Sandblasting Stencils?

I am looking for someone to make stencils for my Sandblasting Machine on Glass - any ideas?

Milly's reply:
This is an interesting question, as sandblasting stencils are available in various different forms.
You might be looking for someone with a 'plotter cutter' if you have a linear design in digital format that you want a computer to cut out from sticky-backed vinyl for you. If this is the case, any company that deals with either sign-making or exhibitions will be able to help you. They'll tell you what format they need your design in.
Alternatively, if you want something that is smaller (up to A4), with a high level of detail, then a photo stencil might be better for you. These use photoresist, which is a material that is photographically exposed and processed and used to resist the sandblast stream.
AICELLO Chemical supply the APM film, but you need access to a UV exposure unit and facilities for pressure washing out the film - you could ask a local screen-printer if they provide the service.
Glass etching and sandblasting yields some fantastic results - I hope this helps you with your project.

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Comments for
Sandblasting Stencils?

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Glass stencils
by: Anonymous

Try this place www.cutting-light.com they are a laser engraving company.

Sand blast stencils
by: Wayne

Try www.crystal-engraving.co.uk they make all types of sandblast stencils for glass from cut vinyl, to photoresists of in various media, I know they supply quite a few glass engravers and stained glass workers. You just email or send artwork and masks are ready in a couple of days normally, hope this helps

Milly says: Thanks for this recommendation, it sounds a good resource for anyone wanting a stencil. If anyone has used this firm, let me know what you think.


Hand made stencils
by: Anonymous

The previous suggestions given are excellent, but you may want to consider that you can easily make the stencils yourself. This of course is based on what it is you're trying to accomplish. It takes a little practice but the results are well worth it. There are a few materials which will allow you to reuse your stencil and then there is the kind that is one time only. Hand made stencils can be accomplished with contact paper and an exacto knife. I have been sandblasting for over 20 years and use a variety of methods, but still go back to the basic way. It just takes a little practice.

Milly's reply: Thanks for your great comments - it's fantastic to get advice from someone with 20years' glass etching and sandblasting experience!

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