Here Are the Stained Glass Methods You'll Need to Be Familiar With

There are two major types of stained glass methods you’ll come across. There is a third one that is a bit different, but one that Randy started with to get his feet wet in creating stained glass.

This article will provide you a basic outline, the pros of each, and help you decide which technique may work best for you.

1. Lead Came:
This is a more traditional process of making stained glass. The pieces of glass are cut and the fit like a glove into metal channeling, called cames.

Cames come in various sizes and metal types and lead is the most common. Other hard metals also used include zinc, brass, and copper.

The joints on the came are soldered together to create strength. This is a good method for large patterns of stained glass. This stained glass method is one that is lengthy & detailed.

Click here to learn all about the lead came process

2. Copper Foil:
This is the best method (in our opinion) for beginners. With this strategy, the glass is cut into the pattern pieces.

The edges of each piece is covered with a copper foil (hence the name). This foil is helpful by making soldering easier to adhere.

This method is perfect for window panels, boxes, and lampshades.

Check out how to do the copper foil method

3. Glass Mosaic:
Stained glass can also be applied to clear glass such as a square jar or vase.

This method is similar to making mosaic tiles, but instead of an opaque look, it will be translucent.

This is one of the best methods for clear glass items.

Again, this is a basic outline and we'll get into more detail in other sections.

This should provide you some idea as to which method will work best on your next/first project.