You can etch patterns and designs onto glass using a variety of tools.
An artist uses a variety of tools and techniques to etch glass that vary, depending on the type of glass being etched, the complexity of the design and the skill or the preferences of the artisan. Complicated, professional-quality designs require expensive equipment and specialized knowledge to complete, but you can create glass etching designs with simple tools and at less expense in a home workshop.
Rotary Drill
You can purchase special bits for glass etching specifically for use with a rotary drill. These bits cut and score the glass with precision; they are available in a wide variety of sizes to create the desired patterns. The artist inserts the glass-etching bit into the drill, turns on the drill and presses the bit into the glass to score the pattern. A small rotary drill can quickly and easily cut and rough the glass surface, but the artist must use it carefully so the glass does not shatter as he etches.
Portable Sandblaster
Sandblasters create a pattern on the surface of the glass by shooting pressurized sand onto the glass. You must attach a pattern onto the glass with a protective material such as rubber or masking tape. The power of the sandblaster determines the type of material used for the stencil. The stenciled pattern protects the glass under the stencil from the sandblaster, while the sand scratches and pits the exposed glass surface with pressurized sand, which leaves the etched pattern.
Etching Cream or Spray
You must create a patterned stencil and attach that pattern to the glass with glue or tape. Next, you apply the etching cream or spray to the surface of the glass inside the stencil and then wash it away after the amount of time determined by the product manufacturer. Glass-etching chemicals are skin irritants and exude harmful fumes, so you must use caution when applying these chemicals.
Pick and Hammer
Professional artisans sometimes etch glass with a simple pick or chisel with a diamond tip and a hammer. Few artists continue creating designs on glass with a pick or chisel because this method is difficult and time-consuming. A small slip of the hand can ruin a design or break the glass. However, with these hand tools, you can apply more or less pressure as needed to create depth in the design that other etching methods do not allow.
