DIY ground glass - How to leave lines.

[Lachlan 717]

No issue with knowing how to grind glass. That’s straight forward.

But I have no idea how to leave patterns/lines/cross-hairs on the GG after this.

I’m not really interested in using a pencil; rather, permanent lines are required…

Any advice?

[Tin Can]

Paint



Only Kodak Master View 8X10 coated the GG and left open glass

[Fred L]

do you need/want the lines scratched or will a very fine pint Sharpie suffice ?

[BrianShaw]

I generally use pencil on the ground side but since you don't like that, another alternative is Chartpak graphic chart line tape. That worked well on shiny side.

https://chartpakstore.com/collection...ak-matte-tapes

[Jim C.]

If it's black lines, use a rapidograph ( anyone who did drafting remember them ? ) you can get very fine
tips for them, the down side is that the ink will eventually wear off.

https://www.kohinoorusa.com/rapidograph

I haven't the foggiest idea how to do frosted lines on a frosted surface.
Off the top of my head is to etch the lines after the glass is ground with hydroflouric acid
which is NASTY stuff.

[erie patsellis]

I've lightly scribed lines with a tungsten scribe in the past, emphasis on lightly...

[Lachlan 717]

Some interesting thoughts here - thanks.

I seem to remember that, to a certain extent, putting frosted tape on frosted glass tends to make a clear line.

I’ve still got my Rotrings from University days, so could try them…

Etching would be a last alternative I think.

[Lachlan 717]

I've lightly scribed lines with a tungsten scribe in the past, emphasis on lightly...

Thanks.

What was the end result like? A brighter frosted line over the GG?

[jnantz]

No issue with knowing how to grind glass. That’s straight forward.

But I have no idea how to leave patterns/lines/cross-hairs on the GG after this.

I’m not really interested in using a pencil; rather, permanent lines are required…

Any advice?

Hi Lachlan717
I used to make and sell these but you can make on on your own, it's not hard ...
draw the pattern you want/grid / lines/markings for different aspect ratios
Xerox it it on a sheet of mylar and slide THAT on top of your ground glass.
I've been using one I made 30 years ago.
good luck!
John

[Ron in Arcata California]

Here is a different way to get it done. Find someone with a hobby laser and it will etch the glass perfectly.
I did a quick test and ran the laser a bit too hot but with a little practice even I could nail it.