Etching
Etching is a form of graffiti where an object is used to scratch graffiti into metal, plastic, and most commonly, glass. Unlike graffiti with paints and markers, etching also referred to as "scratchitti", cannot be cleaned off. It results in a permanent marking that can only be painted over where possible or, in the case of glass or plexiglass, the panel or pane must be replaced.Commonly Used Items for Etching:
Lava rock (most common) Sand paper Pumice stone Knives Keys Scissors Box cutters Exacto knife Tools: screwdriver, drill bits, etc. A "scribe" is a graffiti term for a metal etching tool
Acid Etching
Acid etching is a form of graffiti that has started to show up in the Lower Mainland. It is graffiti that is marked on glass or plexiglass with an acid containing craft etching product, found in craft stores. The graffiti is put on with the container. It will not show immediately, but will burn into the glass over a short period of time. The longer the acid etched graffiti remains, the more permanent it becomesThe acid graffiti effects can be stopped or slowed down if the substance is cleaned off soon after it is applied to the surface, or it can be neutralized with water or baking soda paste. It is also possible to buff the acid graffiti off of glass, but that must be done as soon as possible.