COMMISSIONING A STAINED GLASS WINDOW

Stained glass is not merely functional or decorative, it can change the whole mood of a room. Whether you want to complement existing decorative glass, make a bold architectural statement, gain privacy and a focal point or want to enjoy the beauty of a unique work of art, stained glass provides a wealth of possibilities.

At Ember Glass Studio each commission is unique. A friendly, first class service is provided from conception through to installation with careful attention paid to the chosen location. Individual designs are tailor-made to match the clients’ tastes and the client can have as much or as little input in the design process as they wish. Guidance is offered throughout the whole process.

Traditional leading techniques are generally used for window and door panels, with the copper foil (or Tiffany) method used for fine detail and three dimensional work. Additional features such as sandblasting or inclusions of lenses, bevels and rondels add depth and texture.

There are many different types of coloured or textured glass to choose from, ranging in colour from light pastels to rich deep hues, and offering varying degrees of opacity. Textures range from almost none to deep ripples and swirls. It is the combined use of colour and texture that turns a two dimensional design into an ever changing play of light and shade.

If you would like to commission a three dimensional object, hanging panel, sculpture or wall art, please contact the studio to discuss your requirements.

For internal or external window or door panels the process is generally as follows:

Site Visit

The commissioning process begins with a visit to the site (a charge may be made depending on distance). This gives the opportunity to discuss expectations and any design ideas you may have and to take careful measurements of the frame. The position of the panel and the ambient light will be assessed as well as the architecture and exterior environment. These factors will to some extent influence the design. An idea of timescale and approximate costs can be given at this point.

Design

Once ideas about style, colours and themes have been discussed, a scaled design is produced and can be altered until you are completely satisfied. These sketches are coloured to give an impression of what the final panel will look like.

Pricing

The cost of the window or door panel is calculated on the basis of its size, and the price range quoted will take account of the complexity of the design and the types and colours of glass used in its construction.
Following any amendments to design or choice of glass, a firm quote is always given and approved before work starts. The cost is fully inclusive of all design, manufacture and installation (depending on location).

Construction

After the final design and price have been approved, a full scale drawing (known as a cartoon) is produced and work begins on constructing the panel. Have a look at creating a leaded panel to see the processes involved.

Installation

Once the panel is finished, an installation date is agreed. The greatest care is taken of your property during the installation. Where possible, the original beadings are reused, but years of condensation often mean that they are fragile and need replacing. As close a match as possible is always used. The new panel is puttied in place and where necessary saddle (tie) bars are installed. The beadings are replaced and the installation is complete.

If you are interested in commissioning a piece of stained glass, please telephone to discuss your requirements. No job is too big or too small. The same care, attention to detail and quality is applied to all work.