DiamondBit: The History and Application
in Stained Glass Art

A grinding bit, a small brass core with a diamond coating, has revolutionised the craft of stained glass. Before its invention, creating stained glass was an arduous and time-consuming process. The grinding bit has enabled artists to produce more intricate and detailed work, ushering in a new era for this craft.

The first grinding bit was invented in the late 19th century. While the exact date and inventor remain unknown, it is believed that these tools were developed independently by several stained glass artists in different countries.

One of the first artists to make widespread use of grinding bits was Louis Comfort Tiffany. In 1878, he founded the Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company, which became one of the foremost stained glass manufacturers in the United States. Tiffany utilised grinding bits to craft his renowned mosaic stained glass windows, celebrated for their intricate designs and stunning colours.

The invention of grinding bits had a transformative impact on the craft of stained glass. It enabled artists to produce more intricate and detailed work, sparking an explosion of creativity within the field. Stained glass became more realistic and expressive, and its application expanded beyond religious buildings to include secular structures, such as homes and public buildings.

DiamondBit is mounted on the shaft of a grinder. The artist holds a glass blank with the outline of the future stained glass element drawn on it or uses a template to grind away excess glass, shaping it to the desired form.

DiamondBit is available in a wide range of grits, suitable for rapid material removal as well as delicate glass types, such as dark, dichroic, and mirrored glass, to prevent chipping. Different bit sizes make it easy to create intricate shapes and even drill holes in glass.