Cutting glass with a water jet

Precision and Unlimited Possibilities with Waterjet Technology

Glass is a beautiful material for artwork, but working with it presents challenges. It can be very sharp and breaks easily with traditional cutting methods. Fortunately, modern waterjet technology offers a solution to these challenges and opens up a world of creative possibilities.

What is Waterjet Cutting?

Waterjet cutting is an advanced technique in which a very thin, powerful jet of water is shot through the material at extremely high pressure (up to 4000 bar). For glass cutting, an abrasive such as garnet sand is often added to the water, which significantly increases the cutting force.

This technology allows glass to be cut without heat, vibration, or mechanical pressure that can cause cracks or tears. The result is a perfect, smooth cut with minimal post-processing.

All the Shapes You Could Wish For

The great advantage of waterjet technology is the virtually unlimited freedom of design. With a waterjet, you can cut any shape you can imagine:

• Complex geometric patterns – Circles, stars, polygons and intricate designs
• Organic shapes – Flowers, leaves, animals and natural motifs
• Text and letters – Names, dates and messages in any font you want
• Logos and corporate emblems – Perfect reproduction of your corporate identity
• Artistic designs – From abstract to realistic, everything is possible
• Custom shapes – Unique designs specifically for your project

Whether you need a simple rectangle or an intricate pattern with fine details – the water jet makes it possible.

Benefits of Waterjet Cutting for Glass

1. No Thermal Stress

Traditional cutting methods like laser cutting can introduce heat, which causes thermal stress. This can lead to cracking or discoloration of the glass. Waterjet cutting is a cold cutting method, which allows the glass to retain its original properties.

2. Extreme Precision

The waterjet is only 0.2 to 0.4 mm thick, allowing for extremely precise cuts. This is ideal for detailed designs and fine patterns that would be impossible with traditional methods.

3. No Cracks or Tear

Because there is no mechanical pressure or vibration, the risk of cracking is minimal. The glass remains intact and strong, even with complex shapes and sharp corners.

4. Smooth Cutting Edges

The cutting edges are smooth and require minimal finishing. In many cases, the edges can be used directly without additional grinding or polishing.

5. Material efficiency

The thin cutting line minimizes material loss. This is not only cost-effective but also sustainable – at Glasatelier Chris Rave, no glass is wasted .

6. Suitable for all types of glass

Whether it's thin or thick glass, colored or transparent, tempered or laminated – waterjet technology can cut virtually any type of glass.

Applications of Waterjet Cut Glass

Glass Fusing Artworks

Waterjet cutting is ideal for glass fusing projects . You can cut complex shapes and patterns that are then kiln-fused into beautiful works of art. Think of:

• Detailed floral motifs
• Animal figures and silhouettes
• Geometric patterns for modern art
• Personalized shapes with names and symbols

Discover different glass fusing styles such as Hard Edge , Bevelled Edge and Double Fused .

Stained glass and Tiffany

For stained glass and Tiffany projects, waterjet cutting can produce perfectly fitting glass pieces, even for the most complex designs.

Personalized Gifts

Waterjet technology allows you to create unique, personalized glass artwork:

• Wedding gifts with names and wedding date
• Retirement gifts with company logos
• Pet paw prints
• Memorial stones with personal messages
• Romantic hearts in any desired shape

Commercial Applications

• Company logos in glass for offices
• Decorative wall panels for the catering industry
• Arms and emblems (such as the Scheveningen coat of arms )
• Architectural glass elements

You can go to Glasatelier Chris Rave

At Glasatelier Chris Rave in Doesburg, we have professional waterjet equipment that allows us to cut any shape you desire. Whether you have your own design or need help developing one, we're happy to help.

Our Service Includes:

• Customised advice – We help you optimise your design for waterjet cutting
• All types of glass – We work with different types and colors of glass
• Small and large editions – From one unique piece to series production
• Fast delivery time – Efficient production without compromising on quality
• Post-processing possible – We can process the cut pieces directly into glass fusing or stained glass projects
• Personal approach – Direct contact with the professional in our workshop in Doesburg

From Idea to Final Product

Step 1: Design

Already have a design or sketch? Perfect! Just an idea? That's fine too – we'll help you develop it. You can submit a drawing, photo, or digital file.

Step 2: Digitization

Your design is converted into a digital cutting file that the waterjet can read. We optimize the design for the best results.

Step 3: Material Selection

Together we choose the right type of glass: color, thickness and properties that suit your project.

Step 4: Cutting

The waterjet cuts your design from the glass with millimeter precision. This process is fascinating to watch – you're welcome to visit our workshop!

Step 5: Finishing

If necessary, the edges are polished or further processed. For glass fusing projects, the pieces then go into the furnace for various stages of glass melting .

Step 6: Assembly (optional)

We can also mount your artwork directly with our KlikFiks hanging system or other mounting solutions.

Inspiration and Possibilities

Not sure what you want to create? Here are some popular applications:

• Seasonal Decorations – Snowflakes for Winter, Flowers for Spring
• Thematic artworks – Musical notes, sports emblems, hobbies
• Family Crests and Family Trees – Preserve Your Family History in Glass
• House numbers and nameplates – Unique glass signs for the door
• Window hangers and sun catchers – Let the light shine beautifully through your design
• Table top inlays – Decorative glass elements in furniture

Sustainability and Quality

At Glasatelier Chris Rave, sustainability and quality are paramount:

• We use high-quality glass from reliable suppliers
• Residual materials are reused for new projects
• Waterjet cutting is an environmentally friendly technique without harmful emissions
• Each work of art is made with care and craftsmanship
• We work according to the highest quality standards

Prices and Quotes

The cost of waterjet cutting depends on:

• Complexity of the design
• Size of the project
• Type and thickness of the glass
• Number of pieces (larger quantities are cheaper per piece) 
• Any post-processing

Want to know how much your project will cost? Contact us for a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin can the glass that is cut be?

We can cut glass from 2mm thick. For thinner applications, we're happy to advise on alternatives.

Is there a size limit?

Our waterjet can cut pieces up to 2 x 3 meters. For larger projects, we can produce multiple pieces that fit seamlessly.

How detailed can a design be?

Highly detailed! We can cut lines up to 0.5mm wide and achieve details of several millimeters.

Can I submit my own design?

Absolutely! We accept various file formats, including PDF, AI, DXF, JPG, and PNG. Just have a sketch? That's no problem either.

How long does the process take?

For simple designs, we can often deliver within a week. More complex projects or large print runs can take 2-4 weeks. We always discuss the schedule in advance.

Can I see the cutting process?

Yes, you're very welcome to visit our studio in Doesburg to see how the waterjet works. It's fascinating to see how water and sand cut through glass!

Conclusion: Unlimited Creativity with Waterjet

Waterjet technology has revolutionized the world of glass processing. Where traditional methods had limitations, waterjet cutting offers virtually unlimited possibilities. With a waterjet, you can cut any shape you can imagine – from simple geometric shapes to the most complex artistic designs.

At Glasatelier Chris Rave, you can find all your waterjet glass cutting needs. We combine modern technology with traditional craftsmanship to bring your ideas to life. Whether you're looking to create a unique gift, a piece of art for your home, or have a commercial project, we're happy to help.

Do you have an idea for a glass artwork? Let us know! Contact us or visit our studio in Doesburg . Together, we'll transform your vision into a beautiful piece of glass art.