Etched Garden Art

Hi All,

Have you seen those fun garden designs with stacked dishes and teacups?  I've always wanted to make some decorations like that for my garden.   So, I've combined some inexpensive glass dishes and etchall® dip 'n etch to create some garden art. 

Here's the result:

Etched Garden Art

First, I went shopping in my local thrift shops and found inexpensive glass pieces like punch cups, saucers, small vases, sundae cups and other assorted pieces.  Here's some of what I found (for 50 cents apiece!).  Look for pieces that you can stack together.

Thrift Store Glass

Next, find a plastic container that will fit your glass.  I used a milk jug cut in half for some and a large salad container for others.

Put the glass in the container and cover with etchall® dip 'n etch.

You may notice that this dish isn't completely covered.  I turned this dish in the liquid to get the full etching, but it's much easier if you can cover the whole dish.  If you do rotate the dish, wear gloves.

Wait about 15 minutes.  It may take less than that depending on the piece.  Check it at 10 minutes.  Then, remove the glass from the etching liquid and rinse well.  I wash them in soap and water to remove all the residue.

Then, I tried to color the glass with some of the paints and inks I had.  I wanted a soft, romantic tint.  I tried a wash of acrylic paint and water, but this just washed right off.  Then, I tried some patina ink full strength.  That was too much color for me.  A little dilution with water created just the right tint for my dishes to give a soft color.  I used a sponge brush to paint the dishes also, as I found a regular paint brush left too many streaks.

Then, I glued my dishes together with an epoxy.  Follow the instructions and allow for good ventilation.  I glued the punch cup on top of the inverted bowl, then glued the vase in the bowl.

Side View

I painted a dowel and slid the vase over it.  You could use plastic or copper pipe for the stand also.  Or, try hanging a teacup and saucer in a macrame sling.  

Here's another view:

Etched Garden Art

You can add a tealight like I did here or fill it with a small plant or even birdseed.

There are so many fun combinations to try; I can't wait to make more!  They will make great gifts, too.  Or, decorations for a wedding - lots of possibilities!

Have fun etching! It's so easy with etchall® dip 'n etch! Use my code TERRYR for a 10% discount!

Terry