Learn and Master The Traditional Leaded Method of Stained Glass Creation

Duration

Your first session will last about 2 hours, during which you will create your template and pick your glass. Most projects require an additional 2 - 3 (4-hour) sessions to complete.

All Masterclass projects require multiple sessions.

About

The traditional lead came method of stained-glass creation had its first historical reference in 675 AD when Benedict Bishop imported workers from France to glaze the windows of the St. Peter monastery.

Found in churches, chapels, and homes throughout the world and the ages, this intense and intricate method will continue to be revered and practiced for generations.

The lead came method is the most expensive and challenging method of stained glass. It's most commonly practiced in professional studios today. Students should expect a steep initial learning curve, with the eventual payoff of speed in creating 2D windows.

How it Works

Masterclasses are held in multiple sessions. After the initial 2-hour session, most students complete projects in 2 – 3 sessions, each about 4 hours long. Students set the pace and can move at the speed they feel comfortable.

When we hold classes, 11:00 am—to 2:30 pm is typically reserved for our lead masterclass students. After your initial session masterclass, students will also have most Fridays as an option for working on their project. You'll work directly with your teacher at the end of each session to schedule your next session.

Pricing

Masterclass prices are determined by the pattern you choose. The price of the pattern you select is the total price to complete your project. The cost includes using our tools, materials, and sessions. There are no hidden or additional fees!

The pattern price is influenced by the number of pieces, the complexity, and the average number of sessions it takes to complete.

Project Details and Size

Most of our lead came class projects are 14″ x 14″.

Custom Class Designs

We are happy to create custom designs! We charge a $30 fee in addition to the class price for converting your ideas into a stained-glass pattern. The class price is determined by the number of pieces, the complexity, and the estimated number of sessions it will take to complete.

Contact us with your ideas; we are happy to discuss them!

What You Will Learn

You will learn to complete a panel in the design of your choice using the lead came method of stained glass creation.

You'll learn to create a template for your pattern, the assembly process of slotting the glass into H-sectioned lead cames, and the tips and tricks for cutting the lead to make "pretty" angles. All the joints are then soldered together. Last but not least, to prevent the glass from rattling and to make the window weatherproof, you'll learn the process of forcing a soft, oily cement between the glass and lead, which is called glazing or mudding.

What You Will Not Learn

You will not learn how to cut glass with your first project. We have learned through experience that students have a much higher success rate when they can focus on mastering the medium before embarking on the journey of learning glass cutting.

Most students take a glass-cutting class after their first or second project and use the knowledge to complete their next project.

What To Bring

Bring your readers or prescription glasses; you will be glad you did! All tools, materials, and supplies needed for the project are provided. Coffee, water, and snacks are available to students (for free.) You're welcome to bring water or your own drinks or snacks.