Intro Series Leaded & Copper Foiled Glass
 
4 Sessions, each from 12:45  to 4:30 p.m.
 
Sunday May 4
Saturday, May 10 (May 11th is Mother's Day)
Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18
 
 
Class fee: $220
Materials fee: $80 
Total Investment: $300 
 
Minimum 6 students, maxium 10
 
In this introductory course you will learn how to design patterns, make patterns, cut glass, assemble the piece, solder, and finish. You'll learn the tricks needed to construct a window that will fit into the exact dimensions of an established opening. Students will complete two small projects, one leaded and one copper foiled, to have experience in the two most widely used techniques for creating stained glass. A third technique is commonly used, but employs the use of a glass kiln and will not be introduced in this series.
 
During the first lesson students will begin cutting glass, learn about creating patterns, and begin a small, simple project. Using the copper foil technique, we will each construct a night light.  Students will use our tools. Materials, including the night light fixture, will be provided. 
 
For the second project, students will complete a small, simple leaded project. Through this project, students will learn: 
how to calculate measurements to fit a project into a predefined space (an architectural opening or a frame)
design principles
the complete process of constructing a leaded stained glass window.
Students will use our tools. Materials will be provided. 
 
After completing the two projects students will have experienced both leading and copper foiling. At this point each individual will have enough familiarity with the processes, tools, and materials to decide on a preference in construction method.  
 
In the four sessions, most people will finish their projects and have some classroom time available to work on designing their next piece, to be done independently. Instruction and experience with the limitations of the glass medium will help students develop a feasible project design of their own. If a student has enought time in class to also begin the third project, students can use Scarab tools in class to work on the project. Materials are not provided for the third project.
 
Q. So how many projects are we making?
A. Two.
First, everyone will make a copper foiled nightlight.
Second, everyone will make a small leaded piece.
A third piece might be started. Students should have time to design this next piece. It is likely a third piece will be started in class. Some people might be able to start cutting out the pattern or cutting the glass for their third piece. Materials will not be provided for the third piece.
 
Q. Can I get help planning my design?
A. Students will have individualized help planning their design for their projects. 
We have an extensive library of pattern books availble for students to use. 
Patterns are available on the internet
The instructor is available to advise on the difficulty/feasibility of their project plan, with advice on modifications to simplify construction challenges.
Students can draw their own patterns, and will receive input from the insturctor on the feasibility and difficulty of the proposed design.
 
Q. What happens if i don't finish my 2 projects in the 4 class sessions?
A.  It is unlikely people aren't able to finish the first two projects in class. But if someone doesn't finish, arrangements can be made to come in and use class tools to complete the project. Additional  instruction outside of class time is available as a private lesson.
 
Q. What if I start a third project?
A. Some students will begin a third project. The completion of this third project is dependent on the complexity and difficulty, and the ability of the student to employ the techniques taught. It is not likely a student will finish 3 projects in the 5 class sessions.
If the project isn't completed, we're available to continue helping you
on an informal basis via text or email 
in additional private lessons
 
Q. Can I make up a missed class?
A.  Students who miss a class can catch up with the instruction they missed  in subsequent classes. Additional instruction outside of the 4 scheduled class sessions is available in private lessons. 
 
For more information please contact Maggie at MaggieBCourtis@gmail.com.
 
Cancellation and Refund Policies
Glass Safety 
See our Art Blog for glass art information
 
Tools and Supplies
For the first session please bring the following:
Apron - optional
 
Additional supplies may be needed in the final weekend for artistis who begin a third project. You will learn about these tools and use Scarab tools  in the two introductory projects. A detailed list with places to shop is given in one of our blog articles.
 
Cautions when you're shopping:
We don't recommend cheap glass cutters from Hobby Lobby (or anywhere else). Quality is particularly important for this important tool.  
Tools and supplies available on Amazon are often inferior quality, even "name brands," which are reported, on stained glass Facebook groups, to be knock-offs that fail quickly.
 
Bullseye stores give discounts based on quantity of product pruchased, up to 50% off.