How to Cut a Glass Tube

Cutting glass tubing is key to glasswork and glass blowing. Although glass is susceptible to shattering, you can break glass tubing into several pieces with clean cuts. Buy a long glass tube and cut it up for future art or science projects.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sandpaper
• Three-sided file
• Protective gloves and eyewear

1. Decide where you want to cut your glass tube. Run a three-sided file along the cut. Leave a scratch on the surface, but do not saw the glass.

2. Lick your fingertips and place the saliva over the scratch you just created.

3. Turn the scratch away from your body and position your thumbs on either side of the area behind the scratch.

4. Use your thumbs to break the glass tube.

5. Use the sandpaper along the rim of the glass tube to sand down any rough edges.

Tips & Warnings

• Take care when working with glass, as it may shatter. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent injuries.

Resources

• Scientific Glassblowing Basics
• Glass Shop Tips at the University of Delaware