Intro to Stained Glass: Foil Method

Instructor: Lenneke Verweij
Mondays 5:30-8:30pm
5 weeks: September 18 to October 23, no class October 9
Location: In-person Williams Building room 117
$235 plus $65 for glass and use of equipment
Prerequisite: None

Stained glass goes back a thousand years, but the foil method was first used and patented in 1886. The modern use of copper foil has made it easier to make light weight glass works and to make stronger 3D art like lamp shades, boxes, and other shapes.  

In this class, students will learn the importance of a well-designed pattern and the proper cutting of the template, the tracing of the pattern onto the glass paying attention to the flow of the glass texture and design, cutting the glass, grinding each piece to fit well, cleaning, foiling and burnishing the edges and finally, the soldering technique for this foil project.

This method will be discussed in depth as we progress through each step. Each step must be done carefully so as to facilitate the next and the assembling of the entire project.

Syllabus

  • Cutting patterns
  • Tracing patterns
  • Cutting glass into the different shapes
  • Grinding and fitting the glass pieces
  • Applying the foil
  • Burnishing
  • Soldering
  • Clean-up

Supplies

  • Glass, paid on registration and provided in class
  • Stained glass kit, approximately $70 (tax included) paid to Lenneke (owner of Hands on Art) on the first night:
    • Foil
    • Flux and brush
    • 60/40 solder
    • Lathkin
    • Neutral cleaner
  • Other supplies to bring:
    • Scissors
    • Pencil
    • Ruler
    • Ultra fine black marker
    • Hammer
    • Rubber gloves
    • Closed-toed shoes
    • Safety glasses
    • Any tools you have (please put your name on them)
  • Tools that you will borrow in class: 
    • Grinders
    • Soldering irons
    • Glass cutters
    • Grozier pliers
    • Running pliers