • Carefully peel off the backing of the vinyl stencil and place it onto the glass surface. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles with your fingers or a flat tool to ensure good adhesion. Make sure the edges of the stencil are firmly pressed down to prevent the etching cream from seeping underneath. Carefully peel off the transfer tape while ensuring the stencil stays on the surface of the glass.

  5. Protect Yourself

    • Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from the etching cream. This is a caustic chemical

  6. Apply the Etching Cream

    • Using your paintbrush, apply a thick, even layer of glass etching cream over the exposed areas of the stencil. Be generous with the cream to ensure a deep etch. Make sure not to get any cream outside of the stencil area.

  7. Set a Timer for 5 Minutes

    • Allow the cream to work during the specified time. Avoid disturbing the glass during this time to prevent smudging or uneven etching. Don’t leave it on for too long!

  8. Rinse Off the Cream

    • Once the time is up, rinse the glass item under running water to remove all traces of the etching cream. Make sure to thoroughly rinse both the front and back of the glass to ensure complete removal of the cream.

  9. Remove the Stencil

    • Gently peel off the vinyl stencil from the glass surface. Rinse the glass again to remove any adhesive residue left behind by the stencil.

  10. Clean Up

    • Wash your brushes, tools, and work surface with soap and water to remove any remaining etching cream.

  11. Inspect Your Etched Design

    • Once the glass item is completely dry, inspect your etched design. If you're satisfied with the result, come by our streams and tell us!

💡 Always follow the safety instructions provided with the glass etching cream, and handle it with care to avoid skin or eye contact. Enjoy your custom etched glass creation!