SL Firpo Design Craft - Leaded Glass Studio

8 Steps to Create a Leaded Glass Window

Step 1: Drawing, coloring and cutting the glass patterns


Once the pattern is drawn, each space is color coded and numbered. In this window: Y = yellow ripple glass R = red G = green/purplish mottle A = amber	The pattern is then literally cut to pieces (along the lines of course...) with lead shears. These shears are like large scissors that take out just the right amount to allow for the thickness of the lead came.

Step 2: Cutting the glass


The glass pieces are cut color by color and laid out upon the pattern.

The window takes its shape.

Step 3: Grinding the glass


Inside curves are definitely a challenge to cut. But with two grinders and a glass band saw we are able to cut and shape even the most curly inside curves.

Step 4: Leading the window


Each piece of glass needs to be held in place by a piece of lead came. The lead is very soft so it cuts easily with snips. During the course of the work, the leaded portion is fixed in place with horseshoe nails so that the glass stays on its pattern while the work proceeds.

This window is ready to be soldered and glazed.

Step 5: All together


Once the window is soldered and glazed, it is safe to handle and it is ready for its wood frame.	Before a window leaves the studio, it is nice to see it in sunlight -- a good reason to take some photos.

Step 6: New home


The hole in the cob (mud and straw) wall was cut large enough to easily accommodate the window. The stained glass window is then installed into the cob wall. New cob will be added to fill up to the frame.

Later, the cob wall will get three finish coats.

Step 7: The Cob Medallion Window


In order to set our window directly into the cob wall we installed screws into the wood frame to give the new cob something to grab onto.	Details of The Cob Medallion Window

Details of The Cob Medallion Window	The Cob Medallion Window

Step 8: In Situ


The Cob Medallion Window is now in place.

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