How to Etch the Words Bride & Groom on Your Own Wine Glasses

The etching process is simple enough to master after a little preparation.

Personalization is important in a wedding ceremony, for everything from the outfits right down to the dishes. Etching the words “bride” and “groom” into your glasses creates an attractive effect as well as an elegant reminder of your special day. The etching cream you use is dangerous if you don’t handle it properly, so read the label of the cream carefully to ensure your safety.

Things You'll Need

• Adhesive paper
• Craft knife
• Soap
• Gloves
• Etching cream

Instructions

1. Write the words “bride” and “groom” in the font you prefer in reverse on the stiff backing of a piece of adhesive paper. Make the letters large enough to work as a stencil, but small enough to fit on the glasses. Writing the words in reverse will ensure they appear right side-up when you attach the adhesive paper to the glasses.

2. Cut out the lettering with a craft knife. Punch out the letters, leaving a stencil of the words.

3. Wash the glasses with warm water and soap to remove the debris. Allow them to dry thoroughly.

4. Peel the stiff backing off the adhesive paper. Stick the paper onto the glasses so the words are in the position you desire. Smooth the adhesive paper with your fingers to remove wrinkles and bubbles.

5. Brush the etching cream over the stencil using a sponge brush. Only apply the etching cream to the writing in the stencil. Don’t let the cream come in contact with anywhere else on the glass or it will create a scar.

6. Allow the etching cream to set for 15 minutes (or longer, depending on the instructions included with your etching cream). Wipe it off with a stiff paper towel. Do not smear the etching cream over the bare part of the glass.

7. Rinse the glass with warm water to remove the remaining etching cream. Gently peel the stencil off the glasses, leaving the etched words intact.

8. Dip a cotton ball into rubbing alcohol. Wipe off the remaining adhesive with the cotton ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the fonts you want to create and ask for feedback on the best stencil.

• If you aren’t skilled in calligraphy, put a piece of adhesive paper in your printer with the dull side up. Print the words backwards on the image so they are right-side up on the glass.

• Don a pair of thick rubber gloves to protect your skin from the etching cream. Put on safety goggles to protect your eyes as well.

References

• Egress Etch; How To Etch Glass: Supplies; Michelle E. Crean