Stained glass has been made since the middle ages. The methods used today have changed very little since then. Originally the term 'Stained Glass' was used to describe any glass that had been painted or stained. Today when people think of stained glass they are referring to panels made of coloured glass which may contain painted (fired) pieces. There are two techniques in use, lead work and copper foiling. Lead work is generally used for windows or decorative panels. Copper foil is used for more intricate work such as light shades or suncatchers. A detailed copper foiled section may be

fitted into a lead work panel.

Steps for Making a Lead Work Panel
1) The design is drawn onto paper the same size as the final panel.
2) Each piece of glass is carefully selected and then hand cut to size to fit onto the pattern. Glass may be painted and fired at this stage.
3) Each piece of glass is then hand filed to remove any sharp edges.
4) 'H 'shaped lead is then cut to fit around each piece of glass. The glass and lead are held securely in place by horseshoe nails hammered into a board below the pattern.
5) Once all of the pieces are in place all of the joints between the pieces of lead are fluxed and soldered on both sides.
6) The completed panel is then cemented on both sides. This makes it strong and weatherproof.
7) The final step is to clean and polish the panel. Then it is ready for fitting.

Steps for Making a Copper Foil Panel.
1) The glass is all cut to sized and filed as above.
2) Each piece is then wrapped in adhesive backed copper foil.
3) The copper is then covered in solder (tinning).
4) A bead of solder is then placed over the copper to hold the pieces together. This is done on both sides.