Etching on slate is a quick and easy DIY project. Making personalized slate cheese boards, coasters or signs are a perfect way to dress up your entertainment pieces or to give as a gift.
One of my most popular posts last year was one for DIY Etched Mason Jar Mugs. I’ve done several glass etching projects since then and I’ve been wanting to try the process on slate to see if it would work similarly. I’m so happy to say, IT DOES!
Supplies:
- Slate cheese board or coasters
- Etching cream
- Stencil(s)
- small craft paint brush
*Some supplies links may be linking to affiliate links on amazon.com or other retailers.
1) Wash your slate to get any debris off of it. Dry thoroughly before applying your stencil.
2) Adhere your stencil to your slate. I made my stencil using my Silhouette Cameo. I used contact paper, but you could also use vinyl or other stencils that are sticky on one side. (I know you’re all surprised that I chose a monogram!) You’ll want to press down all over your stencil and try to seal stencil to your slate so that the etching cream won’t bleed underneath it.
3) Apply the glass etching cream with a thick even layer inside your stencil. Be careful not to touch anywhere with it that you don’t want etched. I used my finger to apply it. The directions say to use a paint brush and wear gloves. I find I get a more even application with my finger, but proceed at your own risk. I have also used a paint brush with good success. My etching cream has discolored over time. This is completely normal and it does not affect its ability to work its magic.
4) Let etching cream sit for 10-15 minutes and then wash off completely under running water. You may have to rub off the etching cream to help remove it fully. After patting dry, I repeated the process a second time just to make sure it was fully covered and even.
5) Remove your stencil and wash your slate again.
6) Dry completely and you’re ready to use your new personalized piece!
I already tested it out tonight by having some cheese and crackers for dinner (not that uncommon of an occurrence at our house!)
Great tutorial!I’d like to make this, but I worry – is the finished product definitely food safe considering the chemicals within the etching cream?
With a thorough washing with soap and water I would think it’s fine. I’ve used mine several times. It’s a good idea to read the label on your individual product though.
Thanks Erin x
Where did you get your slate? I want a piece roughly the same dimensions for a possible Christmas present for my mom (the cheeseboard seems too wide and not long enough). Also, does the slate chip at all? How well do you think it would hold paint? Thanks Erin!
I got my slate at World Market. I have not had any issues with chipping. Are you planning to use for food? If so I’m not sure it would hold up well to washing (or be food safe). If it’s not intended for food and is just decorative, paint would likely adhere fine as long as it’s not polished slate.
Thanks Erin! My idea is to make the slate into a decorative piece. I want to etch a word or design onto it as well as paint it. I’m new to the DIY world, so if I wanted this to be able to be hung on the wall, how would you recommend I secure it? Picture hooks might be tough because the slate isn’t very thick.
Also, what are the dimensions of your slate (LxWxH)?
Mine is about 12 x 6 x 0.5. They sell one that is 12 x 18 as well. Depending on the size of your slate, maybe a plate or platter hanger? Send me a picture or share a link when you’re done with your project, I’d love to see it!
Love this idea! We’re considering this for our wedding groomsmen gifts. I’m new to using my silhouette. Can you tell me how you made your stencil? It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
~Megan