Things You'll Need:
- Glass
- Glass Cutter
- Marking Pen
- Running Pliers
- Glass Grinder
- Copper Foil
- Soldering Iron
- Flux
- Solder
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Step 1
Pick a project - this can be a panel, box, cabinet insert, sun catcher, fireplace screen or anything else you would like.
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Step 2
Find a pattern - there are many stained glass pattern books to choose from. You can go online to find free patterns or you can actually draw your own.
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Step 3
Select glass - there are many manufacturers who produce glass. The choices are almost limitless. Check out local glass retail stores to view their selection.
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Step 4
Make paper pattern templates - this enables you to make a pattern for each piece in your design.
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Step 5
Cut glass - hold the cutter as you would a pen or pencil. Do not press too hard, this will cause a bad break. You should hear soft scratching sound as you score the glass. Use breaking pliers to open the score line. If cutting a straight line, you can snap the glass with your hands. Certainly using the correct tools will make this much easier.
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Step 6
Foil glass - wrap copper foil around each individual piece. This allows the solder to adhere, which in turn anchors the glass in your art work.
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Step 7
Apply flux and then solder - solder pieces together. This step will take time and practice. Don't give up though, with time you will see better looking solder lines each time you do a new project.
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Step 8
Attach zinc frame - this provides stability to your stained glass piece. Measure the width and height, allow some extra for mitre cuts or any miscuts, then cut the zinc frame piece to fit your project. Next solder the corners of the frame and then all the other intersections of the solder lines to the zinc frame.
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Step 9
Rinse your glass creation off with flux remover and water - then apply patina. Patina is used to draw focus to the glass and design rather than the solder lines. You will notice that your glass will seem to pull forward from the solder seams and usually creates a more magnificent looking project.
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Step 10
Clean and polish - this last step will give your project the shine and brilliance you are looking for. Set back and enjoy your first creation. Hang in front of a light source - window or light box. (See next article on this site for how to build one for under $40.
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Step 11
If you found this article helpful in any way, please rate it as such. The 5th star on the right above would be nice. Feel free to comment as well.
Comments
Meri said
on 7/10/2008 I think you've inspired me. I have a stained glass kit that has been on my shelf for years... time to bring it out!
amylaine said
on 6/26/2008 great article.
Momof3infl said
on 3/31/2008 very cool idea