Creating a piece of stained glass typically requires some very specific tools to cut and attach the pieces of glass. Glass cutters are probably the most essential tool, and can make the difference in a clean cut or jagged, broken edges. The devices range from hand-held models to machine style saws. Other stained glass tools include foil tape, soldering equipment, and glass grinders. These tools are often selected individually, based on precision and quality, but for beginners, some of these supplies can be purchased as entire kits.
The most common types of hand-held glass cutters are pistol grip and pencil style. Both generally require the use of cutting oil, a type of oil that lubricates the cutting wheel. Some cutters have oil reservoirs inside, which distribute the oil as it scores the glass. Lubricating the wheel usually creates more even scoring, which should result in a cleaner cut. Both pistol grip and pencil cutters work basically the same way, and are usually chosen based on hand comfort.
Glass saws are stained glass tools commonly used in thicker types of glass. They look very much like a typical table saw, but use diamond coated blades designed specifically for use on glass. Blades can be of ring, band or wire design, depending on the need for precision. Wire style blades are generally considered the most precise.
Once the glass is cut, stained glass tools designed to smooth the edges are usually used. Generally, the first step involves the use of a glass grinder, which grinds down any uneven or ragged protrusions. Then, a tool called a buffer is used to smooth down the edges. Both buffers and grinders are usually hand-held stained glass tools.
When the pieces are cleaned and ready to join, the next step usually involves wrapping each piece in foil tape. Though this can be accomplished by hand, most stained glass artists use a tool called a table foiler. Table foilers are designed to dispense foil evenly and quickly, and eliminate the need to hold the coiled foil in the hand. This frees up both hands to work in the wrapping process.
Soldering tools are used in the final stages of stained glass creation. Foil wrapped pieces of glass are joined together by melting the copper foil surround each piece. As the foil melts, the two pieces are molded together. Drying and hardening of the copper foil should result in secure attachment of the cut pieces of glass.
