There are so many hundreds of glass tools, that all the different choices can boggle your brain. For a lot of beginners, they will look at stained glass grinders as their first major buy. There are some things you should think about when you first purchase a glass grinder. The type you will buy will depend on your needs and the budget that you have. Don't worry though, there are always options available that will make your jobs easier, no matter your budget. First thing we should cover, why do you need a grinder? Well, simply put, its for shaping glass after its been cut to a rough shape. Grinders use a diamond coated bit to grind off the extra glass in preparation for the glass edge to accept the copper foil. With most stained glass grinders, you'll get a couple of grinder bits to go along with it.

Everyone needs to start somewhere with a grinder and a good choice is typically the Inland Wizling CG. It is a powerful and reliable machine with good torque and, best of all, it has a great price. Because of the great price, this is an ideal choice for somebody who is just getting started in glass. Probably also someone who only plans on doing maybe two or three projects per year and not much more. Since grinders have good resale value, its a perfect option to get going and then maybe sell when you want to move onto something more powerful.

For somebody advancing up from the hobbyist, you want to look at something with a little more power and that has a few more 'bells and whistles'There are many good. A big plus is that you can step into the next caliber of grinders for just a bit more than you spent on the entry level model. Typically, the price jump is pretty small when you move from the hobbyist models to the next step. I really like the Inland Wizard IV Grinder. It is a great graduation for those who are starting to get a little more serious with their stained glass. In some circles, these grinders would be entering pro grade. These grinders are made for use on a daily basis so they can definitely made for a lot of projects

A professional model is only for the most dedicated artists. Unless you are doing some major projects with each and everyday, then this will not be necessary for you. The Glastar G9 Disc Grinder is the thing for you. It can do lampshades, panels, and even boxes. It's just the best tool on the market for creating a straight edge when you need it. Again I'll mention this though, at the price that this retails at, don't buy this unless you are doing some major projects.

Hopefully this gave you some wisdom on where, how, and what you should look for when you buy your grinder. I know its not an easy task with the many stained glass supplies in the marketplace to know which ones you need to purchase and which one would just be a luxury. I will say, though, that a good grinder is a product that anyone serious about glass will want to purchase at some point. It will for sure make your life easy and, right next to your Spectrum Glass, its something that will make your journey a little easier. So remember to put on your safety goggles and enjoy!