How to Fix a Hairline Crack in Stained Glass

Epoxy Method

• 1

  Apply a line of clear epoxy onto the hairline crack in the stained glass. The epoxy acts as a binding agent that reinforces the fractured glass. Look for epoxy that is sold in a tube with an application tip. Alternatively, if you have an epoxy container, apply the adhesive with a fine paintbrush. Apply the epoxy only on the hairline, not to the sides. Allow the epoxy to dry overnight.

• 2

  Fill a bowl with water. Dip the 1,000-grit wet/dry sandpaper into the bowl. Sand the dried epoxy by moving the sandpaper in fast, circular motions. The fast circulation movements give the area a smoother effect and a shine so that it blends into the stained glass around it.

• 3

  Wipe the excess dust away from the sanding with a dry rag.

Copper Foil Stained Glass

• 4

  Cut a piece of copper foil, using metal shears. Ensure the foil is long enough to cover the length of the hairline crack, plus the length between the two other pieces of copper foil on the stained glass. You are going to fit the copper foil between two other copper foil ends to make it look like the new foil is part of the original stained glass.

• 5

  Form two pieces of copper foil in equal lengths. One piece is for the front of the window and the other piece is for the back.

• 6

  Affix the copper foil to the stained glass directly over the hairline crack with epoxy. Ensure the two ends of the copper foil touch the other copper foil designs in the glass.

• 7

  Solder the new copper foil to the original pieces of copper foil on the stained glass. Hold the soldering iron onto to the ends and keep the tool in place until the metals connect. Move to the next end and continue on the other side of the glass.