HOW IT'S MADE

I've had a lot of people interested in learning how stained glass is made. To answer this question, I created a simple step by step guide with illustrations. Please click on either link below to download an Adobe PDF of both standard methods. Please keep in mind, although Leaded and Copper Foil are the 2 most popular methods, there are other construction methods available. It all depends on the application. Here's a brief description of each for reference:

Leaded: The most popular and oldest method, this consists of using lead came between each piece of glass, reinforced with cement and weatherproofed for external facing panels. This is most commonly used for larger pieces as you would find in churches. It's designed to last for centuries with minor maintenance.

Copper Foil: This method started much more recently. It consists of a narrow copper adhesive backed tape that wraps around each piece of glass and acts as a foundation for the solder. This is most commonly used in smaller to mid-sized panels where finer detail is needed.

Epoxy: This method consists of using epoxy to secure the individual pieces of glass to a background. There is no metal required at all, it's just all glass and typically a wood frame to finish the panel.

Mosaic/Grout: This method involves securing individual pieces of glass to a background with epoxy (with spaces between each piece), then filling in the gaps with a cement grout. It's a very popular method for projects outside, it's made to withstand the elements. Applications include stepping stones, birdbaths, kitchen countertop tiles, but windows can be made with a clear background and transparent glass pieces.

Faceting: This method is commonly found in churches. It's like mosaic/grout, but the panel and glass is much thicker. The individual rough cut chunks are cut from 1 1/2"- 2" thick glass. The edges of the glass are hammered to create round fractured edges, exterior day light makes the edges of the glass sparkle with color from the refractions.

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