HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN ETCHED GLASS CONTAINERS

For our pantry remodel, I purchased inexpensive Anchor Hocking cracker jars to use as canisters to store our staples. The first thing I did was make them airtight! You can find out how to make your own jars airtight here.  The next step was turn them into custom etched glass containers!

Here is What You Need

• Vinyl letters or design that you want etched into the glass (I used my Cricut to cut out my letters, but you can pick up vinyl letters at any craft store and most discount retail stores.  I use my Cricut™ ALL the time.  I’ll be sharing some more ways Cricut helps me to organize and beautify our home!).
• Vinyl transfer paper (this is easier for me, but you can place your letters or design by sticking them on one by one! Use the method that works best for you)
• Glass canister
• Etching cream (no particular brand. I use Armour Etch because I’m familiar with it and it’s worked well for me).
• The manufacturer of the etching cream recommends you use gloves.
• Painter’s tape
• Alcohol

This post contains affiliate links to some of the products I used in this project.  If you buy an item from one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Here is What You Do

First clean the glass with alcohol, then dry. This is important so the vinyl will adhere to the glass well and not allow any of the etching cream to seep under.

Next, tape off the area you’d like etched and place your vinyl letters or design in the center of the taped off area.  I use the tool that came with my Silhouette Cameo to smooth down the edges and make use it’s tight.  You can use a plastic knife…they work well!

Apply a thick layer of etching cream to the glass in the taped off area. (Check the manufacturer for processing time.)

Rinse with warm water – use stainless steel or plastic container to rinse, the cream will damage porcelain.  Finally, remove the tape and vinyl letter/design and enjoy your etched glass containers! (I know, I know…I need a manicure! )

To cut costs, I reuse my etching cream!  I use a plastic spoon to scoop it back into the jar.  Just be careful not to lift the tape of vinyl.

Aren’t they lovely!

I paint my Anchor Hocking lids and protect them with polyurethane! If not, they will rust when exposed to repeated washing. Check back to see the finished product when I reveal my completed, dressed shelves!