Our Process

Very few people are aware of the process that leads to a finished piece of stained glass.  Stained glass is not stained at all.  Each piece of glass is cut from a sheet using a glass cutter and is much like a puzzle, in that each piece must fit precisely into the pattern.  A grinder can be used to smooth out edges and a diamond ring saw can also be used to cut tight curves or unusual shapes. 

Once the glass is cut, it is cleaned to remove any glass dust or markings.  Each piece of the picture is then "wrapped" or outlined with copper foil and flux is applied.  These steps are necessary in order to get the solder to adhere to the glass and hold the piece together.

Solder, consisting of tin and lead, is heated with a soldering iron and moves much like flowing lava.  The solder line should be smooth and slightly rounded and it takes quite a bit of experience to achieve that outcome.

The piece can now be cleaned once again, and a patina can be applied to the solder if that look is desired.  The piece is then framed and ready to be placed in a sunny window.

Every piece I create is displayed in our home, and appreciated until I feel I am ready to let it go.  When it does find its new place, I hope it brings as much brightness and joy as it did for me in creating it.

Lisa