Make Your Own Polka-dot Glassware

Fixing the stencil

Tape the stencils to the glassware in a pleasing pattern. Simple outlines of circles were used on these glasses to give the random polka-dot effect.

Tip: Remember that whatever the etching cream covers will be opaque in the finished design - so here the etching cream is going to be applied to the centre of the open circles.

Apply the glass etching cream

With any exposed skin protected, apply a thick layer of glass etching cream over the stencils using a small paintbrush.

Tip: Be sure to cover the glass generously with the cream - a thin coat will give a patchy finish.
Leave for five minutes (or according to the manufacturer's instructions.)

Rinse and dry

When the required time is up, rinse the cream off the glassware under running water.
Keep your gloves on and make sure you remove all the cream residue.

Tip: Some glass etching cream is reusable, so read the instructions carefully. You might be able to carefully scrape it back into its container rather than rinsing it off to save it for future projects.
Remove the stencils.
Enjoy your stylish new glassware!