How to Cut Glass to Size

Glass is a very handy material; it’s used in all sorts of things from drinking glasses and bowls to windows and picture frames. Making these items demands that the thick glass be cut to size. Cutting glass is not difficult, but it requires the use of the right tools and some knowledge.

First, the piece of glass to be cut needs to be measured and marked. The measurements should be exact, as once the glass is cut there is no going back. A sloppy job could result in ragged edges. It is a good idea to measure several times and make notes on the dimensions so that if there is a mistake it can be corrected before cutting.

The glass should then be washed thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris that might interfere with the tempering process. The piece should then be cleaned using a clean cloth, especially along the line of the desired cut. It is important that the fissure is only scored once, as multiple scores will cause the glass to break. If the glass is very thick, it may be necessary to use a diamond-grinding machine, or even laser-cutting. These machines should only be used by a professional, or by someone who is well trained in the use of such machinery.

Once the glass has been wiped down and is clean, it is ready to be cut. It should be placed on a table or work surface that has been padded or covered. This padding is important as the cutting of glass often results in tiny bits of powder. A padded surface will prevent the powder from being transferred to other surfaces and objects. It is also a good idea to wear rubber gloves while working with glass because it can be quite scratchy.

Lubricate the cutting wheel on the glass cutter with a drop or two of lightweight cutting oil or machine oil, if it is not self-lubricating. Firmly grasp the cutter similar to how you would hold a pencil. Slowly pull the cutter toward you, while applying moderate pressure. You should hear a ripping sound that indicates you are cutting through the glass successfully. If you hear a crackling sound, it means that the glass is being chipped rather than broken. Then, with a straight-edge steel ruler, carefully cut through the score mark until you are free of the glass.

The next step is to clean the glass with a glass cleaner and a cloth or paper towel. If you are working on a mirror, be sure to clean it on the back side, not the painted side, or it will be ruined when it is broken. The finished glass should then be put back into the frame. The piece should be secured with tape around the perimeter to help keep it in place during the tempering process, or it can be hung in another frame. Lastly, the frame should be sanded and polished to smooth out any rough areas and give it a nice finish.

from Glass Repair Logan https://glassrepairlogan.wordpress.com/2024/04/29/how-to-cut-glass-to-size-3/