How to Make Etched Wine Glasses With Constellation Patterns

Looking for a unique party favor for your guests? Customize your party glassware with the zodiac sign of each of your guests or any familiar celestial body.

Photo by: Sam Zachrich

Sam Zachrich

A brilliant conversation starter at a celestial cocktail party is a special glass to help your guests sip their way to a starry evening. Using etching cream, each glass can be customized with your guests’ zodiac signs. The glass also makes a great party favor or gift. 

Photo by: Sam Zachrich

Sam Zachrich

Tools and Materials:

  • rubber gloves
  • washi tape
  • wine glass
  • glass etching cream
  • printed constellation shape for template

Step 1: Determine Designs

Decide on a design for each of the wine glasses. Either draw the desired design or print out an image to be traced. The etching cream is time sensitive, so it is helpful to trace an image instead of drawing from scratch on the wine glass. With the desired image printed, decide where it will be placed on the glass. Once the placement is decided, use washi tape to attach the image to the inside of the glass. 

Photo by: Sam Zachrich

Sam Zachrich

Step 2: Prep Materials

When using etching cream, it is important to follow all safety precautions. Wear rubber gloves and avoid all contact with skin. Do this in a well-ventilated area and near a water source. Twist the plastic cover on the needle applicator and remove the cap from the blue cream bottle. Attach the needle applicator to the top of the bottle. Do not shake the bottle. 

Step 3: Apply Etching Cream

Squeeze the bottle of etching cream onto a paper towel to start the flow. Then use the applicator to slowly trace the design onto the glass. Move your hand as steady as possible to get even lines. Leave the cream on the glass for 1-2 minutes, following the directions on the packaging. If left on the glass longer, the etching cream will start to expand and make the design less precise. 

Photo by: Sam Zachrich

Sam Zachrich

Step 4: Rinse

Use warm water to wash off the cream from the surface of the glass. Remove the taped-on design from the inside of the glass. Be sure to clean the applicator with warm water as well, if it is not cleaned properly it can dry and clog the needle for future use.

Photo by: Sam Zachrich

Sam Zachrich

Step 5: Get the Wine

Raise a glass to your starry success!

Next Up

How to Make Ugly Sweater Wine Charms

Hosting an ugly sweater party this holiday season? Make these adorable mini-sweater charms so your guests can keep track of their cocktail or wine glass. 

How to Make Shibori-Dyed Christmas Ornaments

Learn how to add a touch of celestial indigo to your holiday decor.

How to Make Homemade Glass Cleaner

This easy DIY glass cleaner will clean your windows, glass stovetop, mirrors and more.

How to Cut Glass

Replacing a broken window pane? Making a picture frame? Learning how to make your own stained glass? Wanting to cut glass bottles? With a few simple tools, anyone can learn how to cut pieces of glass.

How to Frost Glass and Other Ways to Make Windows More Private

Wish you could turn transparent glass into opaque glass? Whether it's for privacy or style, or if you're a homeowner or a renter, and no matter your budget, we've got ideas, tips and product suggestions to help you do it.

How to Make Mosaic Stained Glass Art

Make an easy stained glass art piece using colored glass, a glass cutter and grout.

How to Make Upcycled Mason Jar Sea Glass Lanterns

If you're looking for the perfect piece to complete an outdoor space or boho lounge, you will “knot” be disappointed by this thrifty DIY.

How to Make a Stained Glass Kaleidoscope

Use mirrors, glass and faceted beads to create a stunning kaleidoscope.

How to Make Stained Glass Art

Create a distinctive stained glass design to dress up any window.

How to Throw a DIY Glass Etching Party

Want to gather the gang to customize champagne flutes, beautify beer mugs or even upgrade simple glass vases? Artist Christine Tischio of TurnstyleART and Kristen Scalia of Kanibal & Co. share their smart tips for DIY glass etching with personalized stencils. 

More from:

Holiday Countdown

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.