subject: Erosion Amped Up: Sand Etched Glass As Design [print this page] There are places so hot in Texas that hell leases space. Winds can howl and dust can fly. In Texas insulation is required for homes and offices built under the beating sun. Observing the landscape, it becomes apparent that the winds have whipped up the sand and sent it into the cliffs, cutting away shapes in the a million ways. Blasting sand on glass is a way to texture windows and reduce the greenhouse effect of glass.
Blasting of glass with fine sand or other particles such as walnut shells or slag creates a smoky semi opaque quality. When light hits etched glass a frosty white translucent image can be seen on the other side. The light coming through becomes diffused light, light that spreads in many directions. This softens the light and turns stark rays of sun into soft illumination. It also reflects a percentage of the sunlight to reduce the heat transfer bringing down energy costs. While this may not dramatically reduce energy cost by itself, it lends a hand while offering elegant and artistic possibilities.
Architects use etched glass to creatively when planning well lit spaces that require privacy. Fully frosted panes of glass can be used in interior spaces creating walls that offer privacy while offering a dramatic effect that can increase the feel of spaciousness in a room. Combining frosted panes with lighting effects can produce a room with a glowing wall, making a stunning appeareance.
Many restaurants use etched glass between booths with a lit rail. The illuminated panels create light and privacy in an dramatic fashion. For ground floor offices on busy streets half frosted panes can be used. It offers privacy when seated at a desk, while offering views of the sky. Etched glass can be used for bath windows, shower stalls and bedroom windows.
Artists have discovered etching glass to be a vibrant art form. With the correct tools blasting glass can create intricate patterns and elaborate forms. Many artists enjoy the quality and depth of the images. Beautiful bodies can seem to glow and float in space. With colored lights the frosted etching can be painted with colors. Flowers etched in glass have a special appeal when combined with well directed colored lights that can bring the bloom to life. Agents of erosion have long been the nemesis of buildings, cars, and landscapes. Erosion has shaped canyons and cliffs in spectacular ways for all of time. Watching the light dance of the Grand Canyon, or seeing the shapes in Monument Valley is an easy way to to appreciate erosive force. Turning some of the tools of erosion, wind and sand, into tools for art has produced astonishing artwork. Glass etching has been used to create energy efficiency, privacy and art.
