Painting a Mirror to Look Like an Etching

Glass etching looks professional and stylish.

Painting a mirror to look like an etching is a challenge, but it can be done. Real glass etching is often crafted with acids or sandblasting to carve out the glass itself, and the translucent characteristics of glass make etching look distinctive. To paint your mirror to emulate the look of an etching, mimic all the qualities an etching has, such as its frosted gray color, its uniformity and its strong lines.

Things You'll Need

• Glass cleaner
• Paper towel
• Stencil
• Masking tape
• Light-gray glass paint
• Bowl
• Artist paintbrush
• Acetone or paint solvent
• Rag

Instructions

1. Spray glass cleaner on the mirror you plan on painting. Wipe it with a paper towel thoroughly, and allow it to dry. The mirror's surface needs to be clean and dust-free before you undertake this project.

2. Place the stencil in your desired location. If you do not have a stencil, make one from thin cardboard or removable laminate paper. Cut out your handmade stencil with a craft knife. Secure the stencil to the mirror with masking tape.

3. Shake your light gray glass paint well before applying. Pour a 1/2 cup into a plastic bowl.

4. Brush a thin layer of paint evenly over the stencil with an artist's paintbrush. Do not paint just in the open areas of your stencil because it will look too dense. Use even back and forth strokes over the stencil and its opening. Allow it to dry for one hour.

5. Add another thin layer over the stencil. Remove the stencil and tape. Wipe all unwanted paint with acetone or paint solvent and a rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the manufacturer's directions for paint drying time and removal.

• Practice painting your mirror on another piece of glass before working on the final project.

• Sketch out a drawing before you start your craft.

References

• Professional Glass Consultants: How Do You Etch Glass, Anyway?
• Plaid: Glass Painting Basics
• Design Sponge: DIY Project: Kate's Mirror Stencils