What is stained glass?
Stained glass is real glass that has metal oxides added
to the liquid molten state. The type of oxides added
and how they are combined in the liquid state create the
different swirling patterns and combinations of color.
After cooling, these metals create the different colors.
The pigment for the red color is more costly and
likewise glass containing red, yellow, and orange cost
more.
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Is stained glass fragile?
The small and medium stained glass pieces
are surprisingly sturdy. The larger the size, the
heavier the piece becomes. Very large pieces may
require metal supports integrated into the pattern
and/or a wooden frame for support.
Our stained glass work is held together by using the
copper foil method. Solder sticks to the foil
surrounding each piece of glass and a zinc frame is
usually added for support and stability. There are 3
colors to choose from for the zinc frame and solder
lines; bright copper, bright silver or deep grey.
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Can I buy a piece I see in your shop or on the web site?
Some of the pieces you see may be for sale. However, we
have created many of the pieces for specific customers. If you want to duplicate any of these, we would be happy
to customize one using the colors and glass styles you
select. We can also change the proportional dimensions
to make it smaller or larger.
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Can you find a pattern for me?
We have some patterns in stock and have
software access to hundreds of patterns. We can help
you find a specific object or type of art. Patterns can
usually be accommodated to be a specific dimension. Often this can be done by adding borders to an existing
pattern. We can also work up a custom design. Custom
designs require pre-payment of a design fee.
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How do I pick out glass?
We can make glass suggestions based on
your pattern selected. You can choose from see-through
glass to opaque styles varying in single or multiple
colors. We have a variety of glass and bevels on hand
in our shop. We can also accompany you to
other businesses that stock stained glass.
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How much will my design cost?
The price depends on the size of the
piece, the intricacy of the design (the number of
individual glass pieces), and the type of glass you select. Beveled glass sets, beveled shapes, and faceted
jewels also add to the cost of the piece. Using these types of glass in moderation gives your piece a striking
accent with a small added cost.
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What type of payments do you accept?
At this
time we accept payment by cash, money order, or secured
check. We also offer incremental payments (lay-a-way). Pieces will not be released to the customer until paid
in full. We are required to collect and report Texas
sales tax.
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How long will it take to make?
The length of time required to complete your piece depends on the size of the piece and the intricacy of the design (the number of individual glass pieces). Most pieces can be completed within a few weeks or sooner.
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How do I hang my Art Glass?
Each piece comes with a metal chain for hanging. Since your finished
piece is somewhat heavy compared to its size, we recommend you screw the hook(s) into a window header or
wall stud when hanging. We are not responsible for
any damage caused by unsecured hooks. Sheetrock hanging
devices do not provide sufficient strength to hang
glass.
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How do I care for my Art Glass?
You may keep dust off your piece with a soft cloth or
compressed air. If your piece becomes soiled, you may
rinse it with water and wipe dry with a soft
cloth and re-hang. If you have a piece framed with
wood, wipe the glass with a damp cloth to clean it.
Pieces exposed to any moist or humid conditions may
develop a white oxidation on the solder or frame.
This can be removed by rubbing with a steel wool
pad. Be aware that if your piece has a dark
grey finish, the steel wool will also remove the
finish. Contact us of you need your finish
touched up.
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How long will my Art Glass last?
Like a piece of fine art, your art glass will hold its
value well and can be cherished for generations. Your
piece will last indefinitely if kept indoors. We
recommend hanging it where direct sunlight will enhance
its beauty.
Moist and humid environments such as outdoors,
patios, and bathrooms are not recommended since it
will affect the finish of the metal portions of the
stained glass art. If you desire to display
your piece in these types of environments enclose
the artwork between two clear glass pieces to seal
out the moisture. If you want to permanently
protect your stained glass art to hang in a moist
environment, triple glazing is recommended.
Contact any local company that specializes in
residential window sales and installation to request
pricing and information.
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How do I store my Stained Glass piece?
If your stained glass piece needs to be stored, it is
best to place it in an upright position. Laying a large
piece flat for a long period of time will cause the
middle to sag or warp under the weight of the
unsupported portion of the glass.
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How do I contact you to request more
information?
Go to our Contact Us page and you will find all the
necessary information to reach us by phone, mail or
email.
