Etching vs. sandblasting for small pieces

quill · Post by **quill** » Sat Apr 12, 2003 9:03 pm

I noticed a lot of info on sandblasting fused glass but not a lot about using etching liquid or cream to matte the surface. I use this this a lot for beads & am using it for small cabs (I just have a small kiln, 6" by 6".)

Is there any reason it is not used more? I can see it wouldn't be very practical for large pieces but sandblasting does not seem practical for very small ones.

Tony Smith · Post by **Tony Smith** » Sat Apr 12, 2003 10:38 pm

Hi Quill,

I guess it's a matter of preference. I do a lot of small detail blasting through surface coatings such as mica, which etching cream won't touch, and dichroic and iridize coatings which it will. But I also use sandblasting to reshape a piece, remove sharp edges and remove kilnwash and other defects, none of which can be done with Armour etch. If I was only looking to make a piece turn frosted, without trying to affect the texture, I suppose I could use an etching cream.... but I want more...

Tony

quill · Post by **quill** » Sat Apr 12, 2003 11:00 pm

I never thought of sandblasting to remove sharp edges or reshape a piece. Do you reheat the piece after, if you want a shiny surface?

Tony Smith · Post by **Tony Smith** » Sun Apr 13, 2003 7:31 am

Yes, absolutely.

After sandblasting, to bring everything back to a uniform glossy finish, I bring the piece up to 1450 for 20 minutes.

Tony