Modern etched glassware combines the latest technology in computer equipment with the long-time workhorses of compressors and sandblasting equipment. The process begins with the artwork, which can include anything from a photograph to a hand-drawn sketch and including an arrangement of words. Anything that can be scanned into a computer is usually suitable for sand carving. A positive is burned using the completed artwork by exposing it to a special light sensitive, water soluble film and developed under pressurized, heated water. The film is then positioned on the glass and the surrounding areas are masked off to avoid any sandblasting over spray from contacting the piece. Sandblasting is performed over the entire developed area. The area that had been exposed and developed will allow the sand to pass through the film and etch the glass keeping the surrounding areas protected. The longer the blast nozzle is held in one spot, the deeper the etching. Then the glass is ready to be cleaned after the sand, tape and resist material are washed away, what is left is a beautiful frosted design permanently etched into the piece.