So You Want to Make Stained Glass: 25 FAQs You’ll Definitely Google at 2AM
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Getting into stained glass is exciting, creative, and occasionally glass-slicey. Whether you're still ogling pliers online or you've already got band-aids on your fingertips, here's a list of the top 25 questions people actually ask when starting this awesome craft.
1. What tools do I actually need to start?
You’ll need a glass cutter, running pliers, grozing pliers, soldering iron, copper foil, solder, flux, safety glasses, and the will to occasionally say “oops.” A grinder and pattern shears help too—trust me.
2. Copper foil or lead came—what’s the difference?
Copper foil = great for detail work and curves. Lead came = better for big panels with straight lines. Choose your fighter.
3. How do I cut glass without having it shatter like sugar candy?
Score once (never twice!), apply even pressure, and break with the right pliers. Then take a breath—you did it right.
4. Why is my copper foil peeling off like a bad sticker?
Your glass was probably dirty or dusty. Clean it like it owes you money, then burnish the foil until it’s tighter than a drum.
5. How do I solder without making a lumpy mess?
Flux is your friend. Use a steady hand, 60/40 solder, and a proper stained glass soldering iron. No, your brother’s plumbing iron doesn’t count.
6. Do I really need safety glasses?
Unless you love the idea of tiny glass daggers flying toward your eyes—yes. Always.
7. Can I use regular glass from a picture frame?
Technically? Sure. Should you? Not if you value your sanity. Use art glass—it cuts better, looks amazing, and won’t ruin your project.
8. How do I choose colors that don’t look like a clown exploded?
Hold samples up to light, test combinations, and ask: “Would I put this in a window… or in a drawer forever?”
9. What’s patina, and do I need it?
It’s like makeup for your solder lines—turns them black or copper to match your design. Totally optional, very cool.
10. How do I clean finished stained glass?
No Windex. Just a soft cloth and mild soap. Your masterpiece deserves better than glass cleaner from the dollar store.
11. Can I fix a broken stained glass piece?
Yes, but it’s not fun. You’ll need to cut the piece out, re-foil, re-solder, and possibly mutter a few choice words.
12. What’s a lightbox and why do I need one?
It helps you trace patterns and see if your pieces fit together like a puzzle—or like a hot mess.
13. Why does my glass keep cracking during cuts?
Your cutter might be dull, or you’re pressing too hard. Score once and let the tool do the work. You’re not trying to carve marble.
14. How do I hang my stained glass piece?
Use hooks, chains, and hangers made for glass. Do not—I repeat, do not—use a suction cup. That’s how heartbreak happens.
15. How long does a project take?
Small suncatchers = an afternoon. Full panels = a few days (and nights). Rushing = regret.
16. Can I hang my piece outside?
Sure, but seal it well and don’t forget: glass + wind = excitement. Frame and reinforce it if it’s going to battle the elements.
17. What glass is best for beginners?
Smooth, transparent, easy-to-cut stuff. Save the wild textures and ripples for when you’re feeling spicy.
18. How do I make a pattern?
Draw it, trace it onto pattern paper, cut with copper foil shears, and admire your new respect for geometry.
19. Can I mix in other stuff like jewels or bevels?
Absolutely. Just make sure they fit your pattern and don’t throw off the balance. Bling responsibly.
20. What’s the deal with painted glass vs stained glass?
Stained = colored during manufacturing. Painted = literally painted, then kiln-fired. Both are cool. One is permanent art, the other is slightly more breakable art.
21. Why are my solder lines turning white or crusty?
That’s oxidation. Polish with wax to keep them shiny. You didn’t do anything wrong—it just happens.
22. What’s flux and why does it smell weird?
Flux helps your solder stick. Yes, it smells funky. Yes, it’s supposed to. Ventilate and carry on.
23. Can I use a regular soldering iron?
Only if you like frustration. Use one with temp control designed for stained glass—your lines (and nerves) will thank you.
24. How do I reinforce bigger panels?
Use rebar or zinc came to keep everything in place. Your glass shouldn’t sag like a bad shelf in a heatwave.
25. Where can I learn more without going broke?
Local classes, YouTube channels, online communities, and of course—TilleryInnovate.com. Shameless plug, fully deserved.