Stained Glass Requirements
For Beginners

When you first start to gather all of the tools required to make stained glass projects, you'll notice that the cost of starting up a hobby or business with glass really is not that expensive. A few basic tools will get you on your way to making beautiful pieces.

The first thing you will need is a work space. If you are fortunate enough to have a dedicated work area with a large work bench you can get started. Your should try to have a work area with good electrical connections and easily-accessible running water to clean up and provide water for your grinder.

Here's a checklist of tools you will need to get started. The ones with an asterisk are required for basic work, while all others will make life easier, but you can live without them. All prices are approximate.

*	Cork Backed Stainless Steel Ruler	$4.95
*	Plastic Fids	$6.95
*	Soldering Iron	$30 - $80
*	Tinning Block	$6.95
*	Copper Foil	$4 - $32
*	Safety Glasses	$8.95
*	Iron Stand	$8.95
*	1/2" Breaking Pliers	$8 - $10
*	3/8" Breaker/ Grozer Pliers	$8 - $10
*	Lead Nipper Pliers	$9 - $35
*	Lead Shears	$9 - $35
*	Glass Cutter	$6 - $65
*	Glass Cutting Oil	$4.95
	Glazing Hammer	$8.95
	Wire Brush	$3.95
	14" Plastic Cutting Square	$4.95
	Copper Patina For Solder	$3.95
	Grid Cutting Surface	$21.95

The items above are of course just tools, you will obviously need glass for your projects. The price of glass fluctuates widely depending on quality, size, color and manufacturer. For pricing and comparison, you could purchase a sample set from a manufacturer such as a Master Spectrum Sample Set or a Bullseye Master Sample Set, but these can be pricey, sometimes costing $150 or more. If you are on a budget, just visit your local stained glass shop to get an idea of what is available.

You may wish to check out our pages for intermediate or advanced hobbyists to look into other tools you may want to acquire.