Are you looking for a new hobby that allows you to express your creativity and make beautiful works of art?
If so, taking a stained glass class for beginners might be just what you need!
Today, we’ll explore what you can expect from a stained glass class for beginners, how to choose the right class for you, and what you’ll need to get started.
Why people search for a Stained glass class?
Stained glass is a popular hobby for many reasons.
Not only is it a creative outlet, but it also provides a sense of relaxation and mindfulness. Many people search for stained glass classes for beginners because they want to learn a new skill, express their creativity, and create something beautiful.
The process of cutting and fitting glass pieces together requires focus and attention to detail, which can be meditative and calming.
Plus, the end result of a finished stained glass piece is a beautiful and unique work of art that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a way to de-stress, stained glass is a great choice.
A Little bit of Stained glass
Stained glass has been a popular art form for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Rome.
Today, stained glass is still a beloved art form that can be found in churches, museums, and even homes. Stained glass involves creating colorful designs by cutting and fitting together small pieces of glass to form a larger picture.
The pieces are held together by strips of metal called “came” and soldered together to create a strong and durable piece of art.
What to Expect in a Stained Glass Class?
Taking a stained glass class is a great way to learn a new skill and explore your creativity.
You’ll have the opportunity to work with a variety of colors and textures of glass, as well as learn how to use specialized tools like glass cutters, grinders, and soldering irons.
Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and unique with your own two hands.
If you’re new to stained glass, you might be wondering what to expect from a class. Here are a few things you can expect to learn:
1. Glass Cutting
One of the first skills you’ll learn in a stained glass class for beginners is how to cut glass.
You’ll learn how to use a glass cutter to score the glass and then snap it along the score line.
It might take some practice to get the hang of it, but with the guidance of your instructor, you’ll be cutting glass like a pro in no time.
2. Design
Once you’ve got the hang of glass cutting, you’ll start working on a design for your stained glass piece.
Your instructor will likely provide some design ideas to get you started, but you’ll also have the freedom to create your own design.
You’ll learn how to transfer your design onto the glass and then cut the glass pieces to fit your design.
3. Assembly
After you’ve cut all your glass pieces, it’s time to start assembling your stained glass piece.
You’ll use strips of metal called “came” to hold the glass pieces together and create the overall design.
You’ll also learn how to solder the came together to create a strong and durable piece of art.
4. Finishing
Once your piece is assembled and soldered, you’ll need to add a few finishing touches.
You might need to add some additional solder to strengthen certain areas, or add patina to give your piece an antique look.
Your instructor will guide you through the finishing process and help you make any necessary adjustments.
What You’ll Need to Get Started in Stained Glass
1. Glass cutter
A glass cutter is a crucial tool for stained glass work.
It’s used to score the glass so that it can be broken into the desired shape.
There are several types of glass cutters available, but the most popular is the pistol grip cutter.
Some of the best brands in the market include Toyo, Fletcher, and Studio Pro.
Prices for a glass cutter range from $10 to $40, depending on the brand and model.
You can find them at your local stained glass supply store or online.
2. Glass
Glass comes in many colors and textures, which makes it an excellent medium for creating beautiful designs.
You can find stained glass at your local stained glass supply store or online.
Prices vary depending on the size, color, and texture of the glass. On average, a piece of glass measuring 12″ x 12″ can cost anywhere from $5 to $20.
3. Came
Came is the metal strip that holds the glass pieces together.
It’s available in different widths and thicknesses, so be sure to choose the right size for your project. Some of the best brands for came include Venture, Uroboros, and Aanraku.
Prices for came vary depending on the size and type. On average, a pack of 6′ of 1/4″ came can cost around $6.
4. Soldering Iron
A soldering iron is used to melt the solder that holds the came together.
There are several types of soldering irons available, including standard, temperature-controlled, and cordless.
When selecting a soldering iron, look for one with a comfortable grip and adjustable temperature control.
Some of the best brands in the market include Weller, Hakko, and Studio Pro.
Prices for a soldering iron range from $20 to $100, depending on the brand and model.
5. Safety Equipment
Working with stained glass can be dangerous, so it’s essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment.
Safety glasses will protect your eyes from flying glass shards, while gloves will protect your hands from cuts and burns.
Additionally, you may want to invest in a respirator to protect your lungs from glass dust and solder fumes.
How to start the stained glass hobby
Like other hobbies, here we will also recommend starting online.
Let’s go through some steps that we think are the best way to get you started.
1) Get inspired
To start, get inspired by some artists. It is important that the activity catches your eye, makes you dream and want to do something similar.
It is this feeling that will move you towards a pleasurable and long-term activity.
We made a list of some artists and their social networks.
Tiktok
- MetaMoon05 – is a talented stained glass artist known for creating intricate and vibrant designs. Their TikTok videos showcase their process, from glass cutting to soldering, providing a captivating glimpse into the world of stained glass art. Follow
- @stainedglassdiy – is a skilled stained glass artist known for their innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Their TikTok videos offer tips, tricks, and step-by-step tutorials for beginners interested in learning the art of stained glass.
- @funkyglassworks – is a TikTok sensation with a passion for creating stunning stained glass pieces. Their videos feature time-lapses of their artistic process, demonstrating how they carefully assemble glass pieces to bring their designs to life.
- @StainedGlassMasterpieces – StainedGlassMasterpieces is an Instagram account that showcases the incredible creations of a master stained glass artist. Their feed is filled with photos of breathtaking stained glass windows, lamps, and panels, each demonstrating their exceptional attention to detail and artistic skill.
- @GlassArtistryBriasbane – GlassArtistryBriabane is an Instagram page dedicated to sharing the work of a talented stained glass artist. Their feed is a visual feast of colorful and intricate stained glass designs, ranging from traditional to contemporary.
- @Eringlasswork – TheGlassMuse is an Instagram account run by a skilled stained glass artist known for their unique and imaginative designs. Their feed is a collection of mesmerizing stained glass pieces that push the boundaries of the art form, incorporating elements of nature, abstract patterns, and vibrant colors.
2) Choose the class mode
The second step is to choose the best type of class for you.
There are several online courses, face-to-face courses, live online courses, etc.
We recommend researching a good online course and starting with it, depending on the price.
This is because, with online classes, you can have a good idea of the space and materials needed, which pieces you can already produce as a beginner, if the activity is really for you, among other factors. Search for the teacher and try a free trial if available.
If you did not like the class, do not be discouraged, there is a possibility that the class or teacher did not please you, but the activity was a pleasure for you. Look for other sources of information. There is also the possibility for you to check basic information on Youtube.
However, our team checked several channels and we couldn’t find a source that could actually demonstrate the activity in full.
There are also cases where people can’t get a good idea with the videos, in these cases, go for face-to-face courses.
Always remember to research well about classes. See testimonials, ask for the curriculum and search for good prices.
Stained Glass institutes and schools of art
Here are some institutes and schools, you can be inspired by many of the works developed there and seek more information about their courses.
- The Studio of The Corning Museum of Glass – Corning, New York, USA
- Website: https://www.cmog.org
- Centre International du Vitrail – Chartres, France
- Website: https://www.centre-vitrail.org/en
- Bullseye Glass Company – Portland, Oregon, USA
- Website: https://www.bullseyeglass.com/
- Creative Glass – Zürich, Switzerland
- Website: https://www.creativeglass.com/
- Delphi Glass – Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Website: https://www.delphiglass.com/
- The Stained Glass Museum – Ely, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Website: https://stainedglassmuseum.com/
- UrbanGlass – Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Website: https://urbanglass.org/
- Franklin Art Glass Studios – Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Website: https://www.franklinartglass.com/
- The Stained Glass School – San Juan Capistrano, California, USA
- Website: https://www.stainedglassschool.org/
- The Stained Glass Museum at Eton College – Windsor, Berkshire, UK
