How Stained Glass is Made
The first steps in making stained glass require planning.
- The exact dimensions of the piece need to be determined, if it is to be a window. This includes the exact shape to be filled.
- The subject matter for the window is chosen, usually by the customer, although it is sometimes a collaboration between the customer and the artist.
- Next, a rough sketch is drawn for the customer, often on the spot. This rough sketch used to be known as a Vindimus, although that term is rarely used any more.
- A full-scale plan is drawn up, showing glass shapes and colors. The lead or other metalic strips that separate the shapes is planned out to enhance the visual effect.
- The glass is selected and the shapes are cut according to the plan. A small tool, called a grozer is used to nibble small bits off the edges to get an exact fit.
- The glass is then fitted into H-shaped lead strips, called Cames, which are then soldered together.
- In modern stained glass, the lead strips are replaced with copper foil and solder, allowing a weather tight, rattle-free product.
- The completed window is then fitted into the window frame, and the frame is mounted into the opening.