How to File Sanding Glass

Sea glass makes interesting, unique art creations.

With the right equipment, it is not difficult to sand and smooth a small piece of glass (such as found sea glass) for use in art projects, jewelry and crafts. All you need is a variable-speed rotary tool, a bowl of water and a diamond taper-point bit. This process does not work well for thin or brittle glass, such as a piece of a broken drinking glass.

Things You'll Need

• Variable-speed rotary tool
• Diamond taper-point bit
• Thin, disposable gloves
• Dust mask
• Eye protection
• Shallow, disposable plastic bowl
• Extra-fine polishing paper, optional

Instructions

1. Wear a dust mask, long sleeves and disposable gloves. You may also wish to wear eye protection, which is always a good idea when you've got a power tool pressed up against a piece of glass. Remember that the glass particles are very fine and can cause skin irritation.

2. Fill a shallow plastic dish with cool water. A disposable takeout container works well and is cost effective. Place the piece of glass in the water.

3. Insert the diamond bit into the rotary tool and tighten the chuck. Run your tool at the lowest speed and lightly press the edge, not the tip, of the diamond bit to the edge of the submerged glass. Do not insert the tool itself into the water. As you run the edge of the bit along the glass, it is normal for the water to begin to cloud and fill with white particles. Do not try to run the bit along the face of the glass, as it will scratch and the glass may weaken or crack.

4. Continue to deburr the edge of the glass in this manner, concentrating on any chips and sharp edges. Note that it can take a significant amount of time and effort to create a smooth surface. Use your judgment about how much pressure to apply based on the thickness of the glass. Remove the glass from the water periodically to check your progress. If the bit becomes dull, exchange it for a new one.

5. Dry the piece of glass on a paper towel. At this point, you may wish to use some elbow grease and a piece of extra-fine sandpaper to finish the edge of the dry glass. Wear gloves and a dust mask and rinse the glass often during this process. When you are finished, clean your work area thoroughly to avoid later skin irritation.

References

• Craftster: How to Sand Glass
• Nano-Reef.com: How to Finish/Polish Glass Edges