How to Etch Lampwork Beads

There are a lot of people who love the matte look of handmade lampwork beads. Sometimes people don't ask to have them etched, but realize when the beads arrive, that they'd like the aged, worn out matte look on them. Some vendors give customers the options of sending the beads back and having them etched for free, but most people do it themselves. If you want to etch your own beads, here are some useful tips.

First, a small jar of etch solution will be required, you can get these at your local craft shop. Ask the store workers for glass etching solutions, they'll usually know what you mean.

Safety first. Once you have the solution, put on some disposable rubber gloves, open up your windows if you're in a confined space (just make sure that you have ventilation - imagine that it's chemical cleaning - and you're all set to go. IMPORTANT - keep in mind that the etch solution is acid, though it's easily neutralized by baking soda, so make sure to have that close by just in case you spill the acid on anything.

The best thing to use would be a plastic bowl, after placing the beads inside it, pour the solution over them so that they are fully covered. Or if you have the option, strap the beads on something (wire would do), and just put them inside the confinement. Read the instructions on the bottle you purchased, written there should be a time that it takes to etch materials. Usually it's around 5-10 minutes, but just double-check in case it's something new and highly toxic. After that, use a plastic spoon to scoop up the lampwork beads out and take them out. Have a glass of soda nearby to put the beads in there to neutralize the acid - and do never take the beads with your bear hands prior to neutralization.

And voila - you're done! The lampwork beads might have some white dust on them, but don't worry, it's easily removable with a toothbrush. Just don't brush your teeth with it afterwards.

Don't throw away the etching solution - there are 2 reasons for that. First, you don't want to have acid in your garbage, and second - economy. You can reuse the acid over and over for years and it would work just as fine. Though make sure to keep it outside children's reach.

Main things to remember here is to never let the etch solution touch glass or metal. Nor should you let it come in contact with cloth or skin, wash immediately with baking soda.



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