Enhance Your Stained Glass Art With Other Materials
Stained glass is beautiful on its own, but when you incorporate other materials, it can take your project to a whole new level. Wood adds a natural feel, while metal offers a refreshing contrast; paper, plastic, and cloth add a touch of fun. The possibilities are endless, and you can use any material you can think of: rocks & crystals, leather, and more. As long as you are careful and wear your protective gear, you can incorporate stained glass with nearly anything.
At Hollander Fusing and Art Glass Center, we supply creative individuals and businesses with everything needed to create awe-inspiring stained glass work, such as bevels, cutting systems, glass, chemicals, and more. We also offer tips and tricks, so if you’re stuck on a project or need some ideas to get started, we are happy to help. Below are some ideas to consider for your stained glass artwork.
Stained Glass and Wood
Imagine a wooden door with a stained glass window, wooden kitchen cabinets with stained glass panes, or the sun shining through your stained glass and wooden structure in your front yard. You can create all of these yourself: here are some tips on how to do so.
- To incorporate stained glass into wood, first carve your design into the wood, then remove the carved portion to create a cavity. Create a groove in the wood to insert the glass. Next, assemble your glass and cut it if necessary to fill the cavity. Add the glass pieces one at a time. You can then use silicone, glazing points, or rubber gaskets to hold the glass in place. Finish with a wood stop bead and clear silicone for reinforcement and to reduce rattling.
- If you are incorporating glass into furniture, we recommend adding a plexiglass backing or clear epoxy resin for an extra layer of security.
- Remember to paint or stain the wood before adding the glass.
Stained Glass and Metal
Metal offers a great backdrop for stained glass - the neutral-toned metal paired with the dazzling stained glass is undeniably a great combination. Perfect for wind chimes or suncatchers, stained glass with metal makes a wonderful addition to your home or business. If you are attempting to craft your own stained glass & metal art, bear in mind:
- Metal frames are heavy: if you plan on hanging up your art, make sure the nail has a high weight capacity.
- You can use welding tabs or clamps to secure the glass and avoid pressure points.
- Do not mix different types of metal together.
- If you plan to display your project outdoors, use aluminum or copper, as they are both heat-resistant and rust-resistant. Seal with UV-resistant silicone.
- Allow room (cushion) for the glass & metal to expand.
- Zinc is the ideal metal for framing as it’s strong and durable.
Safety & Stained Glass Work
Creating stained glass artwork is fun, but caution is required. When working with stained glass, please keep the following in mind:
- There is a difference between fusible glass and stained glass. While both fusible and stained glass can be colored, fusible glass can be easily combined with other materials through melting and fusing, whereas stained glass is more limited—it can typically only be incorporated into other works by soldering its metal outlines (usually copper) to matching metals, or by layering the glass.
- Always wear proper gloves, eye protection, and a respirator when working with chemicals. You can find them on our online store.
- A smooth, stable work surface is necessary.
- Good things take time. Be patient and stay alert. Don’t work with stained glass if you feel tired or distracted.
Let’s Collaborate
Not only do we provide all the materials and equipment for a successful stained glass project, but we also support. If you’re just starting your stained glass journey, welcome! We're happy you're here. Our sample set packs are perfect for beginners and as gifts. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, turn to us for ideas, questions about techniques, or simply chat with us about the wonders of stained glass art. We’d also love to see your final results - feel free to share a picture of your project with us! Contact us to dive deeper into the world of stained glass.