11/6/13 8:38 PM How to Make Stained Glass: 12 Steps - wikiHow

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How to Make Stained Glass
The term stained glass generally refers to the process of combining various
shapes of already colored glass. The color of stained glass comes from the
addition of metallic salts during its manufacturing. Stained glass is prominently
displayed in church windows as huge mosaics, as well as in certain styles of
lampshades and mirrors. Creating stained glass objects requires some skill
and precision, but the ability can be acquired. Use these steps to make stained
glass.
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1
Pick a project.
There are a number of ways stained glass can be shaped and used. Beginners
might consider a simple panel to affix to a window, but ideas such as screens,
sun catchers, boxes and ornaments are options also.
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Steps
11/6/13 8:38 PM How to Make Stained Glass: 12 Steps - wikiHow
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2
Find a pattern.
Look for inspiration in books and in nature. Beginners should choose a pattern
that is broad and simple, such as a flower. You can also design your own
pattern.
11/6/13 8:38 PM How to Make Stained Glass: 12 Steps - wikiHow
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3
Choose a type of glass.
Choosing your glass is a matter of preference. There are dozens of types that
range in price, availability, texture and color. You will need to consider the
degree of transparency in the glass as well as how easy it is cut. You can
combine different types of glass within the same project.
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5
Purchase your glass.
Stained glass comes in large sheets. The smallest sheet is approximately 1 foot
by 1 foot (30.48 cm by 30.48 cm) with the largest being four times that size. Buy
enough glass for the size of your project, but keep in mind that about a quarter
of what you buy will not be utilized after trimming.
Make your template.
Draw, copy or print out your pattern on a piece of paper at actual size. Cut the
pattern into its separate pieces and label them by color and grain direction.
Place the pattern under (or over) the glass and trace the outline with a thin
permanent marker. Leave a centimeter or less of room for the thickness of the
copper foil.
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Score your glass.
Hold the glass cutter as you would a pencil and press it into the glass gently.
Begin at a point away from your body and begin scraping inward.
Move around your pattern, rotating the glass as necessary to keep proper form.
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8
Cut your glass.
For straight pieces, as soon as you see a line forming, place pliers in the crack
and squeeze to separate the piece.
For curved sections, use the glass cutter to break through the scoring. Don't
worry if the piece breaks off slightly jagged; you can remove them later.
Foil your glass.
Wash your cut glass in a bath of water mixed with a drop of ammonia. Dry each
piece off thoroughly.
Cover the edges of the glass with 7/32 inch copper foil. Make sure the foil is
centered. This can be done by hand or with a table foiler.
Fold the extra foil around the edges of the glass.
Press the foil down hard with tongue depressor. This will ensure the foil
adheres to the glass.
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9
Solder your glass.
Place the stained glass segments together and heat the iron.
Apply flux to the seams.
Set the 60/40 solder on the seams and follow the foil framing slowly.
Turn the piece over and repeat the soldering on the opposite side.
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Attach a zinc frame for stability.
Apply patina to the frame. Solder lines to change the color of the seams.
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Finished.
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You can break the glass by placing the scored portion over an edge
and hitting downward with your hand.
If the stained glass is warm, it will cut easier.
Practice practice PRACTICE!
Use a cutting square for straight cuts, not a corked back rule. The cork
backing keeps it from sliding on and scratching glass but was never
intended to be used as a cutting edge.
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Do not score too deeply. This will cause the glass to break awkwardly.
Always protect your eyes and fingers when cutting and soldering
Tips
Warnings
11/6/13 8:38 PM How to Make Stained Glass: 12 Steps - wikiHow
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stained glass.
Stained glass
Permanent marker
Glass cutter
Paper template
Pliers
Water
Ammonia
Copper foil
Tongue depressor
Solder iron
Zinc
Patina
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Step by Step Stained Glass Tutorial
Things You'll Need
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Sources and Citations
11/6/13 8:38 PM How to Make Stained Glass: 12 Steps - wikiHow
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Source for Stained Glass Beginners
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Categories: Glass and Stained Glass Projects
Recent edits by: T.N.R, Scott Cushman, Thomscher
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