Etching creams are used to create unique designs in glass.
Glass fusing is the process of using a kiln to fire glass at various temperatures to create shapes, objects, textures and other details that could not be created without a kiln. While glass fusing can be done without etching, etching allows the sculptor to add details to the work before firing it in the kiln. Because of the high temperatures, kiln firing glass can cause distortion to the etchings. Using specific liquid etching materials can help prevent distortion.
About
The process of glass etching and glass fusion has two steps. In the first step, a glass etching liquid or cream is applied directly to the surface of the glass. This cream uses a system of acids and bases to gently eat away at the area of the glass to which it is applied. Once the etching process has been completed, the glass is kiln fired to create interesting shapes and designs. Typically, sheets of glass are stacked together, then fired in the kiln at high temperatures so that the sheets of glass are fused together. During this process, the sharp edges of the glass become rounded.
Materials
Since glass fusing, or any process in which kilns are used to fire etched glass, can distort the image created by etching, specific materials are needed to attain the image you want. While any type of liquid or cream glass etching solution can be kiln fired, best results are achieved when you work, etch and fire dichroic glass. Because dichroic glass is available with a clear or black backing, the design etched into it will not get lost during the kiln firing process. In addition to liquid or cream glass etching solution, materials for fusing and kiln-firing glass include decals, stencils or carbon paper, baking soda and lint-free towels.
Etching Process
The etching process is completed before kiln-firing the glass. During this process, the design is transferred onto the piece of dichroic glass using a stencil, carbon paper or decals. Then, the etching cream or liquid is applied to the areas of the design that will be removed. These designs can include images or text that will appear black or frosted, depending on the type of backing used. Additionally, standard glue and fingernail polish can be applied to the parts of the glass that will not be etched to allow greater control over what will be removed. The etching cream is left on for approximately 15 minutes, then is rinsed with water. The stencil, nail polish or glue is also removed before firing.
Kiln Firing
Once the glass material has been etched, there are many different techniques for kiln firing. Etched glass can be heated to the minimum temperature required and then fused with another piece of glass. This is called a tack process. Additionally, the etched piece of glass can be placed into a mold with other pieces of glass. The kiln is then heated to between 1,100 and 1,700 degrees F, which causes the glass to become molten. The molten glass then takes on the shape of the mold. Using dichroic glass with liquid etching materials allows the glass to become molten without distorting the image.
