How to Use Masking Tape to Laser Glass
Turn plain glass pieces like stemware, plates and bowls into beautiful works of art with laser engraving. Masking tape can help with laser engraving, either through positioning the piece of glass or for adding texture. Make sure the glass piece contains no metals or colors. Laser engraving doesn't work on leaded crystal. A laser works efficiently and quickly, creating designs that range from the simple to the complex. Engraved glass makes a fabulous gift or you can sell the pieces.
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Things You'll Need
- Masking tape rolls of varying widths
- Glass piece to engrave
- Engraving laser
Instructions
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Gather several rolls of masking tape of various thicknesses -- 1 inch wide, 3/4 inch wide and 1/2 inch wide for example.
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Stack the masking tape rolls into a jig, which is a mock holder for positioning round glass items like wine glasses or vases. Set the round glass piece on its side and position the masking tape under it so that it cups the glass piece and prevents it from moving.
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Start your laser engraving on the side of the round glass piece. Once completed, turn the piece over and engrave the other side.
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Re-use the masking tape jigs as many times as necessary, changing their position to accommodate other round or oddly-shaped glass pieces.
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Use masking tape to add texture to laser-engraved glass. Apply the masking tape to the glass before lasering. After you have lasered the design, remove the tape and a textured surface remains.
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Tips & Warnings
Protect yourself from the heat of laser-engraving.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cristal gravé image by harmonie57 from Fotolia.com
