A Beginner’s Guide to Stained Glass Cutting and COE 96 Fusing

Working with stained glass and kiln-formed art can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you start with the right knowledge and materials. At BiNARi Glass Studio, we believe strong fundamentals help artists grow with confidence and creative freedom. This guide explains how to cut stained glass for beginners and also introduces how to use COE 96 glass for fusing, two essential skills for anyone beginning their journey into glass art. With the right approach, tools, and techniques, even first-time artists can achieve clean, professional results.

Understanding Stained Glass Basics

Before diving into complex patterns or detailed designs, learning how to cut stained glass for beginners is critical. Cutting is the foundation of all stained glass work. Clean cuts improve accuracy, reduce material loss, and make assembly much easier. Stained glass cutting is not about force; it is about control, precision, and understanding how glass responds to pressure.

Key tools you should become familiar with include:

• A quality glass cutter with a comfortable grip

• A smooth, well-lit cutting surface

• Safety glasses and gloves

• Running pliers for controlled breaks

Step-by-Step Cutting Process

When practicing how to cut stained glass for beginners, consistency matters more than speed. A calm, methodical approach helps you develop muscle memory and confidence over time.

Basic cutting steps include:

• Clean the glass thoroughly to remove dust or oil

• Score the glass once using steady, even pressure

• Avoid retracing the score line

• Break along the score using gentle, controlled force

These habits not only improve results but also reduce the risk of chipping or cracking.

Introduction to COE 96 Glass

For kiln-formed projects, understanding compatibility is essential. Many artists explore how to use COE 96 glass for fusing because this glass type is stable, versatile, and widely available. COE 96 refers to the coefficient of expansion, which ensures glass pieces melt and cool together without stress.

COE 96 glass is commonly used for:

• Fused plates and bowls

• Decorative wall art

• Jewelry components

• Functional art pieces

Fusing with Confidence

Learning how to use COE 96 glass for fusing begins with proper preparation and attention to detail. Clean glass surfaces, accurate layering, and correct kiln schedules all contribute to successful outcomes. COE 96 is especially beginner-friendly because it responds predictably during firing cycles.

Important fusing considerations include:

• Keeping glass thickness consistent

• Using kiln paper or shelf primer

• Allowing proper cooling and annealing time

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many new artists struggle when they do not fully understand how to cut stained glass for beginners, often applying uneven pressure or ignoring safety practices. Similarly, misunderstanding how to use COE 96 glass for fusing can lead to surface flaws, stress cracks, or weak final pieces. Awareness and patience go a long way in preventing these issues.

Conclusion

Mastering glass art takes time, practice, and reliable guidance. By learning how to cut stained glass for beginners, you create a strong foundation for precision and creativity. When you also understand how to use COE 96 glass for fusing, you unlock the potential for durable, professional-quality kiln work. At BiNARi Glass Studio, we are proud to support artists at every stage with expert insight, quality materials, and a deep passion for the art of glass.