Process Of Making A Stained Glass Window
The process of making a stained glass window is a simple one in theory. However, in practice, it takes a huge amount of skill to master the craft.
History of Stained Glass Windows
Stained glass has been around for generations. The tools used by craftsmen to make glass date back to at least 5000 years ago and some forms of stained glass were thought to have been used by European Christian churches by the third and fourth centuries A.D.
When you think of stained glass your brain likely goes to Gothic architecture. Today, stained glass from that period can still be found in religious buildings, residential and industrial architecture. However, stained glass windows are usually recalled most commonly in churches to display chapters of the bible or figures of Mary and Christ for the congregation to view while they worship.
How Stained Glass Windows Are Made
The first step of making a stained glass window is creating the window pattern. A full-sized drawing is made called the cartoon and prepared in black and white. This is a guide for placing the pieces of glass on and then binding them together with lead.
The pattern is then placed on the piece of glass in the desired colour and then traced around with a diamond or steel wheel. After the glass has been cut the main outlines of the cartoon on painted with ‘vitrifiable’ paint which becomes glassy when heated. To get an effect of depth the glass is held up to the light and then layers of paint are added. This simulates the conditions in which the glass will be positioned.
A strip of narrow lead is applied around the exposed edge. This binds the different pieces of glass together. Every joint on the window that has been formed must be soldered, on both sides. This ensures the window will stay together. The entire window is then waterproofed to protect it from the elements and is thoroughly inspected in the light.
Stained Glass Windows We Have On Offer
Here at Authentic Reclamation, we have a wide range of reclaimed items coming in and out of the doors of our yard in Stonegate. This week we have had a few stained glass windows arrive, which was the inspiration for us to learning about the process and writing this blog.
Pair of Beautiful Bird Design Stained Windows
Stock ref: 146240201
Approx Size (H,W,D) : 1145mm x 405mm x 450mm
Price: £225 each or 400 pair + VAT
Here we have this Pair of Beautiful Bird Design Stained Windows in stock and on display in our showroom at Authentic Reclamation. Both of these have a few small cracks.
We have a wide range of windows in stock; stain glass, leaded Windows & Regular Windows. If this is an item that doesn’t suit for what you are looking for then please take a look at our window selection.
Stunning Aged Stained Glass Window
Stock ref: 146240203
Approx Size (H,W,D) : 1815mm x 567mm x 95mm
Price: £850 + VAT
Here we have this Stunning Aged Stained Glass Window in stock and on display in our showroom at Authentic Reclamation.
Unfortunately, this window has a large number of small cracks and chips. This will be reflected in pictures and prices.
We have a wide range of windows in stock; stain glass, leaded Windows & Regular Windows. If this is an item that doesn’t suit for what you are looking for then please take a look at our window selection.
Reclaimed Ornaments For Gardens
Are you looking for reclaimed stained glass windows and doors? Then please come and see us at Authentic Reclamation. If you have any questions about the products that we have on our website, please call us on 01580 201258 or email info@authentic-reclamation.co.uk.
Note: Due to high demand, some items featured in this blog may already be sold. To find out if an item is available either get in touch or simply select the ‘more about this item’ button. Here it will be marked as out of stock if already sold.