Stained Glass Process
Stained glass is a traditional technique where individual pieces of glass are cut, shaped, wrapped in copper foil, and soldered together to form a finished panel. I work in the copper foil, or Tiffany, method.
This process combines careful design with hands-on craftsmanship. Each piece is built one section at a time, then assembled like a puzzle into a cohesive finished work.
01
Design and Pattern
Design the piece and draw a pattern. Cut out the pattern pieces, then trace each shape onto the colored glass that matches the design. Number each piece for assembly.
02
Grind for Precision
Grind all pieces to fit the pattern so everything fits as snugly as possible. Tape pieces down as needed while grinding.
03
Copper Foil and Flux
Border each piece of glass with copper foil, folding the foil down on both sides. Brush with flux.
04
Soldering
Solder all pieces together to form one panel.
05
Reinforce and Clean
After soldering both sides of the panel, border the project with zinc came for sturdiness. Clean with whiting powder or spray flux cleaner.
06
Final Detail Clean-Up
Clean with Windex and use an X-acto knife to remove any remaining residue from solder lines.
