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Writer's pictureChanlakan Nna

What are ways to make 'Real' stained glass?

There are numerous ways to create stained glass. Here we've compiled some key facts and methodological distinctions for you to consider.




1. Traditional Lead Came Method

The Traditional Lead Came Method is a classic technique used in stained glass art, characterized by the use of lead strips (called came) to hold glass pieces together.


  • Sketch and Cartoon: Start with a full-sized drawing (cartoon) of the design.

  • Glass Selection: Choose sheets of colored glass and where to put it based on the design.

  • Cutting Glass: Use a steel-wheel cutter to score and break the glass pieces along the lines of the cartoon.

  • Grozing: Refine the edges of the glass pieces using a grozing tool.

  • Painting and Firing: Paint details on the glass with vitreous enamel and fire in a kiln to fuse the paint.

  • Assembling: Fit the glass pieces into H-shaped lead came strips, soldering joints together.




2. Copper Foil Method

The Copper Foil Method, also known as the Tiffany Method, is a stained glass assembly technique pioneered by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This process enables for more depth and complexity in stained glass creations than standard lead came procedures. Here's a detailed look at the procedure, benefits, and historical context of the Copper Foil Method:


  • Preparation: Similar to the lead came method, start with a design and cut glass pieces.

  • Foiling: Wrap each piece of glass in copper foil tape.

  • Soldering: Solder the copper foil seams together, allowing for more intricate designs than lead came.


3. Faceted Glass Technique

The Faceted Glass Technique, also known as Dalle de Verre, is a unique kind of stained glass art that includes cutting glass into thick, jewel-like pieces to create a visually spectacular appearance. This style is distinguished by the use of big slabs of glass and how light interacts with the facets. The Faceted Glass Technique is explained in detail here, including the process, supplies, benefits, and considerations.


  • Cutting and Shaping: Cut glass into facets that resemble jewels or gems.

  • Epoxy Application: Instead of lead, use an epoxy or concrete mixture to hold the pieces together.


4. Etched Glass

Etched Glass is a decorative method that includes producing designs on the surface of glass by removing its outer layer, resulting in a frosted appearance. This technique can be accomplished using a variety of methods, including acid etching, sandblasting, and others. Here's a detailed look into the techniques, applications, and considerations involved in glass etching.


  • Design Creation: Use abrasive substances or chemicals like hydrofluoric acid to create designs on the glass surface.

  • Application: This technique can be used alongside traditional stained glass methods for added detail.



5. Beveled Glass

Beveled Glass is a type of glass that has been cut at an angle to create a decorative edge, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality. This technique is widely used in various applications, from architectural elements to decorative items.


  • Preparation: The glass surface must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dust or debris. Inspect for chips or cracks that could affect the beveling process.

  • Choosing Bevel Width: The width of the bevel can vary based on design preferences—from subtle angles to wide, dramatic cuts.

  • Rough Beveling: Using a coarse grit wheel, create the initial bevel shape by holding the glass at a consistent angle against the wheel.

  • Fine Beveling: Switch to finer grit wheels to refine the shape and remove any scratches left by the rough wheel.

  • Polishing: Finally, use a polishing wheel with a suitable compound to achieve a glossy finish on the beveled edge.


6. Sculptured Gold Technique

Henry Lee Willet invented the Sculptured Gold Technique, a unique and revolutionary process in stained glass art, in the 1950s. This technique solves a common problem with traditional stained glass—its low visibility at night—by making windows that are visually appealing in all lighting conditions


  • Gold Leaf Application: Traditional stained glass is enhanced by sculpting lead into forms covered with gold leaf, allowing beauty even in low light.


These methods highlight traditional techniques for creating stained glass art, showcasing the versatility and creativity involved in this craft. All of them could be combine to get the full effect of stained glass in one unique art piece.

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