How to Cut Score and Break Glass

Stained glass can be cut into strips, geometric shapes, curves and with a glass saw, almost any shape.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Glass cutter
• Glass oil
• Grinder
• Grozier pliers
• Running pliers

1. 
   Glass Cutter

   If your glass cutter is a self-lubricating add oil to reservoir. If not be sure to dip cutting blade into oil each time you cut.

2. 
   Draw Pattern

   Draw the shape you wish to cut on the smooth side of the glass using a permanent marker.

3. For straight cuts, start scoring the glass from the point farthest from your body and pull the glass cutter towards you.

4. 
   Running Pliers

   Once a score line is made, use running pliers by placing them centered on the score line and gently squeeze. You will see the glass separate at the score line.

5. Hold the stained glass sheet over the edge of the table with the score line hanging over the edge.

6. 
   Grozier Pliers

   Using breaking or grozier pliers, apply gentle pressure in a downward motion over the score line. This can be done with your hands using the same downward motion.

7. To make a curved cut, use the glass cutter to cut off sections one a time. This allows you to work into the curve. Glass likes straight lines or gentle bends.

8. To cut circles, score the glass in the shape or design of a circle.

9. Place the scored line side of the glass down on a piece of corrugated cardboard. Use light pressure and press along the score line until you see it run the circle. Turn the glass over to the side you first scored on and score several tangent cuts radiating out from the circle.

10. Break each tangent score line with breaking pliers. Shapes with irregularities or small projections may be removed with a glass grinder.

11. If you found this article helpful in any way, please rate it as such. The 5th star on the right above would be nice. Feel free to comment as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Warm glass (glass at room temperature) cuts easier than cold glass.
• Work surface must be flat.
• Score on the smooth side of the glass rather than on the textured side of the glass.
• Hold glass cutter in a vertical position as you would a pen or pencil.
• Don't use excessive pressure. Too deep of a score may result in a bad
• break.
• Wear glass or another type of eye protection.
• Edges of glass may be sharp.
• Never use your hand in a sweeping motion to remove bits of glass. Use a shop brush.

Resources

• www.creativity-in-glass.com
• www.easyhomeimprovementprojects.com

[pearl22]

on 4/26/2009 Thanks for the instructions above. I haven't cut glass for over 30 years and your instructions gave me the confidence to tackle a small picture framing job.

[nikk679]

on 11/17/2008 Very helpful article. Basics for the beginner.