How to Use Etching Cream for Glass

Using glass etching cream you are about to create permanently etched designs of a professional quality in only 3 basic steps in less than 3 minutes.

Please Note: Before starting to use the etching cream please read the manufacturers safety instructions. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Materials required:

* A ruler

* Glass Cleaner

* Masking Tape

* Lint-Free Cloth

* Hobby Knife

* Cotton Buds

* Steel Wool

* Newspaper or Drop Cloth

* Pen

* Eraser

* Paper Towels

* Protective Goggles

*Latex Gloves

* Pencil

* Carbon Paper

* Additional Stencils

* Long Sleeved Clothing

* Contact Brand Shelving Vinyl

Step 1: Cleaning the Glass or Mirror

The glass must be scrupulously clean. Use a glass cleaner that does not advertise it is "Finger Print Resistant" as this type of cleaner leaves a film that prevents the cream from acting properly. Handle the glass carefully after cleaning so as to not leave finger prints on the work area. Dry the glass completely.

Step 2: Select and Apply the Stencil

Carefully cut the stencil sheet and the frosted backing sheet together to avoid touching the back surface of the stencil. Determine exactly where you wish to locate the design on the glass by using the ruler. Remove the backing sheet from the blue stencil and store for later use. Place the stencil on the glass with the tacky side touching the glass and secure it temporarily with masking tape.

Use a wood craft stick and transfer the design from the sheet to the glass by rubbing the stick firmly over the design in all directions. You will see colour change from a dark blue to a lighter colour as the design is transferred. Be careful not to dig the stick into the stencil or peel up the edges and damage it.

Step 3: Remove the Top Carrier Sheet

When the design has been adhered to the glass, remove some of the masking tape and slowly peel back the clear top sheet. Replace the top sheet and repeat rubbing down if any part of the design has been completely transferred.

Step 4: Masking the Non-Design area with Masking Tape

Mask the area surrounding the design with masking tape being careful not to cover any of the design elements. Overlap the tape by about 2 to 3 mm. This is to prevent any of the cream from contacting the clear non design parts of the glass. Press the frosted back up sheet lightly over the stencil and tape to ensure firm contact. Hold up to the light and check that the design and tape do not have small tears or holes where they are not supposed to be and cover with a small piece of tape. Note that tape will tear the design if you try to remove it.

Step 5: Applying the Etching Cream

For best results room temperature should be around 22 degrees Celsius. Shake the etching cream thoroughly before use. Wear the latex gloves and protective eyewear. Place glass on newspaper in a well-lit area near a water source. For the cream to work, you must apply a thick layer enough layer of the cream so you cannot see the design through it. Be careful to stay within the taped area.

Step 6: Removing the Etching Cream and Stencil

Allow the etching cream to stay on the glass for one minute only and then immediately wash off all the cream under a tap using luke warm water. After all the cream has been removed remove the stencil and tape. Clean the glass using a window cleaner and dry.