Sometimes the best creative breakthroughs come from the most unexpected places. Opening a Glass Scrap Pack can feel like a treasure hunt, where each color and shape sparks a new idea. Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Scrap glass is the perfect low-pressure way to experiment with color theory, test new fusing techniques, or just make something beautiful for fun. A pack of COE 96 fusible glass scrap gives you a surprise mix of compatible materials, perfect for making jewelry or small suncatchers. These little remnants are proof that you don’t need a rigid plan to create your next favorite piece.

Key Takeaways

• Stick to a Single COE for Success: The most important rule in glass fusing is to use glass with the same COE throughout a single project. Mixing COE 96 with any other rating will create internal stress as the piece cools, causing it to crack.
• Use Scrap Packs to Experiment Affordably: Scrap packs are a cost-effective way to build your color palette and test new techniques. They are ideal for smaller projects like jewelry and decorative accents without the commitment of buying full sheets of glass.
• Verify, Organize, and Work Safely: Always confirm a scrap pack is labeled COE 96 before you buy. Keep your glass sorted by COE in your studio to prevent mix-ups, and always wear safety glasses when cutting or handling glass.

A Quick Primer on Glass

What is Glass, Exactly?

Before you start cutting and fusing, it helps to know a little about the amazing material you’re working with. So, what is glass? At its core, glass is a special type of solid material known as non-crystalline. This means its atoms are arranged in a random, jumbled-up way, unlike a crystal where atoms form a neat, repeating pattern. This unique structure is what gives glass its signature properties, like being transparent and generally unreactive to chemicals. For artists, this atomic arrangement is key because it allows glass to soften when heated in a kiln and be shaped, fused, or slumped without melting into a puddle like ice. It’s this predictable behavior that lets you create stunning, durable works of art.

How Glass Gets Its Color

Have you ever wondered how a sheet of glass gets its brilliant ruby red or deep cobalt blue hue? The secret lies in chemistry. The vibrant colors you see in art glass are created by adding small amounts of metal oxides to the molten glass mixture. Think of it like adding spices to a recipe. For example, a touch of cobalt oxide creates a stunning blue, while iron oxide can produce shades of green and amber. Gold is famously used to make rich cranberry pink and ruby red glass. These metal oxides become part of the glass’s molecular structure, creating the consistent, beautiful colors we rely on for our projects, from intricate stained glass panels to colorful fused jewelry.

Debunking a Common Myth: Does Glass Flow?

You’ve probably heard the old story that glass in ancient cathedral windows is thicker at the bottom because glass is a slow-moving liquid that has flowed downward over centuries. It’s a romantic idea, but it’s simply not true. Glass is a solid, and it does not flow at room temperature. The reason old window panes are often uneven is due to the historical glass-making processes, which couldn’t produce the perfectly uniform sheets we have today. Panes were often installed with the thicker, heavier edge at the bottom for better stability in the window frame. So, you can rest easy knowing the beautiful COE 96 glass on your shelf will stay exactly as it is, ready for your next project.

What is COE 96 Glass (And Why Does It Matter)?

Before you start dreaming of all the beautiful things you can create with a glass scrap pack, we need to talk about a technical detail that can make or break your project: the COE. Understanding this simple number is the key to successful glass fusing. Think of it as the golden rule of glass art. When you see a product labeled as COE 96, it’s not just a random number—it’s a promise of compatibility. It tells you that different pieces of glass will play nicely together in the heat of the kiln, expanding and contracting at the same rate to form a single, solid piece.

What is Coefficient of Expansion (COE)?

Let’s get the science out of the way. COE, or Coefficient of Expansion, is simply a measurement of how much a material expands when it gets hot and shrinks when it cools down. In glass fusing, this is everything. All glass marked as COE 96 expands at a rate of 96 x 10⁻⁷ per degree Celsius. What that really means for you is that all glasses with a COE of 96 are designed to work together without causing stress, cracks, or compatibility issues. When you fire compatible glass in a kiln, the pieces melt and fuse into one another seamlessly, creating a strong, unified final product.

Why Matching Your COE is Non-Negotiable

Here’s where that golden rule comes in: you absolutely cannot mix glass with different COE ratings in the same fusing project. Fusing a piece of COE 90 glass with your COE 96 project is one of the most common mistakes, and it will almost certainly lead to breakage. Even the tiniest shard or sprinkle of an incompatible glass can introduce stress as the piece cools, causing it to crack—sometimes hours or even days after it comes out of the kiln. To avoid this heartbreaking outcome, you have to stick to a single COE system for your entire project. It’s the best way to ensure your hard work and beautiful designs turn into lasting art.

Why Buy a COE 96 Glass Scrap Pack?

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a full sheet of glass, wondering if you really need that much of one color for a small project, then a scrap pack might be your new best friend. These curated collections of off-cuts and remnants are more than just leftovers; they’re a treasure trove of creative potential. For glass fusers, jewelry makers, and mosaic artists, scrap packs offer a practical and inspiring way to expand your material palette. They give you the freedom to play with color and texture without the commitment of buying large, expensive sheets. Let’s look at a few reasons why adding a COE 96 glass scrap pack to your studio is a brilliant move.

Stretch Your Art Budget Further

Let’s be honest: this is a big one. Building a diverse glass collection can get pricey, fast. Scrap packs are a fantastic, budget-friendly way to get your hands on high-quality, fusible glass for a fraction of the cost of full sheets. Because the glass is intended for fusing projects, especially smaller ones, it’s an incredibly economical choice for artists at any level. Whether you’re making jewelry, small decorative plates, or adding accents to a larger piece, you get the beautiful glass you need without the hefty price tag. It’s the perfect way to stock your studio with a variety of colors and styles without draining your art budget.

Experiment with a Rainbow of Colors

One of the best parts of opening a scrap pack is the surprise and delight of discovering the colors inside. These packs often contain a vibrant mix of shades, from black, white, and clear to bold reds, blues, and yellows. This variety gives you an amazing opportunity to experiment with color combinations you might not have tried otherwise. Instead of committing to a full sheet of a color you’re unsure about, you can test it out in a smaller format. This freedom to play is essential for creative growth, allowing you to discover new palettes and bring unexpected pops of color to your work.

Test New Ideas Without the Commitment

Scrap packs are practically made for artists who love working on a smaller scale or testing new techniques. If you’re a glass fuser who needs small pieces for your projects, these packs are an invaluable resource. They’re perfect for creating cabochons for jewelry, intricate mosaic details, or testing how different colors react in the kiln. For beginners, scrap packs offer a low-risk way to learn the craft without the fear of wasting a large, expensive piece of glass. For seasoned artists, they provide the perfect material for innovating and prototyping new designs before scaling up.

Create Sustainably and Reduce Waste

Choosing a scrap pack is also a choice you can feel good about. Many suppliers create these packs by collecting the leftover glass from their cutting processes, turning potential waste into a valuable resource for artists. By purchasing scrap, you’re participating in a more sustainable practice and helping to reduce the environmental footprint of the art supply industry. It’s a smart way to support a circular economy where materials are used to their fullest potential. You get beautiful, usable glass for your projects, and together, we help keep perfectly good materials out of the landfill. It’s a win-win for creativity and the planet.

Exploring the Variety of Glass Scrap Packs

Not all scrap packs are created equal, and that’s a good thing for artists. The variety means you can find the perfect mix for whatever you’re dreaming up, whether it’s a set of shimmering earrings or a colorful mosaic. Think of scrap packs as curated collections, each with its own personality. Some are sorted by their COE, while others are grouped by special finishes like dichroic coatings or even by the thickness of the glass itself. Understanding these differences is the key to choosing a pack that not only inspires you but also works perfectly for your intended project. Let’s break down the most common types you’ll find.

COE 90 vs. COE 96 Scrap Packs

The first and most important distinction you’ll encounter is the COE. As we covered, sticking to one COE is the golden rule of fusing. Because of this, scrap packs are always sorted into compatible systems. You’ll find packs specifically labeled as COE 96 and others labeled as COE 90. Neither is better than the other; they are simply two different, incompatible families of glass. Your choice will depend on the glass you already have in your studio or the system you’ve decided to work with. If your entire collection is COE 96, then you’ll want to stick with COE 96 scrap packs to expand your palette without risking a cracked project.

Specialty and Dichroic Scrap Packs

This is where things get really exciting. Beyond standard colors, you can find scrap packs filled with specialty glass, most notably dichroic glass. Dichroic glass has a micro-thin layer of metallic oxides that gives it a stunning, color-shifting shimmer. A full sheet can be a significant investment, which makes dichroic scrap packs an amazing value. They allow you to add that magical, eye-catching sparkle to your work without committing to a large piece. These packs are perfect for creating focal points in larger designs or for making dazzling jewelry that looks incredibly high-end. It’s a great way to get many different colors and styles of glass in one go.

From “Dichro-Dazzle” to “Experimental” Glass

Within the world of dichroic scrap, you can find even more unique options. Some suppliers offer “experimental” packs that contain one-of-a-kind dichroic coatings that weren’t part of a standard production run. These pieces are truly unique, offering patterns and color combinations you won’t find anywhere else. Buying an experimental pack is like a treasure hunt for the glass artist; you might discover an effect so special it becomes the centerpiece of your next creation. It’s a fantastic way to ensure your work is completely original and stands out from the crowd, giving you access to materials that are as unique as your artistic vision.

Packs by Base and Thickness

Beyond color and COE, scrap packs can also be sorted by the physical properties of the glass. Two key characteristics to look for are the base color (especially for dichroic glass) and the thickness. These details might seem small, but they have a huge impact on how you can use the glass and what the final result will look like. Paying attention to these factors allows you to select scrap that is perfectly suited for layering, structural support, or achieving a specific visual effect in your fused pieces. It’s another layer of control that helps you get exactly the material you need for your project.

Clear vs. Black Base Glass

When you’re working with dichroic glass, the base it’s coated on makes a world of difference. Dichroic on a clear base has a transparent, ethereal quality, allowing light to pass through and creating a delicate shimmer. It’s perfect for layering over other colors. Dichroic on a black base, however, is all about drama. The opaque black background makes the metallic coating pop with intense, vibrant color and reflection. Neither is better, but they create completely different effects, so you can choose based on whether you want your piece to be subtle and translucent or bold and brilliant.

Standard vs. Thin Glass

You may also find scrap packs sorted by thickness. Most standard glass is about 3mm thick, which provides good stability and is perfect for a base layer or a single-layer piece. Thin glass, often 2mm thick, is an excellent choice for layering. When you’re creating intricate designs with multiple layers of glass, using thin pieces helps you build up detail and color without creating a final piece that is too thick or bulky. This is especially useful for jewelry makers who need to manage the final weight and profile of their creations before firing them in their kilns.

Scrap Packs for Jewelry Making

Given their small size and incredible variety, it’s no surprise that scrap packs are a jewelry maker’s dream. The pieces are often perfectly sized for creating pendants, earrings, and cabochons in small molds, saving you time on cutting. Dichroic and specialty scrap packs are particularly popular for this, as even a tiny piece of shimmering glass can be transformed into a stunning, high-value piece of jewelry. Using scrap is an economical and creative way to produce a whole collection of unique accessories, with each piece having its own distinct combination of colors and patterns drawn from the surprise assortment in the pack. It’s an ideal way to experiment with designs for your next collection.

Where to Find the Best COE 96 Scrap Packs

Once you’re ready to start building your collection, you’ll find plenty of great options for COE 96 scrap packs. From specialty retailers to the manufacturers themselves, there are several places to find high-quality, compatible glass for your next project. Here are a few of the most popular sources artists turn to for their fusible scrap glass.

ArtGlassSupplies.com COE 96 Scrap Collections

We’re passionate about glass, so naturally, we offer a fantastic variety of COE 96 scrap packs right here. We know how critical it is to use glass with the same COE, which is why we put together a comprehensive fuser’s guide to COE 96 compatibility. Our scrap collections are carefully curated to give you a diverse mix of colors, textures, and sizes, perfect for adding that special touch to your work. Whether you’re filling a mold or creating a detailed mosaic, you can trust that our glass is compatible and ready for the kiln. It’s a great way to explore new possibilities without committing to full sheets.

COE 90 and COE 96 Options

While this guide focuses on COE 96, it’s important to know it has a popular counterpart: COE 90. The two systems are like different languages—they simply don’t mix. Because they expand and contract at different rates, fusing them together will create internal stress and cause your beautiful work to crack as it cools. Here at ArtGlassSupplies.com, we cater to artists working in both standards, offering a massive inventory of COE 90 glass from brands like Bullseye, in addition to our wide range of COE 96 options. The key takeaway is consistency. Whichever system you choose for a project, you must stick with it for every single component, from the base sheet to the tiniest stringer or piece of frit. Keeping your glass clearly labeled and organized in your studio is the best way to prevent a costly and heartbreaking mix-up.

Bullseye Glass Remnants

Many artists love Bullseye Glass for its exceptional quality, but it’s important to know that Bullseye is a COE 90 glass. While they offer remnants that are perfect for fusing, you cannot mix them with your COE 96 glass. This is a perfect example of why knowing your supplier and your glass is so important! Some artists work in both COE 90 and COE 96, keeping their scrap meticulously separated. If you see a pack of “Bullseye remnants,” you can be almost certain it’s COE 90. Always start a project with a known base glass to ensure compatibility and get the beautiful results you’re looking for.

System 96 Scrap Options

If you’re looking for a reliable source dedicated specifically to COE 96, System 96 is a fantastic choice. Many suppliers offer convenient scrap packs from the System 96 family of glass, which often contain around 1.5 pounds of assorted fusing glass. These packs are an excellent way to experiment with a wide range of colors and textures from a brand you know is compatible. It takes the guesswork out of the equation. Getting a pre-packaged assortment is perfect for when you want to play with new design ideas or need a variety of small pieces for a detailed project without having to buy several large sheets of glass.

Oceanside Glass Scrap Packs

Oceanside Glass & Tile is another giant in the world of COE 96 glass, and their scrap packs are a treasure for any artist. What makes them special is that many of their scrap packs are created from the leftovers of their waterjet cutting process. This means you get access to high-quality, fusible glass while also supporting a more sustainable practice that reduces waste. These packs often contain unique shapes and sizes you wouldn’t get otherwise, making them a wonderful resource for adding unexpected elements to your work. It’s a win-win: you get beautiful, unique glass pieces, and less material ends up in the landfill.

How Much Do COE 96 Scrap Packs Cost?

One of the best things about working with scrap glass is how affordable it is. But how much should you expect to pay? The price of COE 96 glass scrap packs can vary quite a bit, depending on where you buy them and what’s inside. Let’s break down the typical costs and what factors play into the final price tag, so you can find a pack that fits your budget and your project.

Breaking Down the Cost

You can find scrap packs at nearly every price point. Smaller sample bags might start as low as $6, making them a great way to try out new colors without a big investment. On the other end, you’ll see larger, curated bags or boxes going for $65 or more. Most suppliers sell scrap by weight, so you’ll often see prices listed per pound. This makes it easy to compare value between different options. Whether you need just a handful of pieces for a jewelry project or several pounds for a larger mosaic, there’s a scrap pack out there for you.

Common Pack Sizes and Price Points

When you start shopping for scrap, you’ll notice that packs are typically sold by weight. Common sizes range from smaller 4-ounce or half-pound bags to larger boxes containing a pound or more of glass. The price generally reflects the weight and the type of glass included. For a standard assortment of colors, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $60. However, if you’re looking for something special, like a pack filled with shimmering dichroic glass, the price will be higher. These specialty packs can range from around $28 for a small collection to over $100 for larger, more unique assortments. It’s always a good idea to check the product description to understand exactly what kind of COE 96 glass you’re getting for the price.

What Influences the Final Price?

Not all scrap packs are created equal, and a few key things can affect the cost. The source of the glass is a big one—scraps from premium manufacturers or leftovers from intricate waterjet cutting might cost a little more. The contents also matter. A random assortment of colors will usually be cheaper than a pack sorted by color family. If a pack contains specialty glass, like shimmering dichroic pieces, expect the price to be higher. Finally, the brand name can play a role, as scraps from well-known glassmakers are often in higher demand.

How to Find the Best Deals

Everyone loves a good deal, and there are a few smart ways to save on scrap glass. Buying in larger quantities often brings down the cost per pound, so consider stocking up if you have the space. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, like Black Friday sales, when many suppliers offer discounts. You can also save on shipping costs by bundling your scrap pack with other supplies to meet the minimum for free shipping. The easiest way to stay in the loop is to sign up for your favorite supplier’s newsletter to get sale alerts sent right to your inbox.

How to Choose the Right Glass Scrap Pack

With so many options out there, picking the perfect scrap pack can feel like a treasure hunt. And in many ways, it is! But a little strategy goes a long way in making sure you get a haul you’ll actually use. Thinking about your project goals before you click “buy” will help you find a pack that inspires you and sets you up for a successful firing. From color palettes to pack sizes, here’s what to keep in mind to find the right collection of glass scraps for your studio.

Match the Glass to Your Vision

One of the best parts of buying a scrap pack is the surprise assortment of colors and textures you get to play with. A great pack will give you a wide spectrum to work with, often including staples like black, white, and clear alongside vibrant reds, blues, and yellows. This variety is your ticket to creative freedom, letting you experiment with color combinations you might not have tried otherwise. When you’re browsing, look at the product photos and descriptions to get a feel for the color families included. A good mix of transparent, opaque, and even dichroic COE 96 glass will give you the most flexibility for your designs.

How Big of a Pack Do You Need?

Scrap packs come in various weights, and it’s important to match the size to your project’s scale. Many packs are sold in 1- to 2-pound bags, which is often perfect for creating jewelry, small suncatchers, or accent tiles. If you’re planning a larger piece, like a fused glass bowl or a decorative panel, you might need to purchase a larger pack or multiple smaller ones. Before you shop, think about the molds you plan to use or the dimensions of your design. This will help you estimate how much glass you’ll need and ensure you don’t run out mid-project.

What to Look For in a Quality Pack

When it comes to fusible glass, quality and compatibility are everything. The most important thing to look for is a clear label stating the glass is COE 96. This number is your guarantee that all the pieces in the pack will expand and contract at the same rate when fired in a kiln, preventing cracks and ensuring a strong, stable final piece. Reputable suppliers will always specify the COE. If a listing is vague or doesn’t mention it, it’s best to move on. Sticking to clearly labeled COE 96 packs is the easiest way to avoid a disappointing (and cracked) outcome.

A Note on Product Photos vs. Reality

As you browse online, it’s easy to get excited by the vibrant product photos of scrap packs. While these images give you a great idea of the color palette and quality, it’s important to remember they are just examples. Since every scrap pack is a one-of-a-kind assortment, the specific shapes, sizes, and colors you receive will be a unique surprise. The pictures on the website are a helpful guide, but the actual glass in your box will look a bit different. Don’t let the term “scrap” fool you; this is high-quality, usable COE 96 glass that’s perfect for your projects. Embracing this element of surprise is part of the fun and can often lead to your most creative work.

Don’t Skip the Customer Reviews

A little social proof can be incredibly helpful. Before committing to a purchase, take a moment to read reviews from other glass artists. Customer feedback often provides honest insights into the quality of the glass, the accuracy of the color descriptions, and the variety of piece sizes in the pack. You can learn if the scraps were well-packaged, if the colors were as vibrant as pictured, and if other artists found them easy to work with. Positive reviews, especially from people who mention using the glass for fusing, are a great sign that you’re looking at a quality product.

What to Know About Shipping and Returns

Okay, let’s talk logistics. Ordering something as fragile as glass online can feel like a bit of a gamble, but knowing what to expect with shipping and returns can take the stress out of the process. A reputable supplier will take great care in getting your beautiful glass to you safely, but it’s always good to be prepared. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should know before you click “buy.”

How Your Glass is Packed and Shipped

When your COE 96 scrap pack arrives, you’ll typically find it in a bag containing about 1.5 pounds of assorted glass pieces. These aren’t just random shards; they’re often high-quality remnants from larger sheets or pieces left over after waterjet cutting. This is great for a couple of reasons: it’s a more sustainable way to use glass, and you get a fantastic, unique variety of colors and textures that you might not find otherwise. Every pack is a surprise! We take great care to ensure your glass is packed securely, but it’s always a good idea to review a company’s specific shipping policies before ordering.

What If Your Glass Arrives Broken?

Even with the best packing, accidents can happen. The first thing to do if your glass arrives damaged is to contact the seller immediately. Don’t hesitate—most suppliers are more than willing to work with you on a replacement or refund. It’s also smart to familiarize yourself with the return policy beforehand. Some sellers offer extended return windows, especially around the holidays, which is a nice perk if you’re buying gifts or stocking up. A clear and fair return process is the sign of a company that stands behind its products and values its customers, so you can feel confident in your purchase.

Ordering from Outside the US?

If you’re an artist ordering from outside the United States, there are a couple of extra things to keep in mind. International orders often come with additional shipping costs and potential duty fees depending on your country’s regulations. It’s a good practice to factor these potential expenses into your budget so there are no surprises when your package arrives. On the bright side, many suppliers are very fair with their shipping calculations. If you happen to be overcharged for postage, a good company will often refund the difference, ensuring you only pay what’s necessary to get your supplies safely to your studio.

Common (and Costly) Mistakes to Avoid

Working with glass is incredibly rewarding, but a few simple missteps can turn a promising project into a pile of shattered dreams (and glass). We’ve all been there! Learning from these common mistakes will save you time, money, and the frustration of a project cracking in the kiln. By being mindful of a few key details, you can ensure your creative process is smooth and successful from start to finish. Let’s walk through the most important things to keep in mind when you dive into your new scrap pack.

Never Mix Your COE Ratings

This is the golden rule of glass fusing. Fusing a piece of COE 90 glass with your COE 96 glass project is the most common mistake, and it will lead to breakage. Why? Because glass with different COE ratings expands and contracts at different rates when heated and cooled. When you fuse incompatible glasses together, immense stress builds up as the piece cools, causing it to crack or even shatter. Even a tiny sliver of the wrong glass can ruin your entire piece. Always keep your glass scraps sorted by COE to prevent any heartbreaking mix-ups in your studio.

Keeping Fusible and Non-Fusible Glass Separate

It’s also important to remember that not all glass in an art studio is meant for the kiln. Many artists work with traditional stained glass, which is not tested for fusing compatibility and should never find its way into your kiln. Its chemical makeup is different, and mixing it into a fusing project will cause the same internal stress and cracking as mixing different COEs. To prevent this costly mistake, create a clear organization system in your studio. Store your non-fusible glass in a completely separate area from your fusible scraps. A simple, bold label like “NOT FOR FUSING” on your stained glass storage bin can be a project-saver, especially when you’re in the creative zone and grabbing pieces quickly.

Always Test for Compatibility

The most important rule in fusing is to use glass with the same COE for your entire project. Mixing different COEs creates immense internal stress as the glass cools. While scrap packs from a single manufacturer are generally compatible, it’s a great habit to test any glass you’re unsure about. This is especially true if you’re combining scraps from different sources. You can perform a simple test by fusing a small piece of the scrap glass to a piece of glass you know is COE 96. After it cools, check for any signs of stress or cracking. This small step can save you from sacrificing a larger, more complex project.

How to Properly Store and Handle Your Glass

Your beautiful glass scraps deserve a safe home before they become art. Proper storage is key to preventing mix-ups and accidents. I recommend using clearly labeled bins or containers to keep your COE 96 scraps separate from other glass types, like stained glass or COE 90. When handling the glass, remember that the edges can be incredibly sharp. It’s always a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts. Before you start a project, make sure to clean your glass thoroughly to remove any dust, oils, or marker residue, as these can interfere with the fusing process and cause imperfections in your finished piece.

Your Essential Safety Checklist

Glass is stunning, but it can be sharp and dangerous. Prioritizing your safety is the most important part of the creative process. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when cutting, grinding, or breaking glass—no exceptions! Tiny shards can fly farther than you think. Use gloves when handling raw sheet glass or cleaning up scrap pieces to avoid cuts. When it’s time to fire your project in the kiln, make sure your workspace has proper ventilation, as some materials can release fumes. Following these simple safety precautions ensures you can focus on your art without worrying about injuries, letting you enjoy your time in the studio.

Look Before You Reach Into a Bin

It’s so tempting to plunge your hands into a bin of colorful glass scraps to find that perfect piece, but this is one of the easiest ways to get a nasty cut. Always be careful when handling scrap glass. The edges can be razor-sharp, and tiny, almost invisible slivers can hide among the larger pieces. Before you reach in, take a moment to visually inspect the contents. A better practice is to gently pour some of the scraps out onto a protected work surface. This lets you see exactly what you’re working with and allows you to sort through the pieces safely, protecting your fingers from unexpected sharp points and edges as you search for your next inspiration.

Use a Stick to Stir, Not Your Hands

If you need to sift through a deeper container of scrap glass to find a specific color or shape, resist the urge to use your fingers. Instead, grab a simple tool to do the work for you. As a general safety rule in any glass studio, you should use a tool like a wooden dowel, a stick, or even the handle of a screwdriver to stir through the glass. This simple habit creates a safe distance between your hands and the unpredictable sharp edges lurking in the pile. It’s a small change in your process that can prevent painful cuts, allowing you to spend more time creating and less time searching for bandages. Keep a designated “stirring stick” near your scrap bins so it’s always within reach.

How to Get the Most from Your Glass Scrap Pack

Opening a new scrap pack feels like a treasure hunt. Inside that box is a vibrant collection of colors, textures, and possibilities just waiting to be discovered. But how do you go from a pile of beautiful remnants to a finished piece of art? It’s all about having a plan. With a little organization and the right approach, you can transform those odds and ends into stunning jewelry, decorative accents, and unique fused glass creations.

Think of your scrap pack as a creative starter kit. It’s your chance to play with colors you might not have chosen yourself and to test new techniques without committing to a full sheet of glass. The key is to treat these scraps with the same care and attention you’d give any other material in your studio. By gathering your tools, prepping your glass correctly, and organizing your collection, you set yourself up for a smooth and enjoyable creative process. Let’s walk through the steps to make the most of every last piece.

Your Must-Have Tools and Supplies

Before you can turn your glass fusing ideas into reality, you’ll need a few basic tools. You don’t need a huge, elaborate studio to work with scraps; a dedicated corner of a room will do. Start with a quality glass cutter and running pliers for scoring and breaking pieces cleanly. Safety glasses are an absolute must—always protect your eyes. You’ll also need a kiln suitable for glass fusing. There are many small, affordable kilns perfect for jewelry and small projects. Finally, have some kiln wash and a shelf ready to prevent your projects from sticking during firing.

Prepping Your Glass for a Perfect Fuse

Proper preparation is the secret to a successful firing. The most important rule in glass fusing is to use glass with the same COE for your entire project. Since you’re working with a COE 96 glass scrap pack, you’re already on the right track. Mixing different COEs creates immense internal stress as the glass cools, which can cause your piece to crack or even shatter. Before you fire, make sure every piece of glass is thoroughly cleaned with a lint-free cloth and a good glass cleaner to remove any oils or residue. This simple step prevents imperfections and ensures a clean, professional finish.

How to Organize Your Scraps for Easy Access

A little organization goes a long way. Instead of digging through a jumbled box every time you start a project, take a few minutes to sort your scraps when you first get them. You can use clear plastic containers or divided trays to separate pieces by color, size, or type (like transparent, opaque, or dichroic). This not only saves you time later but also helps you see your inventory at a glance, sparking new ideas for color combinations and designs. When your materials are organized, you can spend less time searching and more time creating.

Organize by Color in Clear Containers

Taking the time to sort your scrap glass is a game-changer for your creative flow. Sorting your pieces by color makes it so much easier to find exactly what you need, but it does more than just save time. When you can see all your available colors at a glance, it can spark new ideas for palettes and designs you might not have considered otherwise. I recommend using clear bins or even large glass jars for storage. This way, your beautiful glass collection becomes part of your studio’s decor. It not only makes your workspace look cleaner and more professional but also keeps your inspiration visible and within reach, turning a pile of scraps into a functional color library.

Create a System for Different COEs

If you work with different types of glass, this is the most important organizational step you can take. Many artists use both COE 90 and COE 96 glass, and keeping them separate is absolutely critical to prevent project-ruining mix-ups. The best practice is to store them in completely different locations—think separate shelves, different sets of drawers, or even opposite sides of your studio. Label every single container clearly and boldly. This simple system is your best defense against accidentally introducing an incompatible piece of glass into your kiln, which would create stress and cause your finished work to crack. A little discipline here saves a lot of heartache later.

Fun Project Ideas for Your Glass Scraps

Scrap glass is perfect for all kinds of projects, from beginner-friendly pieces to intricate works of art. Their small size makes them ideal for creating jewelry like pendants and earrings. You can also arrange them into colorful patterns to make coasters, suncatchers, or small decorative tiles. Try using small, curved molds to create beautiful little dishes or ring holders. Don’t forget that these scraps are also great for mosaic work or as accent pieces in larger stained glass projects. Let the shapes and colors of the glass inspire you—you’ll be amazed at what you can create.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use these COE 96 scraps for stained glass projects? You absolutely can! COE 96 glass cuts and handles just like any other art glass, so it works beautifully in traditional stained glass or mosaic projects. The main thing to consider is cost. Since fusible glass is manufactured to stricter standards to ensure compatibility in the kiln, it’s often a bit more expensive than glass made just for stained glass. While it’s perfectly fine to use fusible scraps in a stained glass panel, you can’t go the other way and use random stained glass scraps in a fusing project.

What really happens if I accidentally mix a piece of COE 90 glass into my COE 96 project? This is the one rule you truly can’t bend. If an incompatible piece of glass finds its way into your project, the piece will almost certainly crack. As the different types of glass cool down in the kiln, they shrink at different rates, which creates an incredible amount of internal stress. This tension has to go somewhere, and it results in a crack that can ruin your entire piece. The crack might appear right away, or it could happen hours or even days later, which is why sticking to a single COE is so important.

I’m brand new to glass fusing. Is a scrap pack a good first purchase? A scrap pack is one of the best places to start. It’s a low-pressure, affordable way to get a wide variety of colors and textures without having to invest in multiple large sheets of glass. This gives you the freedom to experiment, learn how different colors interact in the kiln, and practice your cutting skills without worrying about wasting expensive material. It’s the perfect way to build your confidence and discover what you love to create.

Since scrap packs are a random assortment, what if I don’t get the colors I need? That’s part of the creative adventure of working with scraps! Think of a scrap pack less as a source for a specific project and more as a way to build your studio’s color palette. The surprise assortment encourages you to try color combinations you might not have chosen otherwise. Most artists use scrap packs for practice and experimentation, and then buy specific full sheets of glass when they have a particular design in mind that requires a certain color.

Do I need a big, expensive kiln to use a scrap pack? Not at all. In fact, scrap glass is perfect for artists working with smaller kilns. Many tabletop and jewelry-sized kilns are surprisingly affordable and are ideal for fusing the small pieces found in a scrap pack. You can create beautiful pendants, earrings, magnets, coasters, and decorative tiles without needing a large, professional studio setup. It makes getting started in glass fusing much more accessible.