How to Make Your Own Stained Glass Windows

How to Make Your Own Stained Glass Windows

Stained glass projects may seem daunting, but with the proper tools, can be done right. Each pattern created can be made into something unique. Making your own stained glass can be more fun, and cheaper than buying it from a professional.

Designing a project

It is first important to know exactly what you want to create with your project. There are many different ways stained glass can be used. Choose from a simple panel to put in a window, screens, sun catchers, ornaments, or boxes. Many chose a window design for their first project.

After you know which project you wish to use, you can now choose a pattern you would like to create. If this is your first stained glass project, select a pattern that is simple and broad. Many small pieces can be difficult to handle until you are acquainted with the more complex patterns.

Beautiful Stained Glass Window

Once you have a pattern you like, it is time to select a type of glass. There are quite a few types of glass types to choose from. The most important things to consider while making this decision are:

• Texture
• Color
• Availability
• Price

You can combine these different types in the same project.

Make the project

After you have all the materials you will need, there are six steps for making a stained glass window:

Make a template

Cut a copy of your pattern into the pieces you wish it to be in. Label each piece by color and the direction it will face. Place the original pattern under the glass and trace the outline with a market. There should be enough room for the copper foil.

Pliers

Score the glass

Use a glass cutter gently on the glass. Start away from your body and move towards you. Keep cutting like this, turning the glass when necessary.
Cut the glass – as soon as you see a line forming, use pliers to squeeze the two pieces apart. For pieces that won’t break away, you can use the glasscutter to further break it up.

Razor Blade

Foil the glass

Wash your glass before you use it. Fill a bath with just a drop of ammonia. Before using it, dry each piece off completely. Cover each edge with 7/32 inch copper foil. Make sure that the foil is attached to the glass by pressing down with a tongue depressor.

Foil

Solder the glass

Heat the foil and place the pieces together in the pattern you have made. Do this on both sides to make sure it is attached enough.

Attach a frame

You can now use this as part of a window with a frame.

Creating your own stained glass windows is a process that takes time. If you learn the techniques, you can create more complex designs as time goes on.

Stained Glass Window

If you are interested in learning more about creating your own stained glass window projects, you can take classes, or learn from the professionals online. These can teach you more about complex designs, and which types of glass are best to use for the project you wish to accomplish.

The article is sponsored by http://advancedwindowsusa.com/