How to Make Stained Glass Out of Glass Globs

Glass globs can be a leftover result from glasswork, crafts, or even from a broken vase or figurine. An ideal way to reuse these glass globs is to make them into stained glass. Also, since you already have glass gobs, it saves you money for not having to purchase any glass. The key is to melt the glass gobs first, then mold them into stained glass.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Thick work gloves
• Pliers/glass clippers
• Soldering iron
• Sheet of Plexiglas
• Kiln
• Wax
• Cementing mixture
• Cementing brushes

1. Place the glass gobs on separate kiln trays, and insert them into the kiln, starting to stack up from the bottom. Melt the glass gobs down into sheets at 1,500 degrees F. The length of time the glass gobs will be in the kiln depends upon the type of kiln you have, so read your instruction manual.

2. Remove the glass sheets from the kiln trays once they are done and cooled to room temperature. Put on the heavy work gloves, and move to a safe area to break the glass. Use the clippers or the pliers to cut and shape the glass pieces.

3. Set down the Plexiglas. Arrange your melted glass globs pieces on top of the Plexiglas however you choose. Use sandpaper to get rid of very sharp edges, but do not sand the flat sides of the glass (this can dull the appearance).

4. Heat up the wax until it is the consistency of putty. Secure the glass pieces together by inserting it between the cracks.

5. Let the wax harden completely. Mix up the cement mixture, and use the brushes to coat the top of the wax. This will help solidify the glass pieces together even more. Wipe away any debris or excess. Let the glass dry.

6. Sand down any edges that seem awkward or sharp. Use your stain glass as you see fit, whether it is for a window, art project or mural.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when using a kiln, and sharp instruments and materials.