A Quick Guide to Stained Glass Tools, Supplies, and Resources for Beginners

According to the SGAA, one of the oldest examples of using multiple pieces of colored glass in a window was found at St. Paul’s Monastery, founded in 686 AD. Cool, right?

Fast-forward to today: We’ve got cool tools for stained glass work, modern stained glass materials, and free resources that explain the stained glass process for beginners. Electricity speeds up the process, modern tools do the same job more efficiently, and you can find supplies locally and online. 

No apprenticeships needed.  Now, you can learn how to do stained glass with DIY tutorials and classes! 

If you're just getting started, I hope this list gives you a solid jump-start into stained glass crafts.

I’ll cover the core tools and materials, safety tips, common troubleshooting fixes, and resources for ongoing learning. And remember—this is just an overview, not an exhaustive list.

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1. Tools for Stained Glass Work

All projects need tools - here are the basics

Cutting & Scoring Tools 

• Glass Cutters: Options range from pistol-grip cutters to oil-fed models. Choose one that feels comfortable and provides a consistent score. 

• Running Pliers: Helpful for breaking scored glass.  A great tool to reduce frustration, especially for beginners.

• Cutting Mats & Straight Edges: Nice to have. They protect your work surface and aid in making straight, clean cuts.

Shaping & Grinding Tools

• Grozing Pliers: Removes extra glass from scored edges before moving to the grinder. Saves time and wear on grinder bits.

• Glass Grinders: With interchangeable grit bits, these tools help smooth rough edges and fine-tune curves.  Bits are available in various grades and diameters for different needs. 

• Hand Files & Sanding Pads: Optional - Some makers use these instead, or in addition to,  an electric grinder.

Assembly & Finishing Tools

• Soldering Iron: Temperature-controlled models are preferred to maintain precision during soldering. Get one made for stained glass. I have a Hakko and love it.

• Flux & Solder: Choose high-quality flux to prepare copper foil and solder that suits your project—options include leaded and lead-free varieties. Do not use a rosin-core solder as it’s meant for electronics, not glass

• Copper Foil & Fid Tools: For the Tiffany method, you'll need copper foil tape. Fid tools help press the foil smoothly against the glass. I have fid tools, but most of the time, I just use an old marker barrel—it works great!

• Polishing Cloths: To give your finished piece a beautiful shine!

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2. Materials for Stained Glass Projects

Materials are the foundation of any stained glass work. Knowing your options helps you select the best supplies for your design.

Glass 

• Types: Choose from cathedral, opalescent, textured, or clear glass. Consider the thickness and color intensity based on your project’s style.  Practice on more affordable pieces. Even an old picture frame works as a practice option.

• Handling & Storage: Store glass upright, with cardboard or paper between sheets, to prevent breakage. The edges are sharp - handle with care.  Gloves are recommended.

Metals & Came Alternatives

• Solder: Available in various compositions. Leaded solder flows more easily, while lead-free options are preferred for projects meant to be handled frequently.

• Lead or Zinc Came: Lead is traditional - it's flexibility and easy to use. It can be reinforced for larger panels. Zinc offers rigidity for larger projects.

• Copper Foil: Great for intricate designs and smaller items.

Chemicals 

• Flux: A quality flux is critical; it ensures the solder adheres to the copper foil or lead came. Experiment with different types to find one that works best for you. I like a gel flux.

• Patinas & Finishing Compounds: Use these to enhance the appearance of solder lines. They change the color of your solder and came, adding depth to your piece.

• Cleaning: Neutral pH detergents, soaps for removing lead from skin and clothing, and flux remover help keep your art, studio, and you clean! 

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3. Safety Practices in the Stained Glass Studio

Working with glass, solder, and chemicals requires careful attention to safety. Here are essential precautions to protect yourself and your workspace:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles that provide full coverage when cutting or grinding.

• Gloves: Use cut-resistant gloves during glass handling, and heat-resistant gloves when soldering.

• Respirators & Dust Masks: Wear a mask when grinding glass to avoid inhaling fine particles. Wet grinding reduces dust, friction and heat, keeping you, your tools and your glass safer.

• Appropriate Clothing: Long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes help protect against cuts, burns, and accidental spills.

Workspace Safety

• Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when soldering or using chemicals. A dedicated fume extractor can reduce exposure to fumes.  

• Tool Safety: Always use tools according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep sharp tools in a safe, accessible place and never leave a hot soldering iron unattended.

• Clean-Up: Regularly clean your workspace to minimize glass dust and debris. Use wet cloths or sponges rather than sweeping, which can stir up particles.

• No food or drink in the studio: Keep food and beverages outside the workspace to avoid contamination and maintain a safe, clean environment.  Wash your hands before eating or drinking.

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4. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best tools and practices, you will encounter problems. Here are some common issues and tips to resolve them:

Poor Glass Fit

• Cause: Inaccurate cutting or improper grozing can lead to gaps between pieces.

• Solution: Measure twice and cut once. Use running pliers and grozing tools meticulously to trim extra glass. Consider practicing on scrap pieces before working on your main design.

 Foil Application Mistakes

• Cause: Off-center or wrinkled foil can affect solder adhesion.

• Solution: Reapply a small strip of foil to correct uneven areas. Use a burnishing tool to ensure the foil is smooth and evenly pressed against the glass edge.

Solder Lines

• Cause: This can result from inconsistent soldering temperature or uneven copper foil application.

• Solution: Ensure your soldering iron maintains a steady temperature, and take time to adjust the foil carefully. Practice steady, continuous movements for smooth solder beads.

Cracks and Breaks

• Cause: Stress from improper handling, temperature changes, or weak glass pieces can lead to cracks or breaks.

• Solution: Avoid sudden temperature changes and handle glass carefully.

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5. Resources for Learning & Inspiration

Whether you’re starting out or looking to refine your techniques, there’s a wealth of resources available:

• Books & Guides: Look for titles covering stained glass techniques, design patterns, and troubleshooting tips. Your local library is a great place to start!

• Online Tutorials & Courses: Platforms like YouTube, Udemy, and dedicated stained glass websites offer step-by-step tutorials, from basic cutting techniques to advanced soldering methods.

• Local Classes & Workshops: Check out art centers or nearby stained glass studios that offer in-person classes. These are great for hands-on learning and networking with other artists.

• Communities & Forums: Join groups on social media platforms or specialized forums to share tips, ask questions, and find support.

• Suppliers: Build relationships with reputable suppliers who offer quality materials. Support small businesses and shop local when possible.

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Conclusion

There are stained glass starter kits that can get you started making stained glass, but you can absolutely buy them individually and as you need (and can afford) them. Stained glass is all about creativity—combining art, craft, and a little science to create something unique. With the right tools, materials, and an understanding of safety and troubleshooting, you'll feel confident turning glass into art. 

So, get out there, experiment, and most importantly, have fun bringing color and light into your world!

Until next time,

Ailsa