Why have a generic glass block project when you can have a one of kind design? Many people know that block come in wavy designs and can be used for a window, shower, or wall, but they don't realize you can customize your blocks with unique images and patterns to have a personalized look at an affordable price.
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With the use of a sealed beam laser process intricate details, designs, and patterns can be etched into the glass surface to turn an ordinary project into something special. This process can be used to create a structural window or wall, directional sign or even a personalized glass gift. Learn 5 steps on how to take advantage of the laser etching option.
Glass Floating Shelves
Step 1 - Determine where you want to use the etched glass block - What's unique about etched blocks is their ability to be used as a structural building element for a window, wall, or as a gift or award for a friend, neighbor, or team.
To create an etched glass block window think through where the product will be used. The most popular uses include basement, bathroom and kitchen windows. Most finished basement windows put the etched glass design on the inside so it can be enjoyed while watching television in a man den or recreation room. Some of the images chosen have been replicas of sporting interests, teams, hobbies, pets and floral patterns. Bathroom windows can add a nice interior design touch by either mirroring or contrasting the surrounding style of the room. A popular use in kitchens is to play off either the architectural theme of the room (for example a Traditional, Tuscan, or Contemporary design) or to go with a fruit or vegetable theme into the blocks.
An etched glass block wall can be an exciting place to put an entire mural over a grouping of blocks or spot in individual blocks. For mural applications it is preferable to use smaller joints between the blocks so the design in the image appears as one. Walls are popular for waiting rooms and lobbies to include a corporate logo and to move light through the interior of the office or in partition or shower walls for a private residence.
Laser etching a bank, vase or solid block also makes a unique gift. Popular uses include weddings, anniversaries, baby showers and for awards. Any combination of text and image can be included in the blocks with either custom or stock designs. The vases make nice centerpieces for events, and the banks make excellent gifts for kids.
Step 2 - Do you want a custom image or standard pattern - For personalized gifts, awards, logos, or wall murals the custom image is the obvious choice. In many cases though a stock image will capture the look and not require an image from a customer. In the stock series there is a Contemporary Group of patterns with designs called Hypnotic, Frank Lloyd Wright, Psychedelic, and Pentagon. An entire Floral Series and Traditional Series is a nice fit with more conservative decorating. The Earth Series has patterns with sunbursts, raindrops, butterfly leaves, and pavers for either outdoor or indoor applications. If you're a sports or pet lover there is several choices to choose from in the Hobby and Pet Lovers Series.
Step 3 - For a glass block window or wall should you use a single or multiple block pattern? Since block murals are laser etched together as one assembly (so the design continues from one block to another) it is best to have the joints between the blocks closer together for window or wall applications. With this fact in mind it's important to consider the material that will be used to join the blocks in conjunction with the choice of whether a single block or multiple block etched design will make the most sense. With the single blocks you can create a stripe through the wall, a checker board pattern of blocks, or just randomly insert the etched designs in the window wall.
Step 4 - Consider using color glass block or dichroic glass units - For additional style consider adding color or mirrored finished dichroic glass to a window, wall or shower design. Colors for the blocks are virtually endless and even the ends, corners, and angle blocks can have etching and coloring combined. Dichroic glass appears like a reflective mirror finish on the blocks and the light is both reflected back and transmitted through the block. When you change your viewing angle on the dichroic units the colors actually appear to change.
Step 5 - Determine the best method to install the window, wall, shower or directional sign- There are several methods used for glass block installations. Probably the hardest way to install is block by block since it requires the highest skills level and takes the most time. A more common installation method now is with the use of prefabricated glass block panels. Pre-made wall or window sections can be constructed with or without vinyl integral spacers between the blocks. The vinyl stack spacing system provides increased wall rigidity and permits the use an anchor to tie the panel to a surrounding wall(s). Vinyl frames can also be used with the windows to provide a nailing flange (or fin) which makes the block installation much easier in framed openings. Consult a glass block specialty fabricator for the best method to use for your particular project.
Now that you're equipped with these 5 steps you're ready to design your own etched glass block window, wall, shower or gift.
Etched Glass Block For a Window Wall Or Gift - The Possibilities Are Endless
Glass Floating Shelves
Nov 29, 2011 16:16:31
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