The (Almost) Lost Art Form #PURE3600SP21
Stained glass is an art form that has been around for centuries. There are multiple variations of techniques and styles that have been developed throughout the years. The most popular technique is the copper foiling technique. Many will see this technique utilized for smaller pieces like suncatchers and small panels. The leaded technique is also popular, but it is mainly used for windows, primarily seen in churches and larger home windows.
I was lucky enough to learn the copper foiling technique in high school and have continued ever since. This technique can be difficult and tedious, but the end result is well worth it. I will be taking you through the various tools needed for making a beautiful stained-glass piece.
The supplies
To start off, there are 19 necessary tools to create any stained-glass piece. Plus, the glass!
- Breaker/Grozer pliers
- Running pliers
- Glass cutter
- Glass cutting oil
- Grinder
- 60/40 solder
- Copper foil
- Foiling shears
- Iron
- Iron stand
- Safety glasses
- Flux
- Flux brush
- Flux cleaner/Dish soap
- Project board
- Lead came or zinc for framing
- Lead nipper pliers
- Finishing compound
- Patina (optional)
Each of these items are necessary tools to the stained-glass process. You should expect to spend around $200–400 for all of the supplies, besides the glass. The grinder and soldering iron will be the priciest items. However, if a grinder is too difficult to get your hands on, then you could use a scythe stone, which would add a lot of time, but it would be able to do the same job as the grinder would.
The glass is one of the most exciting aspect about the process! There are countless types and colors of glass that are used. Some of the most popular types are: antique, cathedral, confetti, glue chip, iridescent, mirror, opalescent, opaque, ring mottled, seedy, streaky, and textured. In addition to sheets of glass, artists can also incorporate bevels, jewels, glass nuggets, rondels, geodes, and pretty much anything else that could withstand the 700 degrees Fahrenheit temperature of the soldering iron and 60/40 solder.
