Starting a new creative hobby is always exciting—but it can be overwhelming, too. If you're curious about fused glass and wondering what tools you really need to get started, you’re in the right place.
Whether you're eyeing a microwave kiln or thinking about investing in a full-size setup later, this guide will walk you through the essentials—without blowing your budget.
1. A Safe Workspace
First things first: You don’t need a fancy studio to start fusing glass. A clean, flat, and well-ventilated area like a garage workbench, laundry room table, or even a kitchen counter can work—just make sure it’s out of reach of pets and kids.
Bonus Tip: Place a silicone mat or piece of scrap plywood underneath your workspace to protect surfaces and keep things tidy.
2. A Kiln (Microwave or Small Electric)
Your kiln is your biggest investment—but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
🔥 Microwave Kiln
These small, portable kilns are designed to work inside a standard microwave. They're affordable (usually $30 - $40) and perfect for making jewelry, small magnets, and test pieces. Just be sure to use a designated microwave and not use your kitchen microwave.
Best for: Curious beginners who want to try glass fusing without the upfront cost of a full-size kiln.
🔥 Small Electric Kiln
If you're ready for something more versatile, an electric kiln with a digital controller gives you more control over firing schedules and temperature. Prices usually start around $1000-$1400.
Best for: Beginners who want more options and are willing to invest a little more from the start.
3. Glass Cutter & Running Pliers
To shape your glass, you’ll need two key tools:
-
Glass cutter – A handheld tool that scores the surface of the glass.
-
Running pliers – Used to gently break glass along the score line with a clean edge.
Depending on which glass cutter you chose, combined these tools can run anywhere from $20 - $50.
Pro tip: If you think you'll enjoy glass fusing - get a quality, comfortable glass cutter now - you're hands will thank you.
4. Safety Gear
Working with glass means taking a few safety precautions:
-
Safety glasses – Protect your eyes from shards or flying bits when cutting.
-
Dust mask – Useful if you're working with glass powders, kiln wash, or jewelry components.
-
Gloves – For handling sharp edges if you're concerned about cuts + a high heat pair of gloves for handling your kiln.
5. Fusable Glass
You’ll want to buy glass that's specifically labeled as fusing-compatible (like COE 90 or COE 96 glass).
Start small—grab a few sample packs of colorful transparent or opaque sheets, or even precut shapes to make jewelry or coasters.
Pro tip: Stick to one COE type when you're starting out. Mixing COEs leads to cracking and breakage.
6. Kiln Paper or Shelf Primer (or both)
To prevent your glass from sticking to the kiln shelf:
-
Use kiln wash to protect your kiln shelf.
- Use shelf paper to further protect your glass from sticking to your kiln shelf
These materials help your glass lift off cleanly after firing.
7. Basic Materials for Projects
Here are some extras that come in handy:
-
Nippers or mosaic cutters (for breaking up small bits of glass)
-
Tweezers (for precise placement)
-
Clear adhesive or glue (to hold pieces in place temporarily)
-
Glass cleaner (for removing oils and residues from your glass)
-
Frit or stringers (decorative glass elements for detail)
Start Small — Grow as You Go
You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with a microwave kiln and a small kit of fusing-compatible glass. Make a few pendants or magnets, and you’ll start to get a feel for how glass behaves in the kiln. As your confidence grows, you can expand your setup and tools over time.
Final Thoughts
Fusing glass doesn’t have to be expensive or intimidating. With just a handful of affordable tools and a curious spirit, you can dive into this colorful, expressive art form and start creating pieces that surprise and delight you.
You don’t need a full studio. You just need a spark.