Have you also wondered whether applying a coating to a hand engraving glass is necessary?
In this article, we will learn which situation we should go for a coating. And in which case, we should avoid applying a coating to your favorite hand engraving glass art.
We will also understand that if we apply a coating, what are the advantages and disadvantages that we can get.
What is hand engraving?
When it comes to glass engraving, there are two main types:
- Hand engraving
- Machine engraving.
Hand engraving glass is a centuries-old art form in which a design is scratched into the surface of the glass using a sharp tool or hand-held rotary tool. The result is a beautiful and unique piece of art that is perfect to use for functional or decorative purposes. On the other hand, Machine engraving is done with the help of a computer-controlled router or mill.
Hand engraving is a slow and painstaking process, but it can produce stunning results. The key to hand engraving is to go slowly and be very careful. It’s easy to make mistakes, so it’s essential to take your time and be as precise as possible.
The first step in hand engraving is to create a stencil. This stencil will guide the engraving tool and ensure that the design is symmetrical. Once the stencil is complete, it’s time to start engraving.
When the design is complete, it’s time to clean up the edges. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges. Once the edges are smooth, the glass is ready to use or for a showcase.
Do I have to put a coating over hand engraved glass?
There is no straightforward answer to this question. However, there are a few things to consider when deciding if you should put a coating over hand engraved glass.
- First, What is the purpose of the glass?: Is it for decoration or practical use? For decoration purposes, you may not need to worry about a coating. But if it’s for practical use, like a drinking glass or a vase, you’ll want to consider a coating to protect it from scratches and wear.
- Second, What is the design of the glass?: If the glass is clear and the design is simple, you may not need a coating. But if the glass is colored or the design is intricate, you’ll want to consider a coating to protect the design.
- Third, how will the glass be used?: If the glass is for everyday use, you’ll want to consider a coating. But if the glass is for occasional use or display, you may not need a coating.
Ultimately, whether or not to put a coating on hand engraved glass is up to you. Both choices have pros and cons, so it’s crucial to weigh your options and decide what’s best for your particular situation.
How to put a coating over hand engraved glass?
If you decide to put a coating over hand engraved glass, keep these few things in mind.
- First, make sure that the coating you choose is compatible with the type of glass you’re using. Some coatings can react with certain types of glass, so it’s essential to do your research beforehand.
- Second, be sure to apply the coating evenly and smoothly. If the coating is applied too thickly, it can run and ruin the engraved design.
- Finally, allow the coating to cure completely before using the engraved glass. Most coatings will need to be left to cure for 24 hours or more before they’re fully set.
If you follow these tips, putting a coating over hand engraved glass can be great to protect and highlight your engraving.
Benefits of putting a coating over engraved glass?
There are many benefits of coating hand engraved glass.
The primary benefit of putting a coating is that it can help to protect the engraved area from wear and tear. And even if you plan to use it regularly, a protective layer will help extend its lifespan.
Similarly, the coating can make the engraving stand out more. A clear coating can highlight the engraved lines and give the glass a more polished and lustrous look.
Apart from these two main advantages, it can also help:
- Protect the glass from scratches, dirt, and fingerprints.
- Make the glass easier to clean and maintain.
- Make the glass more durable and less likely to break.
- Prevent the glass from fading or discoloration over time.
- Enhance the beauty of the engraving by making it shine.
- Help prevent moisture and water damage.
Drawbacks of putting a coating over engraved glass?
The main drawback of putting a coating is that it can be challenging to apply evenly. And also difficult to remove the coating layer if you decide you want to change the look of the glass.
Another drawback is that the coating may yellow or discolor over time, making it difficult to match the glass to your home decor.
Finally, the coating can obscure the beauty of the hand-engraved glass and even reduce the overall value of the glass art.
Conclusion
Hand engraving is a beautiful way to add a personal touch to any glass project. Although It’s a bit of a slow process, the results are definitely worth it.
Because it takes a lot of patience and effort, you may be wondering if you need to put a coating over it. The short answer is – “it depends.”
If you decide to put a coating over the glass, it will help protect the engraving and help make the engraving pop and stand out more. The downside to this method is that it can be challenging to apply the coating equally, and it can also be yellow over time.
Similarly, If you decide to leave the glass uncoated, it will look more natural, and the engraving will also be more susceptible to wear and tear.
So, ultimately, whether or not to put a coating over hand engraved glass is up to you. If you want the piece to last longer and look its best, coating it is probably the way.
And if you prefer a more natural look and don’t mind doing a bit of upkeep. In that case, leaving it uncoated is probably the better option.
