Stained Glass

About this course

Participants develop designs for stained-glass panels, exploring colour, texture and light before producing a cartoon and accurate cutting pattern. The course covers glass cutting, leading, soldering, cementing and finishing, with introductions to copper foiling and paint techniques for decorating glass surfaces. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, group and one-to-one tuition, and discussions. An initial assessment considers each learner’s skills, experience, confidence, learning preferences and objectives, with progress reviewed throughout the course.

What you'll learn

• Develop stained-glass panel designs using colour, texture and light
• Create a cartoon and translate it into an accurate cutting pattern
• Cut glass for use in a stained-glass panel
• Apply leading, soldering, cementing and finishing techniques
• Use copper foiling and paint techniques to decorate glass surfaces

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and learners with existing experience. The all-levels label indicates that teaching is adapted to different starting points, rather than establishing a specific entry requirement. Participants work in a workshop setting with group and individual tuition and need to stand, cut, concentrate, understand verbal instructions and use equipment safely.

• Requires good eyesight, hand strength and manual dexterity
• Involves standing and cutting during workshop activities
• Work with lead and solder may be unsuitable during pregnancy; consultation with a GP is advised
• Learners need to follow verbal instructions and use workshop equipment safely

Before you go

• Learners need a sketchbook, pencils, black felt pens, drawing paper, a ruler and set square, rubber, craft knife, masking tape, and workshop clothes or an apron.
• Open shoes should not be worn.
• Protective eyewear, masks and gloves are available on request.
• Returning learners are encouraged to acquire their own tools.
• The tutor can advise on sourcing materials, and a basic range of glass and lead is available for purchase.