Learn how to cut fused glass with these 6 essential tips.

1.Don't sit when cutting glass. It's better to stand because you should use your whole body and not just your wrist. Cutting glass properly involves using your arm and shoulders as well.

Pictured above is a pencil grip glass cutter.
2.Measure twice cut once. The second part of this adage applies to cutting glass. When working with fused glass make sure you never go over the scored line twice. This can dull your cutter and you still won't cut the glass. If you need to try flipping the glass over and cutting on the other side.

3.Out, out damn spot! The cleaner your glass the better. Dusty and dirty glass can make your glass cutting a pain. Unlike Macbeth you don't have to obsess over the cleanliness of your glass. However, giving it a quick wipe down will make cutting your fused glass much easier.

4.Don't rock the boat! In the fused glass world allowing your glass cutter to wobble won't help. Neither will jerky starts and stops. Cut your glass in one smooth and graceful movement.

The above picture is of a pistol grip glass cutter. Unlike the pencil grip this tool requires less hand strength.

5.It may sound simple but a proper work surface is key when it comes to cutting warm glass. Make sure the table you work on is firm, level, and clean. Having a clean area also helps when it comes to safety because there is less of chance that a glass shard will be lying there to cut you.

6.Oil? Did you know that oil can be used to help cut glass? Well, now you do! Lubricate the head of your glass cutter with just a touch of oil. This will help keep the wheel from freezing up when you make you score line. However, if you are too generous with the oil remember to clean up your warm glass before putting it in the kiln.