Stained Glass - Level 1 Award in Creative Craft

About this course

Participants develop a personal stained glass project from initial research and design through to a leaded or copper-foiled panel. The course introduces colour theory, composition, cartoons, cut-line drawings, accurate glass cutting, lead came construction, copper foiling and basic soldering. It also covers kiln-fired glass painting, including line, shading, paint application and firing schedules. Historical and contemporary stained glass provide context for developing individual work. Teaching combines demonstrations, practical activities, presentations, tutorials, group discussions and formal feedback. Progress is recorded through sketchbooks, reflections and photographic evidence, with assessment based on a portfolio rather than formal examinations.

What you'll learn

• Plan and develop a stained glass design using research, colour theory and composition.
• Translate a two-dimensional design into a cartoon and cut-line drawing.
• Cut and shape glass accurately for panel construction.
• Construct a panel using lead came and apply introductory copper-foiling and soldering techniques.
• Produce samples of kiln-fired glass painting using line, shading and mixed glass paint.
• Record and review the development of skills, techniques and design work in a portfolio.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and learners with some creative craft experience who want an introduction to stained glass. No previous stained glass experience is required, although basic literacy, numeracy and digital skills appropriate to Level 1 are expected. Participation includes individual project work, discussions and practical workshop tasks.

• No prior stained glass experience is required.
• Learners should be prepared to complete course requirements and maintain records of their work.
• Some additional tasks may be set for completion at home.
• Research visits to stained glass examples are recommended.

Before you go

• Basic glass, lead and soldering materials are supplied.
• Learners need to provide their own sketchbook.
• Additional specialised materials may need to be purchased if they are not available in the workshop.
• An apron is useful because some processes are messy.