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Size and engraving on glass are techniques of cold glass decoration by removal of material. The process of size is close to the principle of wheel engraving but its implementation is different and the decorative objectives are not the same.
Tailor on Glass:
The size is to create on the glass object linear patterns, geometric, flat ribs, facets, bevels, olives, diamonds, festoons, curves, by digging the glass using grinding wheels different templates to get a decor or create a new shape. The wheels are fixed on horizontal lathes driven by a motor. The first step is the “Compassing” (which is not obligatory): with the help of precise technical sketches, landmarks and lines are written in the felt pen on the object. Carefully defined, these grids are the only reference when setting the trim. To dig the crystal, the tailor exerts pressure on his piece by presenting it in front of a diamond wheel. The work is constantly done under a trickle of water, to facilitate the size and avoid the explosion of the crystal overheated by friction. In some cases, a second rubber grinding wheel and pumice will restore transparency (polishing) back into the patterns. For shine (polishing) it is necessary to make another pass with a grinding wheel of felt and cerium oxide.
Glass Engraver:
If size is the ideal setting to give the crystal all its brightness, the engraving brings him an exceptional finery: drawings of great precision, tiny details and refined. We use diamond tip etching: the instrument used is a dentist’s cutter, mounted on a hose acting by a rapid rotation. The engraving is done by producing parallel lines to obtain different shades of white or dotted giving a more delicate. It is thus possible to make inscriptions, drawings, etc … on any support (glass, carafe, bottle of champagne or wine, and also metallic like pewter stands of glass or other). Sandblasting: Sandblasting is the process of grinding and etching the glass by throwing a violent jet of corundum sand on the surface of the glass using an air pistol. The parts to spare are protected by a specific stencil and keep their transparency while the exposed parts become dull. the abrasive, depending on the spray force and the duration, can attack the glass in depth. The work is done in an airtight place to avoid inhalation of dust.
Decorator on Glass:
Size and engraving are so-called “white” techniques, which do not give color to the piece but relief. The decorator, using enamels, will give life to the crystal thanks to a large chromatic palette. He uses his enamels to create contrasts and also silver and gold sheets which he will glue with transparent enamel. The last technique of the decorator on glass is the ring. The ring is a very thick paint applied “tube” that creates relief. By superposition and a skilful mix of colors, leaves and ring, the patterns are delicate and make these pieces unique decorative objects.
