Cutting stained glass requires some precise skills. You can not just pick a stained glass cutter and start cutting the glass. There are some precautions and expert ways to follow while cutting stained glass.
First, you need to select the proper cutter for the glass you’re working with. There are three different types of cutters: running pliers, scoring wheels, and glass nippers.
However, in this article, I am going to reveal the best ways that you can adopt to cut any type of glass easily. So follow my step-by-step guide and cut glass just like cake.
Precautions for Cutting Stained Glass
Before we start our guide, let’s have a look at some precautions that you must take while cutting stained glass.
- Make sure to always wear stained glass gloves while working with stained glass. The oils from your skin can damage the glass and make it more difficult to work with.
- Always use a sharp cutter when cutting stained glass. A dull cutter will not only make your job more difficult but it can also cause the glass to crack.
- When scoring the glass, make sure to use a straight edge. This will help ensure that your cuts are clean and straight.
- Make sure to wear eye protection when working with stained glass. The glass shards can be very sharp and can cause serious injury if they come into contact with your eyes.
- Always work on a clean, flat surface. A cluttered workspace can make it more difficult to cut the glass and can also lead to accidents.
Now that we’ve gone over some safety precautions, let’s get started with our guide on how to cut stained glass.
How to Cut Stained Glass in Easy Steps:
Follow the step-by-step methods and procedures to cut the glass nicely.
Begin by drawing a line (Scoring)
Get a glass cutter (or a pen knife if you don’t have one) and make a score along the line on the top surface of the glass.
The scorer should be held at a steady angle so that it can create an even line. Once you’ve made your score, you can then use glass-breaking pliers to snap the glass along the line.
If you don’t have a glass cutter or pen knife, you can also use a sharp object like a screwdriver to make your score. Just be sure to make a shallow score so that you don’t crack the glass.
Cut Stained Glass – Procedure #1
In this method, you don’t need plenty of tools but your cutter and two thumbs.
- Score a straight line on the glass.
- Place your cutter on one end of the line.
- Use your left thumb to hold the other end of the line down.
- Now, push the cutter towards your thumb with even pressure.
- As you reach the end of the line, stop and let go of the glass.
- You should now have a clean break along your score line.
Cut Stained Glass – Procedure #2
This is the traditional way of cutting stained glass and is also called the running plier method.
Tools you will need:
- A straight edge Glass cutter
- Running pliers
- Clear tape
- Place your straight edge on the glass to use as a guide.
- Score the glass along the straight edge with your glass cutter.
- Place the running pliers on the score line and squeeze the handles to snap the glass.
- Use clear tape to secure any sharp edges.
Cut Stained Glass – Procedure #3
This is the safest way to cut stained glass, especially if you are a beginner.
Tools you need:
- Ruler
- Cutter
- A cutting board or a piece of foam board
- Place your stained glass on the cutting board.
- Use the ruler to measure and mark the glass where you need to make your cut.
- Score the glass along the line with your cutter.
- Place the cutting board on a table and hold it down with one hand.
- Use the other hand to snap the glass along the score line.
These are three different ways that you can cut stained glass. Choose the method that is best suited for your needs and level of expertise. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cut stained glass like a pro!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cut stained glass perfectly?
The answer is simple: use a glass cutter! A glass cutter is a tool specifically designed to cut through glass. It usually consists of a handle with a small, sharp wheel or blade at the end.
To use a glass cutter, simply place the blade on the glass where you want to make your cut and apply pressure. The blade will score the glass, making a clean, straight line.
Once you’ve scored the glass, place your hands on either side of the score line and apply pressure. The glass should snap along the score line.
How can I cut glass without shattering it?
If you’re worried about shattering the glass, you can use a stained glass saw. A wet saw is a powerful tool that uses a spinning diamond blade to cut through glass. The water cools the glass and lubricates the blade, preventing it from overheating and shattering the glass.
Can stained glass be cut with a wet saw?
Yes, stained glass can be cut with a wet saw. In fact, it’s often the best tool for the job. The water cools the glass and prevents the blade from overheating, which can cause the glass to shatter. Plus, the lubricating effect of the water helps to prevent chipping and breakage.
Conclusion
Finally, I will say that you need to be precise and careful while cutting the stained glass. A wet saw is the best tool for the job as it prevents the blade from overheating and shattering the glass. Follow these tips and you will be able to cut perfect stained glass pieces every time!
