A mirror reflects candlelight, adding another dimension to the display. A mirrored surface, beautifully etched, adds elegance to any decor, especially when it's used as a base for displaying a handsome selection of candles or an attractive bouquet. If you like the style but can't bring yourself to pay the designer-shop prices, you can create a polished piece for your home. Thanks to a straightforward stenciling technique and easy-to-use etching cream, it's a breeze to etch this striking surface to add reflective charm. Here's how:
MATERIALS
- Wax paper
- 12-by-20-inch mirror, with beveled edge
- Scissors
- Masking tape
- 24-inch metal ruler or measuring tape
- 3-ounce bottle etching cream (available at craft and art supply stores)
- Latex gloves
- Round-tipped paintbrush, 1/4 inch wide
- Window cleaner
- Paper towels
DIRECTIONS
1
. Cover your work surface with overlapping sheets of wax paper. Place the mirror on the protected surface. Cut a long strip of masking tape and cover the beveled edge with the tape, creating a straight line along one side of the mirror's surface. (The taped edge and beveled edge will match.) Firmly press the tape into place. Repeat on each of the three remaining sides to create a "frame" of tape.
2.
Next, create a second frame of tape with 1/2 inch of mirror showing between the two frames. Press tape down firmly, making certain that it's straight.
3.
Thoroughly read the etching cream instructions and safety information. Wearing latex gloves, use the paintbrush to apply a thick coat of etching cream to the space between the two frames of tape. Lightly dab more cream over any thin areas. Allow the cream to remain on the glass for 5 minutes, then rinse off all traces of etching cream under warm, running tap water. Peel off the tape, rubbing away any remaining residue with window cleaner and paper towels.
4.
Repeat the process of taping and etching to add a second etched line to the mirror's border. Use the first etched line as a guide for placing the tape.
Supply notes:
Beveled mirrors are available in a variety of sizes at most craft stores for less than $10 and can be ordered in custom sizes at specialty glass shops. In this project, masking tape creates the stencils. You can create more elaborate stencils by cutting designs into contact shelf paper. Precut adhesive stencils for glass etching are available in a variety of patterns and styles at most craft supply stores. Etching cream is also available at craft and art supply stores.
-- Kathlyn Meskel
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