Graduation - K9 Glass Inner Engraving with Light Blocking Tape

It is best to use a photo with a simple background for processing. Process the photo either with xTool Studio, the AI 3D model generator on Atomm, or 3rd party software like Cockpit 3D.  For xTool Studio, scale the image so it fits in the glass block, select the image, click Edit, select the Image Editing Panel on the left, then Tools > 3D Photo. This costs credits.

You can add text as well, positioned in front of the image, being careful not to block too much of the image with the text. Personalize it with the graduate's name, school, and/or graduation date.

Install the inner engraving lens and riser base. Remove the lens cover.

Measure the sides of the block and enter the dimensions in xTool Studio under Inner Engraving Settings. This block needs to be oriented vertically because we use more vertical space than the 70mm max width of the inner engraving.

Process > Start

When the subject is dark, like a graduation gown, it is helpful to darken the back of the glass. I have experimented with black electrical tape, black felt, and other dark materials. I have gotten the best results with 70% light blocking tape. Electrical tape also works well.

From a roll of 70% light blocking tape, cut a piece to fit the back of the glass block. I used a 50x50x80 mm block, so I cut the tape around 49x49x79 mm to leave a small border.

Clean the back surface of the glass block with alcohol. 

Peel back a small piece of the wax paper exposing the sticky side of the tape. Carefully align the tape with one end of the back of the glass block and press a thin line to the glass ensuring the tape lays flat and is well aligned. 

With a rubber brayer if available, press and roll the tape down as the wax paper is slowly removed. This helps to avoid bubbles forming under the tape. If bubbles do form, they can be pressed out as you would with a screen protector.

The first two images are the finished product with and without a light base. In the last two images you can clearly see the effect of the light blocking tape.

All that's left is to package the glass and present it to the proud grad.