How to Make Stained Glass in Lead or With Copper Foil

There are two ways to make stained glass, leaded or copper foiled. The major difference between the two is in the construction. With leaded stained glass, the glass is fitted into channels of lead came. IN contrast, copper foiled stained glass is constructed by wrapping each piece of glass with copper foil.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Lead stained glass historically is found in churches. It was during the Victoria Era where leaded stained glass was introduced into homes and has remained a popular method of constructing stained glass ever since. So, start noticing the differences to see the two different methods to decide which one you prefer.

2. Foiled stained glass was mastered by Tiffany in the early 1900's and soon after became a popular method for creating stained glass. You will see both of these methods as you continue to notice more stained glass.

3. Is one method better than the other?
   The simple answer is no. A better answer is that depends on the artist and the design.

4. What is the difference in leaded and foiled construction?
   With leaded stained glass, the construction must begin at an outer corner, the individual pieces are fitted into lead came. Once all pieces are cut and placed in lead came, the joints of the came are soldered. Then the complete piece is cemented.
   
   With foiled stained glass, the construction can begin at any point in the design and worked out from there. The individual pieces are wrapped in copper foil and soldered together.

5. When is foiled stained glass construction better than lead?
   With intricate designs, foiled construction is superior.

6. When is lead construction better than foiled?
   Leaded construction is used most often with designs that have repetitive geometric shapes. These designs can be foiled, but construction time is increased.

7. Which is easier?
   There is no simple answer for this. It is really a personal preference. Leaded, foiled or combination of the two methods are found throughout the stained glass industry.

8. Is leaded or foiled construction better than the other?
   No, each method, if done correctly, will provide the same long lasting beauty and endurance.

9. Why is foiled construction taught to beginners doing stained glass classes?
   The cementing of the leaded construction tends to be messy. Foiled construction can be started and stopped, making weekly classes work better.

10. What are the basic steps for making leaded stained glass?
    Stained glass is cut, shaped and fitted into channels of lead came. Joints of lead came are soldered. The entire piece is cemented. Then the piece is cleaned and polished. This method may result in an overall stronger production than foiled stained glass.

11. What are the basic steps for making foiled stained glass?
    Stained glass is cut and shaped, then each piece is wrapped in copper foil. Copper foil seams are soldered together. Then piece is then cleaned and polished.

Tips & Warnings

• My personal choice:
• I tend to do a lot of intricate designs, so I use the foiled construction method. It provides the flexibility and detail I need for my designs. If you would like more information for making stained glass using the foil method, then check out my site at http://www. creativity-in-glass.com. Free patterns may be found there as well as detailed instructions and an art gallery.

Resources

• www.creativity-in-glass.com
• www.easyhomeimprovementprojects.com