u/Claycorp — reddlx

Welcome once again to the monthly mega Q&A! You can find all previous Q&A posts here!

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Posting guidelines!

If you have a question that hasn't been asked yet as a top level comment, don't reply to another comment to ask it! Reply to the post instead!
Make sure to include as much information in the top level comment as possible.
Anything and everything glass is fine to ask, if you want help with patterns or other physical things make sure to upload images! You can do so by attaching the image to the comment. Please be aware you are posting it for all to see so hide any personal info!
No question is stupid, from Basement Workshop Dreamer to Expert, we are all here to share and learn.
While opinion based questions like "best way to hold a soldering iron" are fine, please keep in mind that these really have no real true answer. They can however provide you a wide variety of tips to try out on your own!

Common Questions:

My solder is wrong!
- Post a picture of the solder using the image info from the posting guidelines and someone can help you solve whatever issue it is.
I want to get started with glass! What do I need?
- It's best to take a class first to see if you really like the craft as glass has a rather high starting cost. If you insist on starting on your own or just don't have classes here's a small write-up on getting started.
Do I need a temperature controlled iron?
- As much as I want to just say YES.... No, you don't, BUT buying one will greatly improve your ability to work with it. It's well worth the extra money, it's best to just do so from the start.
Do I need a Grinder?
- Technically no, but to do foil (AKA Tiffany style) glass work it's practically required. "Grinder stones" (AKA Carborundum stones) are just a waste of time and effort. They are only really good for removing the sharp edge off the glass. Similar to the iron information above, spend the money, save yourself.