Helping You Complete Your Work of Art
Check out our guided Stained Glass Kit Tutorial to help you complete your glass design. Tips & Tricks for specific steps below!
Watch Our Guided Tutorial
Tips & Tricks
How To Do Foiling
Foiling is the process of wrapping copper foil around the edges of glass pieces. Pro tips: Use a foil roller to ensure smooth, even adhesion. Start from one corner and work your way around, overlapping slightly at the seams. For curved edges, cut small notches in the foil to help it conform smoothly. Keep your glass clean and dry before applying foil for best results.
How To Do Burnishing
Burnishing presses the foil firmly onto the glass to create a strong bond. Pro tips: Use a wooden or plastic tool to avoid scratching the foil. Apply firm, even pressure in circular motions, working from the center outward. Pay special attention to corners and curves where foil tends to lift. A well-burnished piece will have better solder adhesion and a more professional finish.
How To Flux
Flux is essential for successful soldering—it helps solder flow smoothly and creates stronger joints. Pro tips: Apply flux generously to all foiled edges before soldering. Use a flux brush for even coverage. Liquid flux works best for detailed work, while paste flux is great for larger areas. Clean excess flux with a damp sponge after soldering for a cleaner appearance. Always use lead-free, rosin-core flux for safety.
How To Do Soldering
Soldering joins foiled glass pieces together with melted metal. Pro tips: Keep your iron tip clean and well-tinned for best heat transfer. Use smooth, controlled movements and let the heat do the work—don't force the solder. For strong joints, apply solder to both sides of the foil. Practice on scrap pieces first to develop a steady hand. Proper ventilation is crucial when soldering.
How To Polish
Polishing brings out the shine and removes oxidation from your finished pieces. Pro tips: Use a soft cloth and gentle circular motions to avoid scratching. For solder lines, use a specialized metal polish designed for lead or tin. Polish glass surfaces with a glass cleaner for a crystal-clear finish. Regular polishing keeps your pieces looking fresh and extends their lifespan. Always work in a well-lit area to spot missed spots.