- 1
Modern epoxy materials blend seamlessly into cracks in glass.Cracked Up image by Fisky from Fotolia.com
Locate a specialized bonding agent designed for use in repairing crystal. Epoxy designed for glass can be found at glass repair shops, some home improvement stores and at specialized retail locations or online suppliers. Using traditional glue or super glue is not effective as they tend to leave residue behind and are not formulated properly for use on glass crystal. Modern epoxy is designed to be optically the same as the glass molecules, so the repairs blend in seamlessly. They are also much stronger than traditional glue and are designed to seep into a crack to re-bond the glass while remaining invisible. - 2
Modern epoxy can repair a simply crack or many broken pieces.splintering, broken wine glass image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
Prepare the epoxy solution according the the manufacturer's instructions. Some epoxy comes in a multi-part formula that must be combined prior to use. Check the label instructions to ensure you are using the substance in a setting that provides appropriate temperatures without hot or cold extremes that may alter the effectiveness of the product. - 3
Use a lint-free rag or cloth to gently clean the cracked area.Old duster image by Scott Latham from Fotolia.com
Clean the area of the crack with acetone to remove any residue or oils that may cause difficulty with the epoxy adhering to the surface of the crystal. Wipe the area with a dry cloth to remove any trace of moisture and dust. Apply the epoxy to the cracked area. Make sure to apply enough of the product that it can seep into the entire crack. Wipe away any excess epoxy with a rag or toothpick. Ensure that the epoxy is level with the surface of the glass. Set the vase aside and allow the repair to dry according to the epoxy package instructions. - 4
Use a fine grit sandpaper and a light touch.sandpapier image by Thomas Aumann from Fotolia.com
Using a fine grit sandpaper and a gentle touch, carefully sand away any epoxy residue that might be present on the surface of the crystal. Be sure the repair has completely set and the epoxy is fully dry before sanding. Since the epoxy dries clear and bonds to the crystal molecules, the repair should be virtually undetectable. Wipe the area again with the cloth immersed in acetone to clean off any final traces of residue. Finish the repair by wiping the vase with a clean polishing cloth.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
