Patterned glass is translucent glass into which a pattern, texture or figure has been impressed during the rolling process. The relief allows light to pass through but disrupts the view — ideal for situations where daylight and privacy are both desired. Patterned glass is also sometimes called ornamental glass.
Production process
Patterned glass is made by passing molten glass between two rollers, at least one of which carries an engraved relief pattern:
- Glass melt — base ingredients (sand, soda, lime) heated to 1500 °C
- Rolling — glass flow passes between copper or steel rollers
- Pattern transfer — the roller relief presses into the glass
- Cooling tunnel — controlled cooling to avoid stress
- Cutting to size — ready-made sheets for the glass trade
Common patterns
- Cathedral — irregular wavy structure
- Master-Carré — fine squares
- Master-Ligne — vertical lines
- Master-Point — small dots
- Crepi — coarse stipple
- Reeded / cannelures — vertical ribs
Application
Patterned glass is widely used where daylight and privacy both matter:
- Bathroom windows — natural light without view
- WC windows — small windows with privacy effect
- Internal doors — upper panels of classic panelled doors
- Stairwells — light transmission between rooms
- Office partitions — visual separation while remaining open
- Shower screens — combined with safety glass
For use in doors or shower screens, patterned glass is usually toughened (safety glass) per EN 12150 to reduce injury risk. Patterned glass can also be incorporated into double or HR++ glazing for better insulation.
Related terms
- Glass
- Double glazing
- Stained glass
- Glass building
- Glazing bead
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.