There are so many hundreds of glass tools, that all the different choices can boggle your mind. For a lot of artists, they will look at stained glass grinders as their first big buy. There are some things you should be thinking about when you first purchase a glass grinder. Of course, your budget is always something that you need to think about, as well as your annual usage. Rest assured though, there is something out there for everyone's budget. What do you use a grinder for? Well, its a tool that will smooth out glass after you've 'rough cut' it to 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 usually the Inland Wizling CG. It is a powerful and reliable machine with good torque and, best of all, it has a great price. This is really ideal for a starter. Probably also someone who only plans on doing maybe two or three projects per year and not much more. The good news is, that unlike other tools, glass grinders tend to hold their value. That means that you can sell your old model when you decide to move up.

For a person taking it to the next stage, you will probably need something a little more powerful and with some more featuresThere are many great. Fortunately, you're not coming too much higher in price in comparison to the hobbyist models. Usually, its just $20-$30 more to elevate from the hobbyist models to the more advanced ones. I really like the Inland Wizard IV Grinder. It is a great graduation for those who are getting a little more serious with their glass work. These glass grinders are actually probably considered professional grade as far as most people are concerned. These grinders are made for use on a daily basis so they can definitely made for a lot of projects

The Pro Models aren't for many people, probably just the most serious craftsmen. Unless you are doing some serious work with each and everyday, then this will not be necessary for you. The Glastar G9 Disc Grinder is the tool for you. It can do lampshades, panels, and even boxes. If you need a straight edge, then rhere is no better tool than this one. Again I'll mention this though, given the cost of this model, don't buy this unless you are doing some major projects.

Hopefully this gave you some tips on where, how, and what you should look for when you purchase your grinder. It can be tough with so many stained glass supply products in the marketplace to know which ones you need to buy and which one would be nice. I will say, though, that a good stained glass grinder is a product that anyone serious about glass will want to purchase at some point. It really can make your project easier and, right next to your Bullseye Glass, its something that will make your journey a little easier. So, put on your goggles and enjoy your new grinder!