How to (and how not to) use Rust-oleum Mirror effect spray for a traditional painted glass sign

THE LETTER HEAD
18 Feb 202320:49

Summary

TLDRIn this video, Lewis from Letterhead explores the process of creating a mirror reflective sign on glass. He starts by cleaning a 36-inch by 9-inch piece of glass and cutting a reverse stencil for acid etching. After several trials, including a failed attempt at applying mirror spray too thickly, Lewis successfully etches the design and applies a black background color. He then carefully applies mirror spray in thin, even coats, resulting in a unique, textured reflective finish. The video is a detailed tutorial on glass etching and reflective sign making, complete with helpful tips and a demonstration of the learning process.

Takeaways

  • 🎨 The video is a DIY tutorial focused on creating a sign using mirror reflective spray on glass.
  • 🧼 It emphasizes the importance of thoroughly cleaning the glass with soapy water and methylated spirit to avoid residue that can interfere with adhesion.
  • ⚠️ The presenter warns against using Windex or similar products for cleaning as they leave a residue that can prevent materials like vinyl from sticking.
  • πŸ–ΌοΈ The process involves creating a stencil in reverse to be applied to the back of the glass, ensuring the design appears correctly when viewed from the front.
  • πŸ’‘ The use of armor etch, a strong etching cream, is demonstrated for creating the design on the glass, with caution advised due to its potent fumes.
  • 🚫 A mistake is highlighted where excessive application of the mirror spray led to failure, underscoring the need for thin, even coats.
  • 🎭 The video details a method for applying vinyl to glass using application tape and a 'steamroller' technique for smooth application.
  • πŸ–ŒοΈ It showcases the use of Ronan's one-stroke black paint for the background, applied thickly to ensure coverage and prevent show-through.
  • πŸ•’ The tutorial points out the need for patience, as the paint must be dry to a certain extent before the stencil can be removed without damaging the design.
  • ✨ The final result is a unique, mirror-effect sign with a grainy texture, achieved through multiple thin coats of mirror spray and a clear coat lacquer.

Q & A

  • What is the purpose of the video?

    -The purpose of the video is to demonstrate the process of creating a sign using mirror reflective spray on glass.

  • What type of glass is used in the video?

    -A piece of glass that is 36 inches by 9 inches high and 3/16 inches thick is used.

  • Why is it important to clean the glass properly before starting the project?

    -Proper cleaning of the glass is important to remove dirt and prevent residue that could interfere with the adhesion of the vinyl and the mirror spray.

  • Why shouldn't Windex or similar products be used to clean the glass?

    -Windex or similar products should not be used because they leave a residue that can prevent vinyl and the mirror spray from sticking properly.

  • What is the significance of the stencil being in reverse?

    -The stencil needs to be in reverse because it is applied to the back of the glass and viewed from the front, so the design appears correct when viewed normally.

  • What is the etching method used in the video?

    -The etching method used is an acid etch with a product called Armor Etch.

  • What precautionary measures are taken while using the etching cream?

    -The creator takes precautions such as wearing gloves, a long-sleeve shirt, and ensuring good ventilation to minimize exposure to fumes from the etching cream.

  • Why did the first attempt at applying the mirror spray fail?

    -The first attempt failed because the spray was applied too thickly, which caused it to peel up the vinyl and create pools of spray, ruining the application.

  • What is the 'steamroller effect' mentioned in the video?

    -The 'steamroller effect' is a technique used to apply application tape to vinyl by rolling it out flat using a cylindrical object, ensuring it adheres properly without wrinkles.

  • How does the video creator apply the vinyl to the glass?

    -The creator applies the vinyl to the glass using a dry application method, which involves sticking the vinyl with application tape onto the glass and then using a squeegee to secure it before removing the backing paper.

  • What paint is used for the background color, and why was it chosen?

    -Ronan's One Stroke black paint is used for the background color because it works well for the project, providing a thick coat that dries to a non-sticky finish suitable for the mirror spray.

  • What is the final outcome of the mirror spray application?

    -The final outcome is a sign with a black grainy texture that is not fully mirror-like as expected but still aesthetically pleasing.

Outlines

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Mindmap

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Keywords

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Highlights

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Transcripts

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Related Tags
DIY CraftsGlass EtchingMirror SprayStencil MakingVinyl ApplicationCreative ProcessHome DecorArt TutorialCraft TipsLetterhead