I just wanted to verify something before I engrave glass for the first time. I have searched and I see people say to add a layer of dish to the surface of the glass, others do not mention it. From what I have read, the dish soap seems to keep the glass from cracking, but some posts do not mention the reason. I have some salt and pepper shakers that are clear glass that I wanted to try engraving. I just wanted verification if the dish soap is necessary and is there a reason not to use it? Lastly, if dish soap is the way to go, do i just take dish soap (we use Dawn) and just smear it on with your finger or something where you will engrave? Is there a way to make sure that it is not too much?
Great question. I’ve spread a thin layer of dish soap on all my glass engravings and have never been disappointed. The soap helps reduce the spalling and hence reduces the probability of actually cracking the glass. Others recommend a layer of wet paper toweling laid atop the item, and I tried both methods in 2017, haven’t used the wet paper method since.
Is either method absolutely necessary? No, but I’d feel foolish for not taking such a simple precaution and having a piece shatter… YMMV, of course.
thank you very much. So just smear it on with your finger so it just really coats the glass? Also, what setting do you use? i had read 700 speed full power and 340 lpi but also 1000 speed 80 power and 170 lpi. I am not sure what is best settings. I have a pro if that part matters. Thanks, Mike
I’ve never used dish soap. In my experience the big differentiator between spalling and a nice even engrave is settings. Spalling happens if you overpower the engrave. Dial in your settings correctly and it doesn’t seem like dish soap is needed.
As for the correct settings that will depend on your glass. Testing is your best bet. For more info and suggested settings check out #6 here: