What is etch-coating?

What is etch-coating?

Etch-coating (also known as imitation etching) is basically the same as printing. If you want your logo printed with an engraving look, we use etch-coating as a printing technique. That is also what etching-coating is: printing with an engraving look.

So it is not the same as glass engraving. Etch-coating uses normal transfer printing or screen printing. The only difference between normal printing and etch-coating is the colour. With etch-coating, the logo is printed 'just' in grey.

So etch-coating is actually the same as normal printing, only the printing is always in grey. This gives etch-coating a nice engraving look, but retains the advantages of normal printing. Read more about it in the blogs on transfer printing and screen printing.

Why choose etching coating?

1. Luxurious look

Etch-coating creates a chic and stylish look. This is especially useful for businesses that want a professional and luxurious look. Think, for example, of a restaurant that wants its own logo on glasses, or a company looking for nice gifts for customers. The subtle finish makes the glassware look exclusive without being too eye-catching.

2. Subtle finish

Engraving involves removing a layer from the glass, creating a tactile relief. With etch-coating, this does not happen. The print sits on the glass, but is smooth to the touch. This means the shape of the glass or crockery does not change and the product still has a chic look. So it looks beautiful without actually being engraved.

3. Durability

Etching coating is very durable. The print is 100% dishwasher-safe on crockery and to some extent on glassware: 300-500 washes. The luxurious look is retained for a long time. Even in daily use, the design remains clearly visible. This makes etch-coating a smart choice for glasses and tableware that are used frequently, such as in restaurants and cafés. Also, if you are looking for a lasting beautiful gift, this technique is a good option.

What is the difference between engraving and etch-coating?

1. Technique

With engraving, a layer is actually cut out of the glass. With etch-coating, a logo is stuck onto the glass or tableware and fired in the oven. This ensures that the logo remains on the product.

2. Delivery time

The delivery time for etch-coating is 3-4 weeks on average. For engraving, the delivery time is 1-2 weeks.

3. Appearance

Etch-coating naturally looks slightly different from engraving. If a cold drink ends up in an engraved glass, the logo can sometimes fade a little. This is due to condensation flowing into the engraving, causing the logo to fade. This does not happen with etch-coating. With etch-coating, the logo remains clearly visible. So this is another advantage of etch-coating.

4. Larger logos

With etch-coating, the logo can be printed much larger than with engraving. This gives you more options, which is advantageous.

Is etch-coating for you?

Etch-coating is a great way to give glasses and crockery a luxurious and professional look. The technique creates a stylish look without damaging the surface of the product. It is durable, easy to clean and an affordable solution if you want a luxurious look. Whether you run a restaurant, are looking for a unique gift or want to personalise your own tableware, etch-coating is a smart choice. Want to know more about the possibilities? Find out today what etch-coating can do for your products!