etched glassware {tutorial}

Always a fan of anything monogrammed, I decided to embellish a few inexpensive lowball glasses with a couple of craft store supplies and just love how they turned out.

Here’s what you’ll need to etch glassware:

:: clear glassware
:: etching cream {like this}
:: sponge brush
:: clear contact paper
:: exacto knife

STEP ONE // print letter or number on contact paper

I don’t have a photo of this step, but you’ll just want to choose a font and size that works for your glass {I used my favorite font for numbers called Engravers}. Tape a piece of contact paper to a sheet of cardstock so that the clear side is facing the paper {this just allows the contact paper to go through the printer}. Print your design as a mirror image {it should be a setting in your printer dialog box}.

STEP TWO // trim around your number leaving a 1/2″ margin around all sides.

STEP THREE // use an exacto knife to cut out numbers.

STEP FOUR // remove the paper backing and stick number to glass.

STEP FIVE // clean up any rough edges with the exacto knife.

STEP SIX // dab a generous amount of etching cream onto glass. Be very careful not to touch the cream with bare skin {wear gloves if you must}. Leave the cream to do it’s work for a few minutes {read the back of the bottle for specific instructions}.

STEP SEVEN // rinse off the cream in cold water and wipe dry with paper towel. Peel off the contact paper stencil and enjoy your etched creation!

For a few more ideas and inspiration, here are two other great etched glass tutorials:

Click the images to see the instructions.