Sand-Carving Process
Picture a glass trophy that has a design etched or engraved in its surface. Sand-carving, also known as sandblasting, is the process used to produce that effect. It is one of the simplest and most accessible methods for personalizing or decorating glass, crystal, marble, stone and other surfaces. And, with a low entry cost, sand-carving is surprisingly affordable.
The sand-carving process:
The sand-carving process is relatively straightforward. First, a photomask is applied to the surface that’s being carved. Then, an abrasive, sand-like material (such as aluminum oxide) is propelled onto that surface. The abrasive carves the surface only in the open areas of the stencil, while the areas covered by the photomask remain smooth and spotless. As a result, the impression made in the glass, crystal or stone cleanly follows the pattern of the photomask. Anyone who has the right sand-carving equipment can easily produce intricate, three-dimensional designs on glass, crystal, marble, stone and other surfaces. The finished product can be kept for personal enjoyment, or sold for a profit.
