The Procedure Of Glass Carving Alberta

By Angela Briggs


Glass carving is an artistic technique used for inscription of creative designs as well as symbols. There is a technique known as sand-carving that was developed in the late 19th century and is used for creation of multilevel abrasive etchings on glasses. After etching of the design into the glasses, there is addition of light and shadow details. In considering glass carving Alberta residents should appreciate its uses; creation of gemstone, windows, sculptures and more.

When carving glasses, there are 3 main things that are required; etching cream that is acid based, foam brush and stencil. To begin with, the glass piece is placed on a surface that is flat then it gets sprayed with an appropriate cleaner. In order that the etching cream may properly adhere to the surface it is being carved on, the surface has to be very clean and dry.

When the surface has been cleaned well, wiping is done using soft cloth so that it remains dry before the procedure is continued. The design that is to get carved is then chosen. Most experts of the arts and crafts advise that one uses stencil, simply because it comes with already existing designs. Some stencils have the added advantage of coming with adhesive backing to make the stick completely to surfaces.

For purposes of safety, one should wear goggles and latex gloves during the exercise. There are very strong fumes that are produced from the cream which have diverse effects on different people. People with sensitive eyes especially would have to wear goggles, lest their eyes be affected further. People that are allergic to latex should use rubber gloves or vinyl.

There should be application of latex towards the edges of the stencil, especially so at the places where they meet glass. This is used for protecting sections that are intended to get carved. If such sections were to be left uncovered and they come into contact with the cream, chances are that the design will be ruined. After the cream is placed on the foam brush, the brush is used to even out the application. Watching the corners and edges ensures that all sections are covered by the cream.

There should be removal of cream from glass every 10 to 20 minutes for every direction. Creams that are in excess are wiped with paper towels. The hands are then washed properly before gloves are removed so that there are no remnants of chemicals.

Majority of people appreciate carved glasses. One is likely to see the carvings in gift shops, glasses and fancy windows. Not many people are involved in the activity, hence it could be very profitable as a business. Most people cherish the sight of the carvings. In fact, it becomes more fun for those that are doing it for fun.

In considering the business of glass carving Alberta business people would need three main things. These are resists, blast cabinet and a well lit studio. It is a business that is profitable if the right marketing is done. Marketing is done by creating brochures, making a website and even setting booths at local events.




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