The Order of Operations for Sandcarving Techniques
Complete the sandcarving process in the order of the techniques to be utilized.
Whenever you work on a sandcarving project that involves various techniques, you should always finish the blasting process in the order of the techniques to be utilized: carving first, surface etching second, and shading last. Only after the blasting is completed do you move to other techniques such as gold leafing and/or painting.
-Ruth Dobbins, Professional Glass Consultant