READ THIS BEFORE YOU ETCH
From blank glass to permanent masterpiece.
Slow down, protect your workspace, and follow every safety instruction on your etching solution.
TAKE IT ONE STEP AT A TIME
Glass etching instructions
Read the full guide once before starting. Then keep this page nearby while you work.
Prepare your workspace
Find a well-ventilated area with easy access to running water. Give yourself enough room to work without bumping or moving the glass.
Lay down newspapers or a protective covering. A protective mat or cling-wrapped cutting board can help shield the surface beneath your project.
Gather your materials
Set out everything before opening the etching cream so you never have to leave the project unattended.
- Glass item
- Vinyl stencil
- Glass etching cream
- Rubber gloves
- Paintbrush
- Timer
- Soap and water
- Lint-free cloth or paper towel
- Newspaper or a protective work mat
Clean the glass
Wash the glass item thoroughly with soap and water to remove dirt, dust, and fingerprints. Dry it completely with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
A clean, dry surface helps the vinyl make a tight seal and keeps etching cream from slipping beneath the stencil.
Apply the vinyl stencil
Carefully peel the backing from the vinyl stencil and place it onto the glass. Smooth out bubbles or wrinkles with your fingers or a flat tool.
Press every edge of the design firmly against the glass to prevent etching cream from seeping underneath. Carefully peel away the transfer tape while making sure the stencil stays on the glass.
Protect yourself
Put on rubber gloves before opening or handling the etching cream. Keep the gloves on through application, rinsing, and initial cleanup.
Apply the etching cream
Using the paintbrush, apply a thick, even layer of glass etching cream over every exposed area inside the stencil. Be generous enough to fully cover the design.
Keep the cream inside the protected stencil area. Do not let the brush, cream, or gloved hands touch unprotected parts of the glass or nearby surfaces.
Set a timer for 5 minutes
Allow the cream to work for five minutes without moving or disturbing the glass. This helps prevent smudging and uneven etching.
If the timing printed on your etching cream differs, follow the product label instead.
Rinse off the cream
When the timer ends, keep your gloves on and rinse the glass under running water. Leave the stencil in place while you rinse away every trace of etching cream.
Thoroughly rinse the front and back of the glass to ensure the cream is completely removed.
Remove the stencil
Gently peel the vinyl stencil from the glass surface. Rinse the glass again, then wash it with soap and water to remove any remaining adhesive residue.
Clean up
Wash your brush, tools, and work surface with soap and water to remove any remaining etching cream. Dispose of used materials as directed on the product label.
Wash your hands thoroughly after removing your gloves.
Inspect your etched design
Dry the glass completely, then inspect your finished design. The etch may look subtle while wet and become clearer once the glass is dry.
If you are happy with the result, come by one of our streams or events and tell us how it turned out.
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