How to Cut Patterns in Stained Glass

Step1

Lay each numbered pattern piece on the colored glass and trace around it with permanent marker. When you remove the pattern the outline of your design will remain on the class.

Step2

When cutting your pattern, do not run the glass cutter back and fort across the score line. Cut the pattern from inside the line in one clean forward sweep. Press the cutter down onto the glass and roll the glass cutter forward. Do not lift the cutter.

Step3

Using the glass cutter, apply pressure and cut within, rather than on the outside of the scoreline.

Step4

Hold one side of the glass with breaking pliers and the other side with your hand. Apply enough pressure at the score line to break the glass. For scores that are hard to break, use running pliers. Repeat this step for each pattern piece until all pieces of glass our cut.

Step5

The colored pieces can then be used to complete your stained glass project.


The first evidence of stain glass was found in Germany during an excavation expedition around 1000AD. It is the favorite décor of a number of churches and cathedrals producing an atmosphere of holiness and reverence in churches around the world. It is a beautifully intricate glass art that has survived centuries. Presently, a number of men and women have become skilled in the craft.Using heavy crafting paper, design your pattern pieces, number, and cut them out. During the design, determine the color(s) of each piece. Stained glass can be monochromatic or varicolored depending on your taste. After the pieces have been numbered, place individually on the glass, trace, and cut out. The time required to cut your pattern is determined by the amount of pieces in your blueprint. Of course, the more pieces that are in your pattern, the longer it will take to cut. Making stained glass can be either a vocation or an avocation.