Sanding Glass Edges: Smooth, Safe, and Polished Results

Glass is beautiful but dangerous when left with sharp or rough edges. Whether you’re crafting stained glass, repairing a table top, or shaping glass art, sanding is essential for safety and aesthetics. This guide walks you through sanding glass edges correctly, achieving smooth, polished, and safe finishes.

Why Sanding Glass Edges Matters

Unfinished glass edges can cut skin and chip easily. Sanding removes sharpness, reduces breakage risk, and prepares the surface for polishing. With the right grit sequence, you can transform rough, dangerous glass into smooth, safe, and professional-looking pieces.

Tools You’ll Need

• Silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets (120–3000 grit)
• Sanding block or foam pad
• Bucket of water or spray bottle
• Protective gloves and goggles
• Microfiber cloths

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Knock down sharp edges safely.
• 400 grit: Smooth scratches left by coarse sanding.
• 800 grit: Begin refining for polish.
• 1500 grit: Prepare for a clear finish.
• 3000 grit: Achieve a glossy, polished edge.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Glass Edges

1. Secure the glass piece. Place it on a stable, padded surface.
2. Start with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (25-pack) wet/dry sheets to remove sharpness.
3. Smooth with 400 grit. Work evenly using 400 grit (50-pack) to refine the edge.
4. Refine with 800 grit. Sand with water until edges feel silky.
5. Polish with 1500 grit. Wet sand for a semi-clear edge.
6. Finish with 3000 grit. Use 3000 grit (100-pack) to achieve a safe, glossy finish.
7. Clean and inspect. Wipe dry with microfiber and check for remaining sharp spots.

Special Cases

For stained glass projects, avoid over-sanding decorative edges. Keep edges slightly rounded to prevent cutting but don’t thin them too much, as this may weaken the glass. For thick tabletops, sanding should be done slowly with constant water flow.

Pro Tips

• Always wet sand glass to reduce dust and prevent cracking.
• Keep steady, light pressure—too much force can chip glass.
• Use a foam pad behind sandpaper for even contact on curves.

Aftercare

• Apply a glass polish or cerium oxide for maximum shine.
• Check edges periodically—glass can chip with use and may need re-sanding.
• Store sanded glass carefully to avoid new chips.

FAQs

• Can I dry sand glass? No, always wet sand—glass dust is hazardous.
• What if the glass chips while sanding? Step back to a coarser grit and smooth the area gradually.
• Do I need special sandpaper? Yes, use silicon carbide wet/dry sheets for best results.

Watch & Learn

Sanding glass edges makes them safer and more beautiful. Stock up on wet/dry sandpaper—packs of 25, 50, and 100 available for all grits. Shop glass sanding sheets here.