You have a vision for your next project. Maybe it’s a set of shimmering pendants or a vibrant fused glass panel that catches the light just right. To bring that idea to life, you need the perfect materials. The magic is often in the dichroic glass, but the piece you need for a tiny earring is completely different from one for a large platter. This guide will help you choose the best COE 96 dichroic glass for your specific project. We’ll break down how to consider scale, design, and the unique effects from different glass coatings, so your finished piece is everything you envisioned.

Key Takeaways

• Always match your COE to prevent cracks: The most important rule in glass fusing is ensuring compatibility. Only use COE 96 dichroic glass with other COE 96 materials to guarantee your finished piece is strong and structurally sound.
• Choose the right glass form for your project: Buy full sheets when you need control for custom designs, opt for scrap packs to get a budget-friendly variety for jewelry, and use pre-cut shapes to save time and ensure consistency.
• Test fire a small piece to preview the final color: Dichroic glass is known for shifting color in the kiln. Firing a small sample first shows you exactly how it will transform, preventing any unwanted surprises in your final artwork.

What Is COE 96 Dichroic Glass (and Why Do Artists Love It)?

If you’ve spent any time in the world of glass art, you’ve definitely heard artists talk about COE 96 dichroic glass. It’s a favorite for a reason! This type of glass combines the reliability of a standard expansion rate with the stunning, color-shifting beauty of a dichroic coating. It’s the secret behind some of the most eye-catching fused glass jewelry and art pieces. But what exactly do all those terms mean, and why should you consider adding it to your studio? Let’s break down what makes this glass so special and why it’s a staple for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

Why Coefficient of Expansion (COE) Matters

First things first, let’s talk about COE. The term stands for Coefficient of Expansion, which is just a technical way of describing how much glass expands when it gets hot and shrinks when it cools down. For glass artists who fuse pieces together in a kiln, this is incredibly important. If you try to fuse two types of glass with different COEs, they’ll cool at different rates and crack under the stress. The two most common types you’ll find are COE 90 and COE 96. The number simply refers to that rate of expansion. COE 96 is especially popular because it’s compatible with a huge range of other glass products, giving you more creative freedom.

What Makes Dichroic Glass Shimmer?

Now for the fun part: the shimmer. “Dichroic” means the glass displays two different colors depending on the lighting and viewing angle. This magical effect is created by applying ultra-thin layers of metallic oxides to the glass surface in a vacuum chamber. The result is a brilliant, color-shifting surface that can look like anything from a rainbow to a galaxy. When you fire COE 96 dichroic glass, the colors and patterns can shift even more, creating a completely unique and dazzling finish. It’s this dynamic, shimmering quality that makes dichroic glass a go-to for artists looking to create pieces with incredible depth and visual interest.

The High-Tech Coating Process

The magic behind that color-shifting surface is a seriously cool, high-tech process. To create dichroic glass, manufacturers place glass inside a vacuum chamber and deposit multiple, micro-thin layers of metallic oxides—like titanium and chromium—onto its surface. We’re talking about 30 to 50 individual layers, yet the total thickness is only about 35 millionths of an inch! It’s this precise layering that gives the glass its signature effect. Each layer is so thin that it manipulates light, causing some wavelengths to reflect back to your eye while others pass straight through. This is why the color seems to change as you view it from different angles.

How the Coating Adds Durability

Beyond its stunning appearance, that metallic coating offers a practical benefit: it makes the glass stronger. The same vacuum-coating process that creates the beautiful colors also adds a protective layer to the surface. This makes the glass more resistant to scratches and general wear and tear, which is a huge plus for pieces that will be handled frequently, like jewelry or decorative plates. So, while you’re probably choosing COE 96 dichroic glass for its incredible beauty, you can also feel confident knowing it has an extra layer of durability built right in. It’s a perfect combination of form and function for your most treasured projects.

How Does COE 96 Compare to Other Glass?

So, why choose COE 96 over other options? Its biggest advantage is versatility. Because so many manufacturers produce glass with this rating, you have a massive palette of compatible colors, textures, and forms to work with, from sheets to frit. This makes it easier to experiment and combine different elements in your work without worrying about compatibility issues. While you can find a wide variety of COE 96 glass, finding high-quality, reliable sheets is key for serious artists. It’s a dependable choice that delivers consistent results, which is why it has become a cornerstone material in the world of fused glass art.

The Surprising History of Dichroic Glass

The shimmering, color-shifting glass we use in our studios has a story that’s far more epic than you might imagine. It’s a tale that connects ancient Roman artisans with NASA scientists, blending ancient mystery with space-age technology. Before this material made its way into our kilns, it was a symbol of luxury and a tool for cosmic exploration. Understanding its history not only adds a layer of appreciation for the material but also highlights the incredible innovation that allows us to create with it today. From a single, priceless artifact to the sheets of glass available to artists everywhere, the journey of dichroic glass is a fascinating one.

From Ancient Rome to Outer Space

The story begins nearly two thousand years ago. The earliest known example of dichroic glass is the Lycurgus Cup, a Roman artifact from the 4th century AD that appears jade green in reflected light but glows ruby red when lit from behind. For centuries, no one understood how it was made. It turns out, Roman glassmakers had unknowingly stumbled upon nanotechnology, mixing microscopic particles of gold and silver into the glass. This ancient marvel was a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The technology was then lost for over a millennium, only to be reinvented for a completely different purpose: space travel.

NASA’s Role in Modern Dichroic Glass

The modern dichroic glass we know and love is a direct result of the space race. In the mid-20th century, NASA needed a way to protect astronauts and sensitive equipment from the harsh radiation of space while allowing clear visibility. They developed a process to apply incredibly thin layers of metallic oxides to glass in a vacuum chamber. These coatings could selectively filter light, reflecting harmful radiation while letting visible light pass through. This innovation was used for everything from visors on astronaut helmets to filters on spacecraft windows, proving essential for space exploration.

How Space-Age Tech Came to the Art Studio

So how did this high-tech material end up in the hands of artists? The same vacuum deposition process developed by NASA was eventually adapted for commercial and artistic use. Inside a vacuum chamber, an electron beam vaporizes metals and oxides, which then settle on the surface of the glass, layer by microscopic layer. The specific combination of these layers determines which light wavelengths are reflected and which are transmitted, creating the signature color-shifting effect. This “chameleon effect,” as NASA once called it, is what gives dichroic glass its incredible depth and brilliance, making a once-exclusive technology accessible for creating stunning works of art.

More Than Just Art: Common Uses for Dichroic Glass

While we artists love using dichroic glass to create dazzling jewelry and fused art, its applications extend far beyond the studio. This unique material is valued in a variety of high-tech and design-focused industries for the very same properties that make it so appealing for our work: its ability to manipulate light in beautiful and precise ways. From large-scale architectural installations to specialized scientific instruments, dichroic glass plays a role in fields where performance and aesthetics are equally important. Its versatility proves that it’s more than just a pretty material; it’s a product of sophisticated engineering.

Architectural and Design Applications

Architects and interior designers use dichroic glass to create dynamic, interactive spaces. Because it changes color based on the viewing angle and light source, it can make a building’s facade or an interior wall come alive. You might see it used in feature windows, partitions, or sculptures that transform throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky. This ability to add a vibrant, ever-changing element to a design makes it a sought-after material for projects that aim to be both modern and visually captivating. It introduces a unique element that static materials simply can’t match.

A Growing Market for a Unique Material

The demand for dichroic glass in architecture and design continues to grow as more professionals discover its potential. According to Glass Magazine, its unique properties allow designers to create truly memorable experiences. Because the manufacturing process is complex, it remains a premium material, often reserved for high-impact features. However, its growing popularity in commercial and residential projects shows a clear appreciation for its ability to blend art with function, creating spaces that are both beautiful and innovative. This trend helps drive further innovation in the glass industry.

Scientific and Optical Uses

The original purpose of modern dichroic glass was scientific, and it continues to be a critical component in many optical instruments. It’s used to create precise filters that separate light into different colors. You can find these filters in LCD projectors, 3D movie glasses, microscopes, and other scientific equipment where controlling specific wavelengths of light is essential. This high-tech application is a reminder that the beautiful shimmer we see is the result of very precise physics, allowing for exact color separation that is crucial for technology and research.

Advanced Artistic Techniques

For glass artists, the unique properties of dichroic glass open up a world of creative possibilities. By layering different types of COE 96 dichroic glass or combining it with other compatible glasses, you can achieve incredible depth and complex patterns. The material’s cost reflects its intricate manufacturing process, but the results are unparalleled. Firing dichroic glass in a kiln can also alter its colors and textures, so many artists enjoy experimenting with different firing schedules to produce one-of-a-kind effects. Mastering these techniques allows you to create signature pieces that truly stand out.

Dichroic Film as a Versatile Alternative

For artists or designers looking for the dichroic effect without the cost or weight of solid glass, dichroic film is an excellent alternative. This flexible, adhesive film can be applied to existing glass or other smooth surfaces to create the same color-shifting appearance. It’s a popular choice for large-scale installations, interior design updates, and even smaller craft projects. While it doesn’t have the same durability or firing capabilities as real dichroic glass, it provides a versatile and accessible way to incorporate the stunning look of dichroism into a wider range of creative endeavors.

Top Brands for COE 96 Dichroic Glass

When you’re ready to buy COE 96 dichroic glass, you’ll notice a few key names pop up again and again. Choosing a reputable brand is one of the best ways to ensure your finished pieces are stunning and structurally sound. High-quality glass from a trusted manufacturer fires predictably, has consistent color, and is free from imperfections that could compromise your work. While there are many options out there, a few brands have earned a loyal following among glass artists for their reliability and beautiful effects.

Working with established brands also means you get access to a wider community of artists who use the same materials. This makes it easier to find firing schedules, project ideas, and troubleshooting advice. Whether you’re looking for vibrant, solid colors or intricate, eye-catching patterns, starting with a well-known brand gives you a solid foundation for creating incredible art. Let’s look at some of the top names you should know.

ArtGlassSupplies.com

While we’re a supplier and not a manufacturer, our collection of COE 96 dichroic glass is so extensive that we’ve become a go-to resource for artists of all levels. We carry a huge variety of forms to spark your creativity, including everything from precut shapes and firestrips to stringers, noodles, and Hot Stixs. Our goal is to make it easy for you to find exactly what you need for your next project, all in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or stocking up your professional studio, our catalog is curated to provide high-quality, inspiring options for any creative vision.

CBS (Coatings by Sandberg)

If you’re looking for patterns that truly stand out, CBS (Coatings by Sandberg) is the name to know. They are masters of creating unique and breathtaking dichroic patterned glass that can easily become the centerpiece of your work. Artists love CBS for their innovation and the sheer beauty of their coatings, which add incredible depth and complexity to fused pieces. Their products are designed to help you create extraordinary art with vibrant colors and mesmerizing effects. When you want to make a statement, exploring the CBS dichroic patterned glass collection is a fantastic place to start.

Spectrum and Uroboros Glass

In the world of glass fusing, Spectrum and Uroboros are household names. These two brands have built a solid reputation for producing reliable and beautiful COE 96 glass. Spectrum is celebrated for its consistent, vibrant colors, making it a dependable choice for any project. Uroboros, now produced as URO by Youghiogheny Glass, is known for its diverse range of textures and styles that cater to a wide variety of artistic needs. Both are essential brands for any artist working with COE 96 materials, ensuring compatibility and high-quality results every time. You can find more background on these industry staples at resources like Go Fusing.

Finding the Right Form and Size for Your Project

Once you’ve settled on a brand, the next step is to decide on the form of glass you need. COE 96 dichroic glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the right one for you really depends on your project and creative process. Are you planning a large, cohesive piece, or do you want a grab-bag of inspiration for smaller jewelry items? Thinking about your end goal will help you choose the perfect format and get the most value from your purchase. Let’s walk through the most common options you’ll find.

Full Sheets vs. Individual Pieces

If you value control and versatility, buying full sheets of glass is a fantastic choice. Sheets give you a clean slate to work from, allowing you to cut custom shapes and sizes tailored specifically to your design. They are typically sold in approximate sizes, like 4×4 or 8×8 inches, making them ideal for everything from statement pendants to larger fused art panels. While they require a bit more work since you’ll be doing all the cutting, sheets of COE 96 glass ensure your final piece has a consistent pattern and color. This is essential for more uniform designs or when you need multiple matching components for a jewelry set.

Getting Creative with Scraps and Remnants

For artists who love a good surprise or want to experiment without a big upfront investment, scrap packs are the way to go. These are assortments of leftover pieces from cutting larger sheets, and they offer an incredible variety of colors, textures, and patterns in one package. As one artist shared, “What a wonderful assortment of textures, prints, and solids!” Scrap is perfect for creating abstract designs, filling small spaces in mosaics, or making unique cabochons for jewelry. It’s a budget-friendly way to build your collection and let unexpected pieces spark new creative ideas without committing to a full sheet.

The Convenience of Pre-Cut Shapes

Want to get straight to the fun part? Pre-cut shapes are a huge time-saver. You can find everything from simple dots and squares to more intricate designs like hearts, animals, and flowers. These pieces are ready to be incorporated into your project right out of the bag, making them perfect for beginners or anyone working on a project with repeating elements. Using pre-cut shapes also guarantees clean, consistent lines that can be difficult to achieve by hand. They are a convenient and creative option that lets you focus on composition and firing rather than spending time at the grinder.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Budgeting for your next project is a big deal, and when it comes to dichroic glass, the price can seem all over the map. The good news is that there’s an option for every budget, whether you’re just starting out or stocking up your studio. The cost really depends on what you’re buying—from tiny scrap pieces to full sheets.

Understanding the factors that influence price, like size, pattern, and whether the glass is on a black or clear substrate, will help you make smart choices. It’s not about finding the cheapest option, but about finding the best value for your specific artistic needs. Let’s break down what you can expect to spend and how you can find some great deals along the way.

What Affects the Price of Dichroic Glass?

The cost of COE 96 dichroic glass is directly tied to its form and size. You can find small, individual pieces for just a few dollars, which is perfect for jewelry or adding small accents to a larger piece. For example, a single 2×2 inch square might cost around $5. On the other end, you might see large multi-packs or full sheets priced closer to $185. These larger quantities are great for artists who use a lot of dichroic glass or are working on bigger projects. You can see this wide range on different platforms, with some individual items starting as low as $3.50. It all comes down to how much glass you need and what you plan to create with it.

Why the Manufacturing Process Drives Cost

You might notice that dichroic glass has a higher price tag than standard sheet glass, and there’s a really cool reason for that. It’s not just colored glass; it’s a piece of high-tech art. The shimmering, color-shifting effect comes from a highly specialized manufacturing process. In a vacuum chamber, dozens of incredibly thin layers of metallic oxides, like titanium and chromium, are fused to the glass surface. We’re talking 30 to 50 layers, yet the total thickness is just a fraction of a human hair! This intricate layering is what manipulates light to create those stunning, dynamic colors. Because it’s so complex to make, the cost reflects the advanced technology and precision required. So, when you buy dichroic glass, you’re investing in a material that’s as much science as it is art.

How to Find Dichroic Glass on a Budget

If you love a good bargain, you’re in luck. There are several ways to get beautiful dichroic glass without breaking the bank. A great starting point is to look for scrap packs. These assortments offer a variety of colors and patterns at a lower price point than full sheets, and they’re fantastic for smaller projects or experimenting. Many online suppliers also have dedicated sale sections where you can find discounted items. For instance, some sites let you filter for sales to quickly see what’s available. Also, keep an eye out for special promotions like free shipping, which can make a big difference in your total cost, especially on larger orders.

Our Favorite COE 96 Dichroic Glass Picks

Sometimes the best way to find what you’ll love is to see what other artists are already using in their studios. When you’re shopping for materials, community favorites and best-sellers can point you toward high-quality, reliable glass that delivers stunning results. It’s like getting a recommendation from a trusted friend who has already done the testing for you. From full sheets that offer endless possibilities to curated scrap packs full of surprises, certain products just hit the mark time and time again.

Let’s look at some of the top-rated and most popular picks that fellow glass artists are raving about. These are the tried-and-true options that consistently earn a spot on workbenches for their brilliant color, unique textures, and incredible creative potential. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or looking for something new to spark your imagination, starting with what’s already popular is a great way to ensure you’re working with the best.

Top-Rated Sheet Collections

When you have a specific vision in mind, starting with a full sheet of dichroic glass gives you complete creative control. The most popular collections are known for their consistency and breathtaking effects. CBS Dichroic Sheet Glass is a perennial favorite, celebrated for its huge range of brilliant colors and captivating textures on both black and clear substrates. Artists love the reliability and the way it transforms in the kiln. Having a selection of these COE 96 glass sheets on hand means you’re always ready when inspiration strikes, whether you’re creating a large focal piece or cutting custom components for intricate jewelry.

Fan-Favorite Scrap Assortments

If you love a good surprise, scrap assortments are for you. These packs are a treasure hunt in a box and a fantastic way to build your collection with unique pieces you might not have chosen otherwise. Our CBS Dichroic Scrap assortments are a huge hit, and we constantly hear from customers who love the wonderful variety of textures, prints, and solid colors they receive. These packs are perfect for adding that one-of-a-kind sparkle to your work. The exceptional quality of the COE 96 glass in these assortments makes them a go-to for artists looking to experiment with new effects without committing to a full sheet.

The Best Dichroic Glass for Beginners

Getting started with dichroic glass shouldn’t be intimidating. If you’re new to the medium, you don’t need to buy large, expensive sheets to begin creating. Smaller pieces and starter packs are the perfect entry point, allowing you to experiment with different colors and textures on a budget. This approach lets you learn how the glass behaves in your kiln and discover what effects you love most. Our scrap assortments are an excellent choice for beginners, but you can also explore pre-cut glass shapes to get started with fun, manageable projects right away.

How to Choose the Right COE 96 Dichroic Glass

Finding the perfect piece of dichroic glass feels a bit like a treasure hunt. The way it flashes with different colors is just mesmerizing. But choosing the right one for your project goes beyond picking the prettiest shimmer. To make sure your final piece turns out exactly as you envision, you’ll want to think about a few key things: the quality of the glass, how its color might change in the kiln, and what size and shape will work best for your design. Thinking through these points before you buy will save you time and money. Let’s walk through what to look for.

What Does High-Quality Dichroic Glass Look Like?

When it comes to glass art, quality is everything. Using high-quality dichroic glass ensures your colors will be vibrant, the coating will be even, and your finished piece will be strong. Sourcing from a reputable supplier is the best way to guarantee you’re getting top-notch materials. As one artist shared, “I Received CBS Dichroic Scrap. What a wonderful assortment of textures, prints, and solids! … 96 COE of this caliber and quality is not so easy to find.” This highlights how important it is to find a trusted source. When you’re shopping, look for glass that is clear and free of blemishes. Consistent, high-quality COE 96 glass will give you reliable and beautiful results.

Choosing Your Color Shift and Substrate

Here’s a little secret about dichroic glass: the color you see before firing isn’t always the color you’ll get after. The intense heat of the kiln can cause the colors and patterns to shift. This is part of the magic, but it’s good to be prepared! The substrate, or the base glass the dichroic coating is on, also plays a huge role. A coating on black glass will look completely different than the same coating on clear glass. Before you commit an expensive piece to a big project, it’s a great idea to do a small test fire. This helps you understand exactly how your CBS dichroic glass will transform and ensures the final color is just what you wanted.

How to Pick the Right Size and Quantity

Dichroic glass comes in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for any project. If you’re creating jewelry or small accents, buying a pack of dichroic scrap is a cost-effective way to get a variety of colors and patterns. For larger projects, like a fused plate or panel, purchasing glass in standard sheets makes more sense. Think about your project’s needs before you buy to get the right amount of glass without overspending. You can even find pre-cut glass shapes to make your creative process even smoother.

Why Seeing a Physical Sample Matters

Shopping for dichroic glass online is convenient, but photos on a screen can only tell you part of the story. Dichroic glass is famous for its “chameleon effect,” where the colors seem to shift and change depending on your viewing angle and the light source. This is due to the high-tech coating process, which NASA originally developed for space applications. Holding a physical sample in your hand is the only way to truly appreciate this dynamic quality. You can turn it in the light, see how the colors flash, and get a real feel for its texture and depth before committing it to your final design.

Beyond how it looks in the light, the real transformation happens in the kiln. The intense heat can cause the colors and patterns to shift, creating a completely unique finish. This is why test firing a small piece is a non-negotiable step for many experienced artists. Firing a sample of your COE 96 glass shows you exactly how it will transform, preventing any unwanted surprises in your final artwork. This simple step can save you from disappointment and wasted materials on a larger piece, ensuring the dazzling effect you envisioned is the one you actually get.

Tips for Fusing COE 96 Dichroic Glass

Once you have your beautiful COE 96 dichroic glass, the real fun begins. Fusing this type of glass can feel like a magical science experiment, but getting those jaw-dropping results you’re dreaming of takes a little know-how. It’s not just about picking pretty colors; it’s about understanding how the glass behaves in the heat and how it plays with other materials. Don’t worry, it’s less complicated than it sounds! With a few key practices in your back pocket, you’ll be pulling professional-looking, shimmering masterpieces out of your kiln in no time.

The key to success lies in three main areas: your firing process, the glass you pair it with, and how you handle it. Think of it as a recipe—if you get the ingredients and the oven temperature right, you’re set for a great outcome. A little bit of planning goes a long way and can save you from the heartache of a cracked or muddy-looking piece. Mastering these fundamentals will give you the confidence to experiment with more complex designs and techniques. Let’s walk through the most important tips for making your dichroic glass projects a success, so you can spend less time troubleshooting and more time creating stunning art.

Nail Your Firing Schedule

The magic of dichroic glass truly reveals itself in the kiln, but this is also where things can get tricky. The colors and patterns you see on the raw glass can shift dramatically during firing. A vibrant rainbow coating might transform into a completely different set of hues once it reaches temperature. This is why your firing schedule is so critical. I always recommend running a few small test pieces first, especially when using a new type of dichroic glass. This helps you understand how it will react in your specific kiln and allows you to adjust your schedule to get the exact effect you want. Keep a notebook to track your schedules and results—it will become an invaluable resource.

How to Check for Glass Compatibility

This might be the golden rule of glass fusing: always, always check for compatibility. COE 96 dichroic glass needs to be fused with other glass that has the same Coefficient of Expansion—in this case, COE 96. Mixing different COEs is a recipe for disaster. Because glasses with different COEs expand and contract at different rates when heated and cooled, an incompatible piece will almost certainly crack or shatter under the stress. It can happen in the kiln or even weeks later! To avoid this heartbreak, make sure you’re only using glass from our COE 96 collection when working on a project. It’s a simple step that guarantees the structural integrity of your finished art.

Embracing the Uniqueness of Each Firing

One of the most exciting parts of working with dichroic glass is that every trip to the kiln can bring a little surprise. The intense heat causes the colors and patterns to shift, meaning the piece you pull out might look quite different from the one you put in. This isn’t a mistake—it’s the very thing that gives dichroic glass its incredible depth and shimmer. Instead of fighting this unpredictability, lean into it. This dynamic quality is what makes each creation truly one-of-a-kind. To get a better sense of what to expect, run a small test piece before committing to your main project. This helps you preview the transformation and ensures you can work with the magic, not against it, to create something stunning.

Simple Safety Tips for Handling Glass

Working with glass is incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to always put safety first. Glass is sharp, and small shards can be difficult to see. I always wear safety glasses to protect my eyes from any flying chips, especially when cutting or grinding. It’s also a good idea to handle the edges of your dichroic sheets carefully. While the metallic coating is durable, you want to avoid scratching it before it even makes it to the kiln. Keep your workspace clean and well-lit to easily spot any stray pieces of glass. A little bit of caution goes a long way in making sure your studio time is both productive and safe, letting you focus on the creative process.

Where Can You Buy COE 96 Dichroic Glass Online?

Finding the right online shop for your glass supplies can make all the difference in your creative process. You need a retailer that not only has a great selection but also provides quality products and reliable service. When you’re ready to buy, knowing where to look and what to look for will help you shop with confidence.

### Finding a Specialized Supplier

While you might find dichroic glass in general craft stores or on large online marketplaces, I always recommend going to a specialized supplier. A retailer that focuses solely on glass art just gets it. They understand that you need high-quality materials that fire predictably and are free from the tiny imperfections that could ruin a piece. This is where you’ll find a much deeper and more reliable selection of COE 96 glass, from trusted brands like CBS to all the different forms you might need for a project. Choosing a supplier that lives and breathes glass art means you’re not just buying a product; you’re tapping into a resource curated for artists. It ensures your finished work is both stunning and structurally sound, which is what we all want.

Why Shop with ArtGlassSupplies.com?

When you’re investing in materials for your art, you want to buy from a place you can trust. We’re proud of the quality and variety we offer, especially when it comes to specialty items. Our customers often share how happy they are with their purchases, and their feedback speaks volumes. As one artist told us after receiving their order, “What a wonderful assortment of textures, prints, and solids! Thank you! 96 COE of this caliber and quality is not so easy to find.” You can read more customer testimonials to see why so many artists rely on us for their glass needs.

What to Look for in an Online Retailer

A great online retailer should have a wide selection of COE 96 glass, but it’s also important to pay attention to product availability. When you’re planning a project, the last thing you want is an unexpected delay. Keep in mind that for most online stores, “products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed.” If you have your heart set on a specific piece of dichroic glass for a time-sensitive project, it’s always a smart idea to contact the retailer directly to confirm they have it on hand before you place your order.

Decoding Shipping and Return Policies

Ordering glass online can feel a bit nerve-wracking—it’s a fragile material, after all! That’s why clear shipping and return policies are non-negotiable. Before you buy, take a moment to read through the retailer’s policies so you know what to expect. It’s also helpful to look for customer reviews that mention the shopping experience. Seeing feedback like, “5/5 Item quality. 5/5 Shipping. 5/5 Customer service,” from verified buyers is a fantastic sign. It tells you the company not only delivers high-quality products but also packs them carefully and provides support when you need it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real difference between COE 96 and COE 90 glass? Think of them as two different languages that don’t mix. Neither one is better than the other, they just have different properties. COE 96 is known for being very user-friendly and is compatible with a huge variety of glass from many manufacturers, which is why it’s so popular. COE 90 is the standard for other major brands, like Bullseye Glass. The most important rule is to never mix them in a single fusing project, as they expand and shrink at different rates and will cause your piece to crack.

Does the dichroic coating make the glass harder to cut? Not at all! The metallic coating is incredibly thin, so you can score and break dichroic glass just like any other piece of sheet glass. Some artists prefer to score on the non-coated side to avoid any chance of scratching the surface, but a good, sharp cutter will work perfectly on either side. The process is the same, so you don’t need any special tools or techniques.

Why does it matter if the dichroic glass is on a black or clear base? The base glass, or substrate, completely changes the final look of the dichroic coating. A black base acts like a mirror, reflecting light back through the coating and making the colors appear very bold, vibrant, and opaque. A clear base allows light to pass through, creating a more transparent, ethereal shimmer. Your choice really depends on the effect you’re going for in your final piece.

Can I fuse the dichroic coating face up and face down? Yes, and you’ll get different results with each method. Fusing with the coated side facing up preserves more of the original metallic texture and sheen. When you fuse the coating face down against another piece of glass, it encases the coating and creates a super smooth, glossy surface. This can also subtly alter the color, so it’s a great idea to run a small test fire to see which look you prefer.

Is buying “scrap” dichroic glass a good idea, or is it lower quality? Scrap is one of the best deals you can find! It is not lower-quality glass. It’s simply the leftover pieces from cutting down larger, high-quality sheets. Buying scrap packs is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to get a wide assortment of colors, textures, and patterns without committing to a full sheet. It’s perfect for making jewelry or for artists who love to experiment with unexpected combinations.