Stained Glass Commissions
Stained glass is a timeless art form, and the pieces I make are not only unique and original, but they will last a lifetime! Each one is carefully handmade using a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques, and I can make them with just about any glass you can imagine.
My main focus is character work, but I will take on virtually any project! Scale-wise I'm limited to small and medium pieces currently, but I can do both simple and complex work at any scale.
Whether you are looking for a suncatcher of your favorite character, plant or animal, or a more abstract/pattered design I can create it for you.
CONTENTS
GALLERY
Check out these examples of some of my finished suncatchers!
How Do These Commissions Work?
We'll start by discussing your idea, as well as your glass choices, and I will give you an estimated quote. If you choose to move on with the project from there, I will start designing it.
I will work with you to create a suncatcher design that is both attractive and practical, and after it is approved, move on to production.
I have tools to do shapes that would be impossible with traditional glass cutting techniques, so I am only limited by the materials and my imagination. If we can think it up, I can probably make it happen!
If you have questions about a design, or would like a quote, use the button on the top of this page to send an inquiry.
The initial design will look something like this.
What Kind of Glass Will I Use?
There are many varieties of glass available that we can use for your stained glass project. From bright transparent cathedral glass to swirling and colorful opalescent glass, I can design around many types. Each design is different, and I will use mock-ups to illustrate how your glass choice will affect the final look of your project.
I will do my best to help you select glass that will fit the project well, both when backlit and lit from the front, so you can enjoy your stained glass at all times of day.
I stock many types of glass but if I dont have what we need, I can order it. Some colors and textures are more expensive, but if the choices affect price I will discuss it with you.
I will show you how your glass choices look backlit before cutting.
What is a Patina?
You've probably heard of patinas with regards to antiques, but the patina on a stained glass is artificial toning that colors the lead structure of a piece.
Typically, the lead structure is bright and silver, but a patina can be applied to change the color to black or copper, as seen in the image to the right.
These finishes can add an extra touch to an already interesting design, and make the lines of a suncatcher more cohesive with the colors of the piece.
Patinas can be used to make the lines blend, or to make them pop!
These three pieces each have a different patina. From left to right the finishes are: No patina, copper patina, and black patina.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long will my design take to make?
The time it will take me to complete a piece will depend on the size and complexity of your design, as well as if I am currently working on YCHs or other work at the same time. Typically, It will take 1-3 months from payment to when I ship a design out.
If I have to order glass, that time may be extended, although if I have the glass in-stock it may take less time. Patina (coloring the soldered structure of the glass) will add 5 or so days to the work time. Rush order pricing can be discussed.
Will you ship to my country?
I offer worldwide shipping, and will ship to any country that isn't affected by current sanctions from the USA. Typically USA shipping is included in the quote. If you would like a shipping quote to another country, please let me know.
All stained glass pieces are shipped securely in a double-carton box with foam and bubble wrap, and will ship fully insured. I charge actual rates for shipping so they will vary country to country.
What options besides glass choice are offered?
As mentioned before, I offer all kinds of glass options, and can also offer to add a chain to your piece for hanging, as well as your choice of patina to color the lead structure of your stained glass piece. The colors I offer are black and copper, or you can choose to leave the solder shiny silver.
If you have other options in mind, please feel free to ask!
Can I pay with a payment plan?
Yes! Typically I ask for a down-payment of at least half the value of your project before I will begin, but other options can be discussed if needed, and depending on the cost of your project. I realize that these pieces are expensive, and want to help you out with payment any way I can.
I will not ship the piece until it is paid off, however.
Why is stained glass so expensive?
There are a lot of steps that go into creating these pieces! Typically, these take me anywhere from 20 to 40 hours to complete, and the glass and materials themselves are not cheap either. (Just a single 12" by 12" piece of glass is typically 20-40 USD shipped, and I often use 6 or more colors per piece)
I have to create the design, design/cut the pattern, glue the patterns to the glass, cut the glass, grind the edges smooth, and then I have to apply the copper tape, solder the piece, apply structural wire and hooks, polish and clean the piece, and then apply patina as well as a protective coating. It takes a lot of time and labor to make stained glass!
How large can my piece be?
11" by 17" (~280 mm by 432 mm) is typically the largest I can work, but depending on the design I can adjust the dimensions as-needed! Let me know if you have questions about the size you have in mind.
I only do glass with the copper-tape method currently, and it ceases to be structural if it gets too large, but I take steps to reinforce pieces as-needed.
Do you make stained glass windows?
Currently, I do not offer stained glass windows. They are created using came (lead channels) instead of soldered structure, and so not have experience with this technique. I would be willing to offer larger panels depending on the project, but cannot offer advice on mounting as a window, sorry.
I may be able to offer wooden-framed pieces larger than stated above, but that would require consultation and discussion. Let me know using the button at the top of the page if you have questions!
How do I care for my stained glass piece?
Stained glass pieces are constructed using low-maintenance materials, and they are very simple to take care of.
The glass itself can be cleaned using any glass-safe cleaner, and a soft cloth. Suncatchers can also be washed using soap and water, and are safe to let air-dry. As the structure is made of lead, please do not wash or dry with towels used for hygiene or culinary applications.
If the lead structure or glass on your suncatcher loses its shine, you can apply car wax similar to how you would use it on a vehicle. Apply a thin, even coat on the glass and lead structure, then after it dries completely, buff clean with a towel or micro fiber cloth. Multiple coats may be needed. DO NOT USE A CLEANER WAX OR POLISH IF YOUR STAINED GLASS HAS COPPER OR BLACK PATINA ON THE LEAD. These products will remove the color.
You can use most metal polishes to shine up the lead if it is not patinaed, and is plain silver. Make sure to wash the piece after polishing, and apply wax as stated above if you use a polish.
Do you repair broken or damaged stained glass?
Yes, in most cases I can repair broken or damaged pieces if they were made by me. Most repairs will require payment, as they usually require care and labor to do, and I would be happy to quote you if you have a question about a repair.
Pieces damaged in shipping are insured and can usually be repaired free-of-charge, as long as they are returned to me.
If you have questions about any repair, even one on a piece NOT made by me, feel free to use the button at the top of the page to send me an inquiry.
How much do commissions cost?
Commission prices are based on the size of the design, the glass type, patina choice, as well as whether or not I need to order the glass or if I have it in-stock. If you would like a quote or to discuss pricing, use the button at the top of this page to send an inquiry!
An average sized piece (Approx. 15" Tall x 9" Wide / 381 mm x 229 mm) will cost around $350-400 USD. Simple mini glass pieces could be as cheap as $60 USD, but typically character designs will be $250+ USD.