Glass Etching

I recently discovered glass etching - it's a great way to personalise your glassware and a simple yet effective way to spice up your kitchen or great as a gift. Perhaps even a personalised vase for your mum this Mothering Sunday!  

For this project you will need: 

• Armour Etching Cream
• Glassware (Jar, Bottle, Candle, Vase)
• Sellotape or masking tape 
• Letter Stickers
• Paint brush 
• Rubber gloves

Glassware can be purchased from several different places:

• Glass Oil and Vinegar Pourer from Dunelm-mill for £1.49
• Toughened Latte Glass from Dunelm-mill for £1.99
• Large Korken Jar from Ikea for £1.25
• Small Kilner Spice Jar from Wilkinsons for £1.25

and letter stickers from Hobbycraft for £1.

However, I found it quite difficult to find the Armour Etching Cream, the only UK based company I could find was Jackson's Art Supplies (based in Stoke Newington, London). I ordered an 85g bottle for £7.60 (inc postage) and they delivered within 3 days :-)

You can permanently etch windows, mirrors and glassware but please note that the product description states that it might not work on plastic, fine crystal and some Pyrex. 

Ensure to wear gloves and protect your surface as the etching cream is a highly toxic acid. 

Avoid contact with eyes and skin!!

1. Ensure you thoroughly clean your glassware. 

2. Decide what you want to etch and where it should go. I like to mark it out with the tape first, it helps to keep your lettering straight. Ensure the edges of the tape are well stuck down to prevent bleed of the etching cream and place your letters or design as desired.

3. Once you are happy with the lettering apply the etching cream generously using a paint brush, ensuring the letters and tape are well covered. 

4. I leave it for 20 minutes however the product only recommends waiting 5 minutes but I can't see a problem with leaving it a little longer to ensure you get a good etch.

5. Scrape off the excess cream back into the bottle to use again. Now place the glass under running water to remove any remaining cream and then wipe clean.

6. Dry the glass thoroughly and gently remove the tape and letter stickers.  

Et voila!!

What will you be etching?

Mel xoxo