There are so many hundreds of glass tools, that all the different choices can boggle your brain. For most people, they will look at stained glass grinders as their first big buy. There are quite a few things to consider when buying your first grinder. Of course, your budget is always something that you need to think about, as well as your yearly 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 us a coated bit to shave off the excess glass to get it ready for using with copper foil. Typically, you will have two grinding bits with each stained glass grinder.

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 good for the hobbyist is just getting started and wants an intro grinder. This type of stained glass grinder is for a person who plans on doing a few projects per year. The good news is, that unlike other gadgets, glass grinders tend to hold their value. That means that you can sell your old model when you decide to move up.

For someone moving up from the hobbyist, you want to check out something with a little more power and that has a few more 'bells and whistles'There are some good. The good news is that the prices only increase slightly when you move up to the next caliber of grinders. Typically, the price jump is pretty small when you move from the hobbyist models to the next step. I really like the Glastar G8 Allstar Grinder. Its a perfect stepup and its great for those who are getting more serious. These 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 are not for many people, probably just the most serious craftsmen. If you aren't doing major projects and using this everyday then it will be too much for what you need it for. The Glastar G9 Disc Grinder is the tool 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. One more time though, given the cost of this model, only the most serious artists should consider and invest in it.

I'm hoping this gives you some guidance on which stained glass grinder is best for your needs and your budget. I know its not an easy task with the many stained glass supply products on the market to know which ones you need to purchase and which one would be nice. I will say, though, that a good grinder is something that anyone serious about glass will want to purchase at some point. It really can make your project easier and, right next to your Spectrum Glass, its something that will make your journey a little easier. So, put on your goggles and enjoy your new grinder!