| The Stained Glass Workshop |
| The three main construction methods that we use [examples of which are shown within the pages of this site] are briefly described as follows:- Applique This technique is used to build up layers of coloured glass that are glued to a backing sheet of clear glass. The gaps between the pieces of glass are then filled in with a grout. The method is a mix between tiling, mosaic and a jigsaw. This system is very good for beginners as it is very 'forgiving' as larger gaps, between the glass segments, can be filled up with the grout. Although larger panels can be made it is an excellent way to produce small (less that 30cmx30cm) hanging Lightcatchers. Copper Foil - Tiffany Method This process was developed into an 'Art Form' in the 1800's by Louis Comfort Tiffany in America whose panels and lampshades now command many thousands of pounds at auction. The modern method uses a self adhesive copper foil tape to wrap the edges of small pieces of glass. This then allows sections to be soldered together to make lampshades, panels, boxes etc. Leading This is the familar method employed to make large windows such as those in churches, town halls and other large and important buildings. The glass is cut to a predrawn picture (cartoon) which are held together with sections of preformed lead ( lead came). The strips of lead are then soldered at the joints. The whole panel is then sealed to make it water proof using lead light cement. In this way huge windows can be built up. During the 1920's & 30's many houses around Britain were graced with door panels and windows with leaded glass but these are fast disappearing to be replaced with bland double glazing! The technique has been in use hundreds of years and windows of this type can be found in many old and historical buildings such as Hampton Court and the Tower of London. |
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