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Design Options for Three Stained Glass Windows
May 22nd, 2009
Design one
Design two
Today I met with my client to show her two designs for her windows. I came up with one that was pretty traditional with bevel clusters and jewels and another that was more contemporary with rondels and jewels. Both designs have mostly clear textured glass with a little green and opal colors. Since I didn’t have a lot to go by as far as what to design, I went into the meeting not having any idea which one she would choose! Unfortunately, she didn’t decide on the spot because she needs her husband’s input and approval. I ended up leaving the designs and glass samples with her and will find out next week what they decide. I hope they go with the more contemporary because that’s more my style, but I would love to do the other one as well. These windows will make a real impact on their house as people walk into their front door. They are located at the top of the stairs leading to the second floor and can be seen right when you walk into their house. I hope they go for it!
Taking Out Old Leaded Stained Glass Windows
May 16th, 2009
Old Window
Glass removed
Before I start designing windows for this project, I want to take the old stained glass windows out. The house was built in 1929 and I’m sure these windows were put in at the same time. The caulk holding the windows in was rock hard! I ended up using a chisel with a hammer to loosen and remove the caulk. It actually worked out pretty well. I didn’t damage the wood which was my main concern. I’m not sure what I’m going to do with the windows since my client doesn’t want them. I may take them apart and use the glass in future restoration work.
Leaded Stained Glass Repair
May 15th, 2009
Before
During
After
A couple brought in this cabinet door that had been broken by a dog toy. It was a family heirloom and they were concerned that it wouldn’t look the same. It had to match another door. Since the glass was clear, that wasn’t a problem.
Once I got the stained glass out of the frame, the challenge was to get the broken glass out without breaking the surrounding pieces. Since the window was old and the cement was very hard, the lead wasn’t coming off of the glass. I ended up using a heat gun to soften the lead. That worked like a charm! I replaced the 3 broken pieces and was able to use the same lead. To replace the cement that fell out, I recemented the window, cleaned it up and it was done!