How does Glass Sandblasting work?
Sandblasting is one way of etching glass that creates a look associated with frosted glass. Sand is naturally abrasive and when combined with fast moving air, will wear away at a surface. The longer the sandblasting technique is applied to an area, the more the sand will wear away at the surface and the deeper the cut. Other materials such as silicon carbide, crushed nuts, aluminium oxide and bicarbonate of soda can be used in the sandblasting process; it is advisable to explore the various blasting medias before usage to determine which works best for the effect you are hoping to achieve.
Trained worker with Sandblasting Jet tool (note the gloves he is wearing for protection)
The concept, whilst fairly standard, should not be attempted by untrained individuals due to the abrasive nature of sand moving at high speeds. In principle, the process of sandblasting involves using fine aggregate shot from a nozzle against the glass and allowing it to corrode the surface; the level of corrosion will determine the final look. This can be varied by the speed of the jet, the amount of sand used and the diameter of the nozzle. Sandblasting will create a semi-transparent milky finish likened to frosted glass. Sandblasting can either be achieved using a blast hose with nozzle jet or through the use of a blast cabinet.
By using an adhesive vinyl, which will be unaffected by the sandblasting process, intricate patterns and detailing is possible. By blocking off areas you wish to remain clear, the adhesive vinyl will act as a buffer against the abrasive nature of the sand and protect the glass from corrosion. By applying the vinyl and delicately cutting into the desired shape, preferably using an automated cutter, complex designs are achieved.
Depth sandblasting involves corroding the glass at multiple levels to etch a three dimensional design into your glass. This process can take a considerable amount of time due to the nature of blasting the glass one layer at a time. It is advisable to use thicker glass when depth sandblasting as it both tends to display the finished design better and thinner glass may break under the strain of multi-layered sandblasting.
Glacien Glass offer both standard and depth sandblasting as an etching technique for your glass decoration needs. However, we also offer a host of other services including acid etching, gold leafing, painting/tinting and vinyl lettering which may suit your needs better.
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We can fabricate door and window panels, fanlights and mirrors to your exact specification; we can even create fully bespoke designs or replicate existing patterns to your liking. Why not have a look at our Glass Design Catalogue for examples of patterns and images.
