Making stained glass is a rewarding and often challenging craft. One of the more delicate art forms, stained glass requires a bit of patience and precision to learn, but the results can range from beautiful decorative panels, lamps, and transom windows to smaller projects like sun catchers and garden stones. If learning to make stained glass has made your list of interests, there are several ways to get started.
While this form of art can be both simple and intricate, making stained glass is an expensive craft compared to other art forms. The colored glass used in making stained glass, as well as the other supplies, can be costly. Though the tools used in making stained glass can also be expensive, quality tools can be used for many years. Investing in quality tools like glass cutters, grinders, and soldering irons will provide longevity to the craft.
Before investing in expensive tools it might be wise to invest in a class. As a popular art form, community colleges, recreation centers, and artisan organizations offer classes in making stained glass. Those with no previous experience can learn the basics of cutting glass and assembling it. A class is also a good way to experience the process without investing in costly tools and supplies. For those who must learn on their own, research books and websites before beginning. Start with a simple pattern and use the least expensive glass for experimenting.
Keep in mind that it takes practice to learn to work with stained glass. Learning to score and break glass into specific shapes takes patience and in the beginning, it may take several attempts to get one usable piece. Textured and opaque glass is more difficult to cut than smooth, translucent colors, so opt for cheaper glass in the beginning. By following a simple pattern with straight, simple cuts and fewer pieces, you increase your chances for initial success. To begin, you will only need to invest in a good glass cutter and soldering iron and basic supplies like glass foil, solder, and flux. Initially keeping your investment to a minimum and experimenting with simple projects is a good way to get started making stained glass.
After discovering the basics, more complicated stained glass projects can follow. Patterns with more complex cuts and those that require grinding or leading should be reserved for after gaining practice and experience. To further your knowledge of the craft, check with local suppliers of stained glass supplies for classes or even private artisans that may teach advanced techniques.
Making stained glass can indeed be a rewarding creative outlet and many people have made lucrative careers out of making and repairing stained glass, yet like any endeavor, it takes an investment of time and money to develop the skill. Avoid the urge to go overboard and set up a full-scale stained glass workshop until you can obtain practice or instruction on smaller scale projects. Practice soldering and cutting with scrap pieces of glass until you are confident you can move on to more advanced patterns. With time and practice, making stained glass will become easier and more rewarding.
