Transferring Pattern Shapes onto Glass

Transferring pattern shapes onto glass will diversify the type of art you can create, so learning how to, will definitely benefit you. Not only will it benefit you, but it will diversify the type of work that you can do.

You will need to draw an outline of the shape to be cut directly onto glass with a permanent waterproof fine-tipped marker. Position pattern piece on glass sheet to avoid excessive waste but take into account the grain or texture of glass piece you are cutting and how it will flow with the other mosaic pieces around it. Leave approximately 1/4 in of space around the piece so the breaking pliers will have material to grasp when breaking the score line.

Translucent and light- coloured Opalescent Glass

For many translucent and light-coloured opalescent glasses, the pattern can be transferred by placing a sheet of glass directly on the pattern copy and tracing the design lines with marker. A light box can help illuminate the pattern from below when tracing onto darker shades of glass.

Opaque Glass

For opaque glass, the pattern can be transferred onto the glass using one of the three following methods:

• Using scissors or utility knife to cut the required pattern piece from an extra copy of the project pattern. Place the pattern piece on the glass and trace around the outside edges with the marker.
• Make a template of the pieces to be cut and use the marker to trace around the template perimeter onto the glass. Use cardstock, lightweight cardboard, or 2mm or 3mm float glass for making the template. Use this method when making multiple projects using the same pattern.
• Place a carbon sheet face down on the glass with the pattern on top. Press firmly with a pen or pencil to transfer the pattern lines onto the glass. Go over the carbon lines with marker.

We hope that these tips on transferring shapes onto glass really does help you and open up your creativity. We hope to see what you have made! Contact us if you have any other questions.