Glass in Kitchen cabinets

by Carrie
(Sooke, BC)

Hi Sue, we are installing new cabinets in our kitchen. I got the store to not put a wood panel in the corner cabinet. I'm planning on designing something in glass, do you have any advise for me? I've only done copper foil. I may do a design and then put a mirror behind so you can't see into the cupboard. Thanks Carrie

Answer

I'd strongly advise constructing the panel with lead came and reinforcing it very well. Cupboard doors (any door for that matter) that is frequently opened and closed and often slammed, causes the glass to "oil can". Think of what happens when you squeeze then let go of an oil can...it moves in and out. The same thing happens to stained glass in a door. If the glass is foiled, the glass isn't going to be able to move, so it will either eventually break or pull loose from the foil from the constant in and out motion.

Lead came and putty cushions the glass, giving it some movement when the door is opened and closed or slammed. It is far less likely to break than a foiled panel. With lead came, putty (not cement), and proper reinforcement, your kitchen cupboard panel should last as long as the cupboard does.

If you make the panel with opalescent glass, you won't have to back it with mirror and you have the advantage of the panel looking good in all kinds of light. If you want, you can install some sort of lighting in the cupboard so the panel will look spectacular at night.