Sandblaster Blaster

sandblaster blaster

Sandblasting Beer Mugs

Almost any household nowadays would have beer mugs as part of its daily glassware use. Most people keep their mugs chilled, ready to be taken out and enjoyed while unwinding after a hard day's work, or to catch up with family members and friends.

Wouldn't it be great to own beer mugs which have your own emblem? You feel like a tavern owner, plus they are great as display items in your cabinet when not in use. One such way is to use the sandblasting method.

If you have time to spare or need a project to do with your family members or friends, sandblasting your own mugs of beer is a great way to spend an afternoon or two.

Sandblasting is a form of etching which utilizes a coarse, sand-like exterior to etch or engrave designs directly into glass. It does take a little practice and finesse, but once you are adept, sandblasting is a wonderful method to add character and panache to all forms of glassware.

To start, you will require beer mugs, caustic compounds such as coconut and walnut shells, powdered abrasives, air compressor, safety, design masks and goggles, vice grip, dust collector and a siphon-feed blaster gun.

The first thing you need to do is shield unetched areas using a design mask sturdy enough to endure the blasting process. Once you decide on a pattern, take away the masking, and if your patterns necessitate etching which is multi-layered, the masking should be removed according to work junctures.

Place your beer mug firmly using a vice grip and fashion a dust collector. The process of engraving will generate many remains, so you want to ensure an immaculate working area.

The eyes and face must be protected at all times, so use a face mask and goggles. The face mask will also ensure that you do not accidentally take in debris while working.

The engraving process begins when you use the siphon-feed blaster gun which is motorized by an air compressor. Siphon-feed guns works like an automated airbrush, emanating a strong blast of debris through its nozzle.

The sandblaster gun should be continually employed over the primary facet of your pattern, and for multiple layers, remove the masking and add shading and angles as your design dictates. Do this meticulously to avoid accidents.

Once this is done, clean the debris with a wet cloth and remove the protective mask (on areas which are not etched). Scrutinize your workmanship to ensure it is exactly what you want it to be.

Repeat with as many mugs as you like, preferably a set.

With some practice, you might want to present you loved ones with their own sandblasted beer mugs, complete with their initials, photos, birth dates, horoscopes, favorite pet and many more. Design choices are endless.

Remember to wash the sandblasted mugs in lukewarm water and leave out to dry after wiping with clean cloth. Make sure excess debris has been successfully removed and surface is smooth.

About the Author

DiscountMugs.com is a large distribution company based in Miami, Florida. They are web-based and factory-direct which allows them to keep prices lower than the rest of the competition. They also have a huge selection of glassware from beer mugs and champagne flutes to shot glasses and drinking glasses.