Sand Blasting

[StevenB]

Who has a sand blasting glass engraving set up?

For those that do, does it work well, is it easy to do, and would you recommend it as a good way of engraving glass?

I'm doing increasing amounts of glassware & wondering if there's a quicker way than with the rotated composite diamond.

Also, can it be used to engrave other materials, or is it glass only?

 

I had a demo of the crystal galleries system at Trophex & am wondering if it is to be my next investment or not.

 

All advice from those with experience of the system is appreciated.

Thanks.

[Dean]

Just to add to Steven's post..

 

Do you need to replace any parts through 'wear' like you do with glass diamonds?

[petercoulson]

From my memory of sandblasters the nozzle is tungsten lined but still wears out, if you periodically turn it it lasts a long long time otherwise most parts are not wearing parts.

[ANDY]

i used to use one mainly for cleaning up components

 

one time i made up some thin rubber letters as a mask and sandblasted a wooden plaque, the background came out kinda rustic looking

then i hand painted the raised letters

 

i'd imagine slate would come out ok too

 

you have to keep an eye on the compressors water trap as moisture can clog up the nozzle

 

the only parts that got replaced were the gloves after many years

 

and you have to top up the sand

 

we also stuck some thin clear plastic on the inside of the window to protect it

 

 

speed wise i think a laser engraver just pips sandblasting but some argue the blasted finish is better

[martindare]

I use a sandblaster for all my glass engraving and have had it for about 10 years. The only part I have had to replace is the nozzle and the media (sand).

 

I generally only use the sandblaster for glass, but I have successfully engraved metal trophies to do a logo. I haven't tried wood or slate but would like to have a go at some point, I think a different grade of media would be required.

 

I do always get good results with the sandblaster, and I think takes time to learn but as with anything, practice (and a few mistakes!) makes it quicker.

 

I also have the equipment to make all my own stencils which is very useful.

[Gray]

I have a sandblaster too. I tend not too use it so much these days. 2 reasons... 1, bought a Uni300........2, I don't seem to be able to get filters for it. It is an Easiblaster cabinet and they have shut down. But they are quick and you can get good detail on your engraving. I buy my stencils from Crystal Galleries.

[Satiusreesadimus]

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[kobblers]

I'd love to see a full tutorial on sandblasting.

 

How do you go about creating the stencils and does it involve weeding vinyl?

 

Cheers, Rick.

[Satiusreesadimus]

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[Gray]

I hate that American twang..Why can't they speak properly.

[grahamparker]

I hate that American twang..Why can't they speak properly.

 

 

Like the welsh,you mean.

[Gray]

Yes! ......iechyd da!