Creating a stained glass piece is a journey we take together. I’ll guide you every step of the way, blending your story and ideas with my artistic vision and craftsmanship to create a one-of-a-kind work of art you can enjoy for years to come. 

• The Design:

  • It all starts with your vision. Maybe it is a memory, a favorite photo, a whimsical idea, a sports team, or a company logo — or just something that caught your eye online. No matter the inspiration, we will talk through your ideas, and I will sketch some concepts with colors and patterns that bring them to life. We will collaborate until you are completely comfortable with the direction of the artwork.

• Determine a Budget:

  • Commissioned stained glass is an investment in something personal and lasting. While buying a premade piece online or at an art show is more cost effective, a custom commissioned piece is designed and made just for you — with care and craftsmanship to tell your story. Pricing depends on size, complexity, and materials. We will establish a clear, realistic budget together so there are no surprises.

• Final Drawing:

  • Once the concept is approved, I will create a detailed drawing — your vision starting to take form. This is our opportunity to refine dimensions, adjust the layout, and add or change elements until we are sure the piece fully reflects your story.

• Glass Selection:

  • Glass selection is key — each sheet has its own unique color, pattern, texture, and light interaction. I will recommend options based on the design and send you links to trusted art glass websites so you can explore for yourself if you wish. There are thousands of choices, but don’t worry, I will help you narrow it down to the perfect combination.

• Building the Glass Panel:

  • Creating your panel typically takes 4–12 weeks depending on the design complexity and current queue. Here is what happens behind the scenes:

    • Cutting the Glass: The pattern is finalized and used as a template for cutting each individual piece. Every piece is hand cut with care. Minor variations are part of what gives handmade stained glass its charm.

    • Foiling or Leading: Each glass piece is wrapped in copper foil or fit into lead came and arranged into the pattern. Then I solder the joints together to create a unified structure. If we use lead came, the panel will be cemented to seal and strengthen it. The process is repeated on both sides.

    • Adding Beauty: The natural color of solder and lead came is a silvery gray, but patina can be applied to darken it to charcoal color or give it a warm copper tone — depending on what best suits your piece and your preference.

    • Cleaning & Polishing: The final piece is cleaned thoroughly to remove any residue from the process and the lead is polished.

• Shipping or Pickup:

  • Your finished panel is carefully packed for shipping or available for local pickup. Hanging hardware and care instructions are included.