Are you an avid glass artist looking for new marketing ideas? Guess what! You have just hit the right link. In this blog, we will share a fascinating idea for you to demonstrate your glass art skills.
*Drumrolls* ‘Glass Decals’.
Know everything about glass fusing decals, how to use them, and the uses of glass decals on windows. Without any further ado, let’s start the blog.
What are Glass Decals?
In simple words, glass decals are stickers that can be pasted on plain glass. These stickers come in different designs, images, writings, graphics, and more. It is a strong adhesive material in the form of a design on durable vinyl sheets.
These are most commonly used for windows to either perk up the plain glass or provide privacy. Glass fusing is done to transfer the design from the sticker to the glass surface.
How to Use Glass Decals?
Using glass decals is not a child’s play. Read this step-by-step procedure to learn the correct way to use glass decals.
What Do We Need?
- Soft tissue paper
- Scissors
- Clean warm water in a clean bowl
- Small wiper
- Smooth, lint-free fabric
- Piece of glass or window
- Kiln
What’s The Process?
- Step 1 – Clean the surface before beginning. Lay a clean towel on a flat surface. Place all the above-mentioned tools on the towel.
- Step 2 – Clean the glass or window using warm water.
- Step 3 – Peel off the wax protective sheet from the decals.
- Step 4 – With the help of scissors, precisely cut out the decals from the sheet.
- Step 5 – Put these cut-outs in warm water for half a minute.
- Step 6 – Take the decal out of the water and wait for a few seconds. With your fingers, gently slide it away from the backing paper.
- Step 7 – Slide the decal directly on the glass surface without flipping it over. The printed side should remain facing upwards.
- Step 8 – Hold the decal firmly and then use the little wiper over it to get rid of excess water and air bubbles. To do it the right way, start from the center and move the wiper outwards. Slowly rotate the glass to remove air bubbles and water from all the edges.
- Step 9 – Take a dry lint-free fabric and work it on the decal from center to outward edges. Use very gentle pushing motions.
- Step 10 – Leave the decal to dry overnight and then fuse it according to the advised temperature.
Glass Fusing Instructions:
First, determine the decals and glass you are purchasing. Fusing can be done in low and high temperatures depending on the decals. Low glass fusing decals are fired between 1034-1074 degrees Fahrenheit. High glass fusing decals are fired between 1300-1425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Other than temperature, keep in mind that some materials need to be fused very slowly and gradually. It is also very important to maintain ventilation for a perfect silver or gold finish.
Different Uses of Glass Decals on Windows
Glass decals have multiple uses, but window decals top the list. These have been in use for a long time, however recently the art has become better, tidier, and more precise.
You can even select any shape, color, or design. Read some of the common ways of using decals on windows.
- Privacy – Window decals on one side of the window can help ensure privacy for businesses on roadsides, banks, real estate offices, jewelry shops, dentists, and more. Inside and outside window decals, both work fine. These ensure the privacy of sensitive business workings while keeping the business in the eyes of the passersby.
- Scannable QR Codes – Covid times have opened the way for a lot of technology. Scannable QR code window decals are now found at every business’ door or window. These help in accessing the business’ website, products, payment method, and more. Customers can also check offers and schemes by scanning these QR codes.
- Engaging Illusionary Decals – Optical illusionary window decals engage the passers-by. These can be fused on the glass windows of businesses.
- Advertisements – Window decals are a great way to advertise the business on the go. For example, window decals on your car’s window tell about your brand and its product.
To Summarize…
So, now you have one more thing to experiment with your glass art skills. This can definitely be fun and helpful if you are working on window decals. Just ensure your safety in the fusing part of the process.
At art glass supplies, you can procure the best kilns, decals, glass, and much more that you need for your project.