How To Make Stained Glass - Where Do I Begin?

How To Make Stained Glass - Where Do I Begin?

Before we dive in, it's worth noting that this isn't a step-by-step tutorial; it's more like a compass to guide you through your very first steps in learning the enchanting world of stained glass. 
Navigating the wealth of information online can be quite overwhelming, often leading to the question, "Where on earth do I start?" The answer to this dilemma greatly depends on an individual's preferred learning style.
That's why I'm here to break it down for you into the best places to find the information you'll really need, ultimately saving you time and helping you to enjoy the journey of learning stained glass.

 

Dive into Online Resources:

Take a peek at the multitude of stained glass tutorials and demos on YouTube. Trust me, watching those experts wield their tools can be a game-changer in understanding the craft and sparking some creative ideas of your own.

Here are some of my top recommended YouTube channels to help you get started:

  • SunbearGlassCraft: Rachel is an absolute pro at walking you through the Tiffany stained glass process. Her tutorial videos are like having a patient friend guiding you step by step, ensuring you grasp every detail without feeling overwhelmed.

 

  • Makenzie Hallie: Makenzie's videos are fabulous, covering everything from the basics of cutting stained glass to soldering and much more. She even reviews various stained glass tools so you don't have to. Her approach is friendly and thorough, making sure you're well-informed without drowning in information.

 

  • Samantha Ashley: Samantha's tutorials bring a unique twist to the stained glass journey, offering not only the basics but also diving into innovative techniques.

 

Local Workshops and Classes:

Explore the art schools, community centers, and craft workshops around you for potential beginner-level stained glass classes. These courses often provide valuable hands-on experience and guidance from seasoned artists, making them perfect for those seeking a supportive in-person learning environment.

However, if you can't find a local class or can't commit due to other obligations, don't worry! Many artists opt for self-teaching methods that suit their own preferences and schedules. What works for one may not be the best fit for another, and that's perfectly okay.

    Here's some links for where to find some stained glass courses.

    UK - Craftcourses.com

    USA - Coursehorse.com

    *If you have links for courses in other countries, please feel free to get in touch so we can add it to our list!


    The Magic of Books:

    Don't underestimate the power of a good stained glass book. They're like treasure troves filled with tips, techniques, and design inspirations to keep you inspired and informed throughout your stained glass adventures.

    Here's just a few of our favourite recommendations to get you started...

    - Kicking Glass: A Creative Guide to Stained Glass Craft by Neile Cooper

    - Creative Stained Glass: Make Stunning Glass Art And Gifts With This Instructional Guide by Noor Springael

    - Beyond Basic Stained Glass Making: Techniques and Tools to Expand Your Abilities (How To Basics) by Sandy Allison

     

    Crafting Communities:

    Join the fun and vibrant online stained glass communities where artists share their experiences and offer advice. It's a great way to connect with like-minded creators and get those creative juices flowing.

    Facebook - A fantastic place to begin is by exploring the various stained glass Facebook groups. You'll find a supportive network of skilled artists readily offering guidance to beginners and addressing any queries you may have.

    We have our own Facebook groups! You can find them over here:

    Stained Glass Tips, Tricks & Friendly Advice - Patterns & More

    Birch Glass Patterns, Tips, Tutorials & Stained Glass Accessories

     

    Reddit - Additionally, check out the dedicated Stained Glass subreddit r/stainedglass for more inspiration and discussion.

    Just remember, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines of any online community before actively participating.


    Local Craft Supply Stores:

    Don't forget to pop into your local craft supply stores too! They're often equipped with resources, guidance, and maybe even workshops tailored for those just starting out with stained glass.

     

     

    When delving into stained glass, it's important to know the different techniques involved. Leadlighting, for instance, focuses on creating decorative windows using lead came to hold together individual pieces of colored glass. On the other hand, Tiffany style stained glass involves copper foil wrapping for intricate and detailed designs, allowing for more flexibility and intricacy in your artwork.
    Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process! Don't rush, take your time, and have fun experimenting with the endless possibilities that stained glass has to offer. You're about to embark on a beautiful journey, and I'm thrilled to be here to help you get started!
     
    Have fun!
    Aimee

     

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