The Cutting
A simple glass cutting tool is used to score a line where you want the glass to break...straight lines are easier than curves!
Keep scrolling down to see what happens next.
The Making
From the smallest sun catcher to the largest window panel, the making process is the same. The copper foiling technique was made famous by Tiffany lampshades. It allows more detail to be included and the solder lines are more refined than the lead strips used in windows.
Follow below how this 'Angel of the North' commission was created.
The Pattern
Depending on the complexity of a piece, I will often start with drawing the pattern and cutting out on vinyl on my Cricut machine. This extra step just helps to make the pieces of glass fit more precisely after cutting.
The Grinding
Each piece of glass will have little bobbles or shards to be removed so the edges are smooth. I could not be without this machine even though it is the part that I least like to do.
The Foiling
Foiling is like Marmite to glass workers and I lie in the love it side! I can move away from my work desk and foil anywhere. My favourite is on the sofa while watching Netflix or on a nice day I like to sit in the garden and foil.
Copper tape is wrapped around the edges of all of the pieces of glass then burnished flat. The tape is then tidied up with a craft knife, this gives a nicer solder line.
The Soldering
As with many pieces of art, the preparation must be completed to make the final piece work. Flux is added to the copper tape and the solder (60% tin 40% lead ) is melted to fix the pieces together. A nice rounded solder line provides strength on both the front and back of the panel. Depending on the piece, solder beading, lead came or zinc can be added to the edges.
The Finishing Touches
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Cleaning, adding a patina & Polishing
After soldering is complete, each piece is carefully cleaned to remove any flux residue and oxidation. A patina is applied to the solder then it is polished to a shine.
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Quality Inspection
Every commission undergoes rigorous quality control. We inspect solder joints, check for any imperfections, and ensure the piece meets our high standards before it leaves our studio.
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Packaging and Delivery
Your finished piece is carefully packaged with protective materials to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. We offer secure shipping options and provide tracking information for peace of mind. Local to Newcastle? Then we will hand deliver.
