Mirror Etching

Mirror etching--the art of engraving a decorative design into the face of a mirror--has been practiced for nearly as long as mirrors have existed. Initially, etching consisted of crude engravings done with stone or other solid material. In 1535, Vincenzo D'Angelo, a Venetian glass maker, introduced diamond point engraving on mirrors. He later applied this technology to blown glass.

History

During the 18th century, the method of etching mirrors by immersing the sheet of glass in an acid base gained popularity. Preparation for etching the mirror involved coating the areas surrounding the image to be etched with rosin and beeswax to create a resist. Glass immersed in the acid resulted in an etched appearance, while the area covered by the rosin resist remained untouched. Removing the rosin and beeswax revealed a beautifully etched design surrounded by clear glass.

Home Etching

Mirror etching acid available at craft stores makes it possible to create etched mirrors at home. The process involves some risk, as the acid is caustic and releases dangerous fumes. With proper tools and care, mirror etching is safe and effective.

Process

To etch your own mirror, you will need contact paper to work as the resist, in much the same way as beeswax and rosin were used in early etchings. Choose one with a design or an opaque color. This will show up easier against the glass background, allowing you to see your design clearly. Cut a section larger than the design you wish to engrave. Remove the contact paper in the area you intend to engrave, leaving contact paper surrounding the image attached to the mirror

Apply the contact paper to the mirror and smooth to remove any wrinkles. Trace the template of the design onto the contact paper. Use a craft knife to cut the design from the contact paper. Use care to cut a smooth outline. Any jagged edges or uneven lines will show in the final product.

Applying Acids

Choose a well-ventilated area to work in. The acids release dangerous fumes and pose health risks if used in enclosed areas. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from the acid. Apply the glass-etching acid to the design using a foam brush or paper towel. Allow to set for the time indicated on the bottle--generally between 5 and 15 minutes. Rinse the etching acid from the mirror with cool water and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Remove the remaining contact paper to reveal the etched design.

Function

Etched mirrors provide a touch of elegance to any room, and are particularly attractive in bathrooms, guest rooms or bedrooms. Large, ornate mirrors set in decorative frames are available in houseware or home-decorating stores.

Back-Lit Etching

Back-lit etched mirrors make a dramatic statement. They are created by etching the design to the back of the mirror before assembling and adding a light feature. Back-lit mirrors emphasize the engraved design and cause a slight reflection in the mirror. These are especially effective in locations where the mirrors serve as a decorative feature observed from the distance.

Resources

• Venetian Etched Mirrors