Other than a kiln, a glass cutter is one of the most-used tools in your glass studio. It’s something you’ll reach for every time you cut a piece of glass—so finding one that feels comfortable and works well for your needs is important.
If you’ve ever heard me talk about my fused glass process, you’ve probably heard me mention my TOYO Pistol Grip glass cutter (shown above - top left). It’s been my go-to tool the entire time I've done fused glass (17 years to be exact!), and I love how comfortable it feels in my hand. But there are several different styles of handheld glass cutters, and each has its own advantages. If you’re just getting started or thinking about switching things up, let’s go over the most popular types so you can find the right fit for you!
Types of Handheld Glass Cutters
1. Pencil Grip Cutters
Pencil grip cutters are slim and straight, similar to holding a pen or pencil. They give you great control and are perfect for detailed cuts or working on small pieces. Many glass artists love this style because of its precision, but it does take a little getting used to if you're new to glass cutting. However, because of the pressure you're putting on the cutter and on your wrist, it isn't great ergonomically.
- Best for: Detailed work, straight lines, and those who like a traditional grip
- Popular brands: TOYO, Fletcher, Silberschnitt
2. Pistol Grip Cutters
This is the style I use most often! Pistol grip cutters have an ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in your hand, reducing strain on your fingers and wrist. This design makes it easier to apply consistent pressure when scoring glass, which is especially helpful if you do a lot of cutting or struggle with hand fatigue.
I’ve used my TOYO Pistol Grip cutter forever, but because I do a lot of straight cuts against a ruler, I recently switched to a wider cutter head—and I can definitely tell the difference! Sometimes, changing just the cutter head instead of the whole tool can make your cuts smoother and more precise. If your cutter isn’t performing the way you want, trying a new head might be the fix.
- Best for: Frequent cutting, long curves, and anyone needing extra wrist support
- Popular brands: TOYO, Studio Pro
3. Custom-Grip (Ergonomic) Cutters
These cutters are designed with comfort in mind, featuring adjustable or molded handles that fit your hand’s natural shape. They combine features of both pencil and pistol grip styles, making them a great option for artists who want versatility and comfort in one tool.
- Best for: Artists who want a more customized grip
- Popular brands: TOYO Custom Grip
4. Creator Brand Glass Cutters
Creator Brand offers a unique lineup of glass cutters designed for comfort, precision, and versatility. Their Hummingbird, Bumble Bee, Humble Bee, and Mandolin cutters each have distinct features to suit different cutting styles. The Hummingbird and Bumble Bee are lightweight and ergonomic, great for artists who prefer a smooth, fluid cutting motion. The Humble Bee is a more compact option, perfect for those who like a smaller, easy-to-handle tool. The Mandolin, with its innovative shape, provides extra control and stability, making it a favorite for intricate designs. If you’re looking for a glass cutter that balances comfort with high performance, Creator Brand offers some fantastic choices!
Other Considerations
When choosing a glass cutter, here are a few other important factors to consider:
1. Cutter Head Angle
Glass cutters come with different wheel angles, typically 120°, 140°, or 154°. A 120° wheel is best for thinner glass, while a 154° wheel is better for scoring thick glass. If you work with a variety of glass thicknesses, you may want to have multiple cutter heads on hand. Most glass cutters will come with a wheel angle that works best for cutting standard glass for most applications.
2. Oil vs. Dry Cutters
Some cutters have built-in reservoirs for oil, which helps lubricate the wheel and create smoother scores. Oil-filled cutters can reduce chipping and extend the life of the wheel, but if you prefer a dry cutter, you can always apply oil manually with a brush, dipping the cutter head into oil, or keeping it dry all-together. In fact, I've been cutting glass without oil for years, with no issues. It all comes down to personal preference.
TIP: If you do use oil, be sure to clean your glass thoroughly before fusing.
3. Comfort and Grip Style
Everyone's hands are different, so it's important to choose a cutter that feels comfortable to hold. If you cut glass frequently, an ergonomic handle or pistol grip might reduce strain on your hand. If you prefer more control for detailed work, a pencil grip could be a better choice.
4. Replacement Cutter Heads
Over time, even the best cutter heads wear out. Some glass cutters allow you to replace just the head, saving you money in the long run. If you plan to use your cutter for years, make sure you choose one with easily available replacement heads.
5. Price vs. Quality
While budget-friendly cutters are great for beginners, investing in a high-quality carbide wheel cutter will make cutting glass easier and more precise. Carbide is an incredibly hard material, which means the cutting wheel stays sharp much longer than steel. This gives you cleaner, more precise cuts and makes your cutter last way longer—definitely worth it! Cheap cutters tend to wear out quickly, so spending a little more upfront can save you frustration (and money) later.
Choosing the Right Cutter for You
At the end of the day, the best cutter is the one that fits best in your hand and does the best for your wrist to help you make clean, consistent scores. If you’re just starting out, you might need to try a couple of styles to figure out what works best for you.
For me, my TOYO Pistol Grip has been a favorite, but switching to a new cutter head reminded me that even small changes can make a big impact. If your current cutter isn’t working as well as it used to, try replacing the cutter head before giving up on the tool entirely—it might be just what you need!
What’s your favorite glass cutter? Let me know in the comments!