What is sandblasting?

Sandblasting uses abrasives and forced air to permanently transfer images, designs and words onto glass, stone, granite, marble, brick, wood and metal.

These materials, called 'substrates,' are covered in a vinyl or rubber resist before sandblasting begins. Using a graphic design program, resists are cut with the image to be sandblasted. Resists both protect the substrate and guide the sandblaster in their work. The combination of abrasive size, resist thickness and air pressure are all important to the final outcome. These three elements are constantly evaluated and adjusted by the sandblaster throughout the sandblasting process. The same image can look very different depending on the substrate and the sandblasting technique used. To learn more about techniques and effects, visit our glossary. [link to: glossary portion of page]

Can tempered glass be sandblasted?

Yes. Tempered, or 'safety glass', commonly found in homes and commercial buildings can be sandblasted.

Are there limitations to the text or image that can be sandblasted?

There are very few limitations. Text can be of any size and patterns are only limited by your imagination. We can duplicate existing sandblasting, create new patterns, or use images you've already designed.

How can I protect my sandblasted investment?

Our proprietary surface protectant can help protect your sandblasted glass by providing a barrier between the porous sandblasted surface and potential blemishes. The protectant seals the sandblasting, makes it easy to maintain and gives the glass a satin finish. We apply our surface protectant as part of our sandblasting service, and it can be applied easily afterwards for years of protection.

Why 'on-site' sandblasting?

Our on-site sandblasting capabilities give you the ability to sandblast installed entryways, doors, displays or other surfaces without the hassle of disassembly or transport. Our professionals maintain tight containment and leave your residence, home or business clean and dust-free.

What makes Class Glass different?

Simply put, our expertise and passion. We have more than 10 years' of sandblasting experience and we love what we do. This translates into an eye for perfection and personalized approach for every client, every job, every time.

How do I begin my project with Class Glass?

Give us a call or send us an email. You'll discuss your goals, environment and project timeline with a dedicated project manager who will be with you from conception to completion. With the dimensions of your end product in mind, you can select images from our design gallery one of your own images, or we'll create one from scratch.

Technique glossary

Abstract images: Sandblasting that uses key parts of an image to suggest a photograph or recreation, without creating a true, 'realistic' depiction.

Color etching: A proprietary technique that lends color to sandblasted glass.
Class Glass has a palate of colors that will not fade or stain from |
outdoor conditions or cleaners.

Combination application: Using several sandblasting applications to create a unique outcome

First surface: Sandblasting patterns in glass on the same side as the foot traffic. Pattern then reads correctly to the trafficked side of the surface.

Half tones: A type of surface etching. Can be used on glass, granite and marble to depict photos. Photo negatives are set up in DPI and resists are prepared using dark room capabilities (see FAQs).

LED lights: Lights used to enhance or give color to glass without the use of color etching

Negative carve: For stone, sandblasting away the stone except for the image you want to be seen. Also known as a relief.

Negative etch: A type of surface etching. For glass, sandblasting all parts of a design except for the pattern lines, lending privacy when desired. On granite or marble, removing polished surface with the exception of the pattern so that the remaining contrast produces an image.

Opaquing: Sandblasting entire glass surface to give privacy

Positive carve: All substrates, achieving depth to convey an image. In glass, often referred to as floater. Most common application in stone, granite, marble and pavers.

Positive etch: A type of surface etching. For glass, sandblasting only the pattern lines or text, leaving the remaining surface area of the glass clear. On granite or marble, sandblasting surface where pattern exists to remove surface polish so that remaining contrast produces image.

Second surface: Sandblasting patterns in glass on the side away from traffic. Pattern then reads correctly to the trafficked side of the surface.

Shade blasting:. In glass, shade blasting uses different levels of opacity to depict an image or images

Stage carving: Sandblasting that uses varying levels of depth to depict image in three dimensions. Glass can be stage carved in both first and second surfaces in combination. 

Surface etch: Can be either positive, negative or half-tone. For glass, surface etching produces a frosted appearance. Surface etching is the only technique used on tempered glass. For granite and marble, sandblasting to remove surface polish. May also be used on stone along with color fill-in for additional contrast.

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