Mirrors not only reflect the beauty that you are, they subtly add to the beauty of any room they are placed in. By enhancing the appearance of the expanse of the room, mirrors add to the aesthetic appeal of any room they are used in. Further, by framing, painting, or etching, these can be used for a lot of decorative purposes apart from their function. Here, we talk about the beauty of etched mirrors and how to go about the process of etching mirrors yourself.
The Beauty of Etched Mirrors
Etching is a process by which different beautiful patterns are created on mirrors to add a third dimension to these. This process not only gives an additional element to the mirror in terms of design, it also adds texture to the mirror. Usually, glass etching is done in the form of a border around the mirror, or as a corner design so that the remaining mirror can be used. On the other hand, these mirrors are used solely for decorative purposes where the entire mirror except the design that you wish is etched. In simple terms, the entire mirror save for the design is etched. Etched mirrors are used to create a lot of things. Some of these include:
- Wall Clocks
- Mirrored Coffee Tables or Side Tables
- Coat Racks
- Coasters
- Picture Frames (Photographs are etched on to the mirrors)
While these are some of the common ways in which etched mirrors are available, there are a lot of ways you can put these mirrors into use. You could create etched mirrored bedroom furniture for instance. You can also have personalized etched mirrors made where you can etch a message for a loved one and present it as a gift. This could be done on large wall mirrors as well as on small ones. While you may have mirrors etched outside, or purchase the ready-made varieties, there are ways in which you can make these yourself too. Here is a short tutorial you can refer to when etching mirrors yourself.
How to Etch Mirrors
Etching mirrors is an easy task and if you are one of those people who enjoy creating new and unique items, it is a great hobby to indulge in. Remember to wear gloves, protective eye glasses, and clothes with long sleeves to protect your skin from any contact with the etching cream as it contains acids that can irritate the skin. Carry out the etching in an open area that is ventilated and does not consist of any other objects, as etching cream is likely to damage anything it falls on. Here's how you can go about etching mirrors.
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Instructions |
- Mirror (start with a small size - square, rectangular, oval, or circular)
- Glass/Mirror Cleaner
- Lint-Free Towel/Cloth
- Contact Paper (White)
- Carbon Paper
- Etching Cream
- Utility Knife
- Foam Brush
- Stencil or Design (from magazines or craft books)
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- Start by cleaning the mirror using the cleaner and wiping it dry with the lint-free towel. Ensure that it does not have any remnants of dust or lint on it.
- Cut out the contact paper to a size that is considerably larger than the pattern you wish to etch on the mirror.
- Lay out the paper smoothly by clearing out any air bubbles, in the area of the mirror you wish to make the design.
- Take the carbon paper and place it on the contact paper, exactly on the spot you want the design. Then place the stencil or design you have chosen to trace. You may hold these in place by using tape. Start tracing the pattern on the contact paper, after which you may remove the stencil and the carbon paper.
- Use the utility knife to cut out the design from the contact paper, leaving the part of the mirror you want etched, exposed. Ensure that the contact paper is secured to the mirror thoroughly.
- Wear your gloves and take the etching cream. Dip the foam brush in the etching cream and liberally and evenly apply a layer on the exposed mirror.
- Allow the mirror to dry thoroughly for about 10-15 minutes. The time it takes to dry may vary based on the brand of etching cream you are using.
- Wash the cream off under running water. Remove the contact paper and wash off the mirror again. Your etched mirror is ready.
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If you want to create antique etched mirrors, choose from floral patterns for etching, and go ahead and frame the mirror in a rustic, antique frame. Remember, you can create these mirrors in any design for home decor or simply use this art to communicate a message to your loved one. An etched mirror is a beauty that can be gifted or simply used to enhance the beauty of your home.
