I am wanting to learn to etch on glass with a dremel rotary tool.

Does anyone know what the steps for this are?

The bits I might need?

And any where I might could find some designs,

Any help would be great.. thanks angie

The Dremel web site (http://www.dremel.com/en-us/projectsandcommunity/projects/Pages/detail.aspx?pcpid=10) has an article on etching glass that covers bits, technique, and includes additional resource recommendations. Google is your friend too.

What kind of glass is it that you are wanting to be etching on, please? It would also be helpful to know that.

What kind of glass is it that you are wanting to be etching on, please? It would also be helpful to know that.


I just want to start on some drinking glasses, and maybe some vases.

Hi, Angie!

Thank you for your reply! I would suggest practicing on some items that are of no particular value in order to get used to doing the etching.

What is quoted below, is from the following site. Etching a Glass Bottle (http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf475077.tip.html)


Etching a Glass Bottle

It's easy to give store-bought bottles a "homemade touch" by etching them with a special message or design, then filling them with something your recipient will love.
Tools & Materials
You'll need a Dremel rotary tool, a bottle, clamp or slip-free rubber mat, a soft cloth, glass cleaner, paper, pencil, permanent marker and masking tape to complete this simple project.

The Steps
1. Sketch your message or design on a piece of paper or clip out an image from a magazine.

2. Cut it out to create a stencil and secure it with masking tape to the glass bottle. Draw your design onto the bottle using a permanent marker.

3. Gently clamp the bottle to a table or use a rubber mat to provide a slip-free work surface.

4. Wearing eye protection, use the Dremel rotary tool along with an silicon carbide grindstone (#84922, included in Dremel XPR rotary tool kit sold below) to etch over your permanent marker design. Use the tip of the bit to etch into the surface of the glass.

5. Clean the surface of the bottle with a soft cloth and glass cleaner when finished etching.

By Kathy


RE: Etching a Glass Bottle

That's an interesting idea... I was thinking about doing that myself but I have a slightly easier way to do it.

Go to the craft store and get Glass Etching Medium.. It comes in a spray bottle.. Use that stencil you made or buy one and tape to the bottle in the position you want it.. Spray it and let dry... Remove the stencil and wha la! Etched Glass Bottle..

Your way is cool too. Your way is better for fine detailing and making your own designs.
Thanks for the idea-Take Care-Xerophyia