Stained Glass Construction - Leaded Vs Foiled

There are two ways to make stained glass, leaded or copper foiled. The major difference between the two is in the construction. With leaded, the glass is fitted into channels of lead came. In contrast, copper foiled, is constructed by wrapping each piece of glass with copper foil.

Leaded stained glass historically is found in churches. It was during the Victoria Era where leaded  glass was introduced into homes and has remained a popular method of constructing stained glass ever since.

Foiled glass was mastered by Tiffany in the early 1900's and soon after became a popular method for creating stained glass.

Common Questions:

Is one method better than the other?

The simple answer is no. A better answer is that it depends on the artist and the design.

What is the difference in leaded and foiled construction?

With leaded glass, the construction must begin at an outer corner, the individual pieces are fitted into lead came. Once all pieces are cut and placed in lead came, the joints of came are soldered. Then the piece is cemented.

With foiled glass, the construction can begin at any point in the design and worked out from there. The individual pieces are wrapped in copper foil and soldered together.

When is foiled stained glass construction better than lead?

With intricate designs, foiled construction is superior

When is lead construction better than foiled?

Leaded construction is used most often with designs that have repetitive geometric shapes. These designs can be foiled, but construction time is increased.

Which is easier?

There is no simple answer for this. It is really a personal preference. Leaded, foiled or combination of the two are used throughout the stained glass industry.

Is leaded or foiled construction better than the other?

No, each method, if done correctly, will provide the same long lasting beauty and endurance.

Why is foiled construction taught to beginners doing stained glass?

The cementing in leaded construction tends to be messy. Foiled construction can be started and stopped, making weekly classes work.

What are the steps for making leaded glass?

Glass is cut, shaped and fitted into channels of lead came.
Joints of lead came are soldered.
The piece is cemented
The piece is cleaned and polished

What are the steps for making foiled glass?

Glass is cut and shaped, and then each piece is wrapped in copper foil.
Copper foil seams are soldered together.
The piece is cleaned and polished.

My Personal Choice:

I tend to do a lot of intricate designs, so I use the foiled construction method. It provides the flexibility and detail I need for my designs.

Author: Maureen Summy
Creativity-in-Glass http://www.creativity-in-glass.com

If you would like more detailed information for making stained glass using the foiled method, check out http://www.creativity-in-glass.com/how-to-make-stained-glass.html

I started out as a stained glass admirer. After a class in stained glass, I became addicted. At first I made stained glass to decorate my homes, which lead to friends asking me to make stained glass for them. Now I am a full time professional making stained glass as well as instructing others on how to make stained glass. My studio is located outside of Chicago, Illinois.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Promotional Glasses - Advertising in Your Hand

From bars to fast food restaurants, promotional glasses are everywhere you look. They advertise everything from the name of the establishment to cartoon characters. Glasses are a staple item that can appeal to everyone. Printed glasses can either be a useful promotional item, as in they can be used for the purpose they were made or if you wish they can simply be put on display to show off your company name and logo to its best advantage.

But why is it that people are drawn into purchasing promotional glasses? Let's take a look at the reasons.

1. Promotional glasses are collector's items - a lot of people collect them in hopes that one day they may become valuable.

2. Promotional glasses are good souvenirs - they are an item that people buy so that they can remember places that they have eaten when they are on vacation.

3. Promotional glasses are a fun collectable for kids. Usually the cartoon glasses that are offered by fast food restaurants are plastic and kid safe.

Although promotional glasses are usually thought of as something that is sold, that isn't always the case. Although a lot of branded glasses are sold, there are a few other reasons that companies and organisations order promotional glasses

1. Promotional glasses are a great way to commemorate a milestone in a company or organisation's history,

2. Promotional glasses are a way to give clients or employees something a bit more special in thanks for their dedication and loyalty.

3. Promotional glasses are a nice favour for a company event, such as a banquet or a holiday dinner.

One of the great things about promotional glasses is the fact that they are very versatile. There are many types of glasses that you can choose from and you are certain to be able to find something that will fit your needs. Some of the more common types of glasses that companies choose from are:

Wine glasses

Shot glasses

Glass coffee mugs

Another thing that people find when they are ordering printed glasses is that they can put a lot of information on their promotional glasses. There are quite a number of items that can be printed on glasses that a company orders and that the possibilities are endless. But some of the more common items that are put onto glasses are:

Company or organisation name

Date of event

How many years the person/company/organisation is celebrating

Person's name, if applicable

It's easy to see why so many companies and organisations turn to branded glasses when they are looking for a promotional item. Few other promotional items offer such a wide range of options, choices when it comes to whether the branded glasses are elegant or more casual, and how much to spend on each one.

They afford the ability to put as much or as little information on the printed glass you choose as you wish and they are something that you know people are going to enjoy. Whether they are a branded glass to be used or to be displayed, the promotional glass that is chosen is something that will be noticed.

Matt Franks is director of Fluid Branding, the UK's leading online supplier of Promotional Glasses and Branded Glasses. You can also find a wide range of Eco Friendly promotional products, including Recycled, Organic and Sustainable items at Eco Incentives.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Vintage Fenton Carnival Glass

Carnival Glass has become a popular collectors item in recent years. Contemporary pieces are readily available at cheap prices. However, the vintage Carnival Glass is really what is popular with collectors. To give you some additional information on this American art form, I will discuss the history, manufacture, and values of this beautiful glassware.

Carnival Glass History

Early in the 20th century, Tiffany & Co. and the Steuben Glass Co. produced a hand-blown iridized glass that was very popular with their wealthy clientele. These items, were hand made and commanded extremely high prices. In 1907, the Fenton Art Glass Company began mass-production of a high-quality and low-cost iridized glass, similar to the items crafted by Tiffany and Steuben. The Fenton iridized glass which was available in numerous colors, including a unique red. Fenton was not the only manufacturer of iridized glass, but it was the largest producing the colorful glass in over 150 patterns.

With entry into Great Depression, iridized glass lost its popularity. The inventory of this glassware was subsequently deeply discounted and commonly given away in supermarket and cereal promotions. In addition, the glassware was given away in carnival games, hence, the subsequent name Carnival Glass.

Popularity of iridized glass resurged in the 1950s with dealers and collectors and it was during this period that this glassware gained the name Carnival Glass. Today, the glass is still manufactured by Fenton, and several other companies.

Other Carnival Glass Manufacturers

Fenton, Northwood, Imperial Glass, Westmoreland and Dugan are just a few companies that manufactured carnival glass. Some of these manufacturers stamped their pieces with a distinctive mark. However, most other manufacturers did not mark their goods leaving some vintage pieces impossible to authenticate. Today, because of competition, and high labor costs, few of these manufacturers still remain.

Carnival Glass Values

The vintage Carnival Glass manufactured early in the 20th century is, by far, the most valuable, and sought after pieces. Color and condition play a large role in determining value. Chips, cracks, manufacturing defects and repairs reduce the value. If an item is a rare color like aqua it is of more value than an item in marigold that is common. The Red Carnival Glass manufactured by Fenton is very rare, and popular with collectors. Punch bowl sets, because they consist of multiple items, command high prices if complete with all pieces.

Contemporary Carnival Glass can be acquired at very reasonable prices. Many of these contemporary pieces are reproductions of their vintage counterparts. Because of the low cost, contemporary pieces are more suitable for the wear and tear of everyday use. Traditionally, venues such as antique shops and flea markets have been the primary source for vintage Carnival Glass. Today, take a look at eBay for thousands of listings of both vintage and carnival glass at great prices. Remember, one persons trash is another persons treasure.

It is so ironic that at one point in time Fenton Carnival Glass was so common, it could hardly be given away. Today, some vintage pieces sell for thousands of dollars.

Ross Bassette is an experienced eBay merchant and collector of vintage Carnival Glass. If you enjoyed reading this article, please feel free to visit our website and find some great deals on Fenton Carnival Glass.
Vintage Fenton Carnival Glass

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Glass Block Windows - 5 Steps For Installation Success

Like many product categories the installation options for glass block windows have grown proportionately to the expanding design options. Years ago, blocks were made in a 8" x 8" x 4" size in a few patterns and put together inside a masonry window opening (usually by a skilled mason) block by block with a gray mortar and masons sand - not real sexy, but it worked. In today's world people want to use blocks more creatively in different types of openings (could be masonry, framed, steel openings etc.) for a wide variety of uses, and not have to rely strictly on a mason to get the job done. The following 5 installation steps can help you think through what's needed to have your block window installation project go smoothly.

o Step 1 - Ask, "What size is my window opening?"- The size of the opening is a large factor in the window installation approach. There are two basic ways to install a glass block window:

* (Option 1) As a window panel alone, or as a panel built into a vinyl or metal framed window system.

* (Option 2) installing the glass blocks one by one inside of the opening.

A benefit of glass block is it's a heavy material, the challenge is it's a heavy material when you're installing it! For most openings less than 25 square feet consider option 1, the block window built as panel (or section) vs. option 2. Option 2 is usually more difficult, costly, and requires a higher skill level. For the first option you can get a block window panel built by a glass block window manufacturer, often saving time and money.

o Step 2 - Ask, "Where is this block window going?" A key factor in the block window installation is if the glass window is going in new construction or a remodeling project, and whether the surrounding construction is masonry (poured concrete or concrete blocks) or frame (surrounded by wood). Here are some recommendations for each job condition:

* New construction projects in framed openings - For new construction framed openings use a vinyl framed nail in glass block window. Consult your glass window manufacturer for the size to create your rough framed opening. These windows (which are usually siliconed together for an all glass look) can be purchased with nailing fins to simply nail in from the outside just like a traditional vinyl window in new construction. Since they can be manufactured with the 2" thick series of blocks (in either a high privacy "Ice" pattern or "Wave" pattern from Mulia Inc.) they are lighter than traditional block windows. These windows can also be purchased for the 3" and 4" thick series of blocks as well if you'd like to try one of the upscale designed Beveled or Spyra series of blocks from Pittsburgh Corning.

* New construction projects in masonry openings - For most masonry openings under 25 square feet it is best to purchase mortared or siliconed block panels that can be set into the opening and mortared in at the top (also called the head), sides (also called the jambs), and bottom (also called the sill).

* Remodeling projects in framed openings -

- (Option A) If you can adjust your openings to fit one of the vinyl framed glass block windows you can install your project like a standard vinyl replacement window (make sure the window manufacturer takes the window nailing fins off for this type of installation) by placing the vinyl window in the opening, insulating around the window, and installing aluminum coil stock capping to meet the glass block window.

- (Option B) If you can't adjust your existing wood opening then remove the existing window sashes and mortar the glass block into the wood opening and install aluminum coil stock to the block and caulk where the coil stock meets the glass masonry units.

* Remodeling projects in masonry openings (concrete blocks or poured walls) - In remodeling projects measure the entire size of the masonry openings with the existing frame being removed (the only time you don't remove the metal or wood frames is when the frame is either seated over the concrete blocks or poured walls and removing them might cause damage to the surrounding interior or exterior walls). Then size your block window panels to be smaller than the masonry openings (these block windows can be sized basically in any 2" size increment). The window panels can then be mortared into the openings.

o Step 3 - Ask, "What should I use to put the glass block together into a window panel assembly?" - You might have heard varied opinions about how the block panel should be assembled (the most common methods are using mortar or silicone). While some companies may tell you that only one method is correct, they are often just trying to get people to buy the fabrication method they prefer. You should choose that method where the panel size is going to fit best into the opening (making sure the joints do not exceed 1" around the window). Included below you'll find some advantages of both the mortar and silicone systems:

- Advantages of Mortar over Silicone - Mortar is the traditional way to build a block window. The advantages of this system are the ability to vary the size of the mortar joint (helpful when you have an odd size), the mortar joints can be finished to match the existing masonry, and it's very difficult to break a block out of mortared joint.

- Advantages of Silicone - Silicone is preferred if you like an all glass look to your panel, or if you need a smaller window in an opening (silicone joints are smaller than mortar joints), and transportation is safer because the glass window will stay together better than with mortar.

o Step 4 -Ask, "How do I handle an opening greater than 25 square feet?" - When openings become larger than 25 square feet (mostly in commercial, architectural and institutional projects) it is often better to build the window block by block within the opening (this is because the panels would need to become larger, heavier, and are more difficult to handle). With openings of this size you will need to keep the following installation points in mind:

* The window usually requires a "soft joint" at the top (head), and sides (jambs) of the opening - Windows greater than 25 square feet need more space for expansion and contraction requiring glass block caulk be used at the jambs and head of the opening along with an expansion strip. For larger openings an aluminum channel will also help with concerns regarding wind loads.

* Structural steel or aluminum may be required - To allow for wind loads and structural safety larger openings (greater than 20 feet high for 4" blocks and 10 feet high for 3" blocks, and 25 feet wide for 4" blocks and 15 feet wide for 3" blocks) there should be a metal stiffener put into the glass block window. This stiffener could be a metal hidden plate, an I beam, or a T shaped mullion of steel behind the window/wall.

o Step 5 - Ask, "What should I do if my skills or physical abilities don't allow me to do this type of installation?" - Call a specialty glass block contractor or find a nationwide glass block window manufacturer (to make a pre-made glass panel) to make contract out the installation of this window. This will ease the process, reduce cost, and improve the quality of the block window installation project.

Now that you've got the 5 installation steps you're ready to either to get your hands dirty or hire the right specialty glass block contractor for your project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888

mfotigb@aol.com

glass block windows

how to install glass block windows

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

The Beauty of Antique Glass

Antique glass includes so many different decorations, sizes, forms and shapes. Having any type of antique glass in your home can add to the beauty and character or theme that you would like to create. No matter what the size of your room or home is, there is always room for a piece of antique glass. Let us explore the shapes, sizes and forms that antique glass can take.

First of all, antique glass is not always clear. As a matter of fact, antique glass tends to be colored. This is not always the case, but stained glass is a classic antique feature that is found in churches, on antique lamp shades, and even on chandeliers. Clear glass allows light to shine through, which offers a beautiful rainbow that can reflect on a wall, mirror, or floor. Colored glass can sparkle when light shines upon it, giving is an elegance and a glow.

Antique glass comes in many shapes as well as colors. Glass chandeliers, vases, dishes, glass baskets, and bowls are among the different forms that antique glass can take. You might find clear glass antiques in these varieties, or some that are colored glass in yellow, green, blue, purple, and virtually any other color. You might even see what is called "milk glass" which is like a white porcelain antique glass. Milk glass is often painted with flowers or other designs to give the antique piece distinction and character.

There are many other types of antique glass besides milk glass. There is art glass, opalescent glass, pressed glass, historical glass, elegant glass, depression glass, carnival glass and Victorian glass. Flint glass, and early American Pattern glass are popular. Each style has a different texture, thickness, color, design and uniqueness to it.

With so many forms, styles, shapes and colors to choose from, it may be difficult to choose which kinds of antique glass you will want to add to your home. You might even decide to begin a collection of antique glass pieces. Regardless of the type of antique glass you choose for your home, keep in mind how delicate it is. Make sure that you keep it in a safe place that is out of the reach of children, and away from places that it might b knocked over during the busyness of life. Always keep it free from dust and stains so that it can shine and glow.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for pottery, antiques, and figurines. When shopping for pottery, antiques and figurines, we recommend these online stores for pottery and antique glass

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Glass Console Tables - Functional, Eye-Catching Furnishings For Your Home

Glass is very popular today in the use of home furnishings such as tabletops, coffee tables, dining room tables and glass console tables. Glass has many different uses in the home with regard to home furniture. Wood furniture often has glass on top of it as a protective measure from getting scratched or nicked. Many use glass on top of dining room tables for the same reason as well as for the beauty it gives. A lot of patio furniture is also covered with glass. The glass that's used for these purposes is made a special way that involves heating to a certain temperature followed by a correct cooling period. This method, called tempered glass, makes the glass strong, durable and almost unbreakable. Many people, unaware of this special process, are still skeptical about owning glass console tables or other glass furnishings due to the possibility of breakage.

The glass on your glass console tables come in a variety of shapes, size and thickness. When you purchase these, you can choose the one that suits your needs and the needs of your family. You won't want to get a glass top that's too thick because it will also be very heavy for handling. Usually, the thickness of the glass should coincide with the overall size of the glass. The larger the glass is in terms of length and width, the thicker it should be.

Glass tops are often used for protective covers on wooden furniture or patio furniture. When you're using it for this purpose, such as glass console tables, the glass doesn't need to be very thick because it's not supporting a lot of weight. However, the glass should always have beveled or finished edges. Not only will this give your furniture a nice appearance but also they'll be no worry about sharp edges. Always make sure that the glass is held securely on the tabletop. Many homes that have young children choose glass console tables with rounded corners.

If you plan to put cold or hot foods on your glass tabletops, make sure you get tempered glass that will withstand the variances in temperatures.

You won't be sorry you chose glass console tables or any glass tabletops, as your wood is being protected from scratches and the glass adds a touch of elegance to the room. It will also add value to the overall appearance of the room. When you see a room filled with glass, you usually think "rich". Your guests will now feel this way when they enter your room.

Glass console tables make great additions to your living room, dining room or any room in your house. Even if you have small children, this is the perfect choice for functionality, style and beauty. You'll have no problems finding the style you want for the price you want, as these are very popular. They are carried in most furniture stores or if you don't want to travel to shop, you will be able to find a massive variety in online stores.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous indoor area by using an alluring console table, practical writing desk, and classic sofa tables.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Depression Glass - Tips For Newbie Collectors

For the newbie collector, the huge variety of colors and patterns of depression glass may be a bit overwhelming! Time and experience, and a good depression glass encyclopedia, will help the novice learn how to choose pieces for their collection, and how to tell an authentic piece of depression glass from a reproduction. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you get started on the right path!

Many collectors have the goal of collecting a particular pattern or color, although some just enjoy the variety and will pick up whatever they find attractive and within their budget. A full setting of a single color and pattern can be striking, but a mixture of patterns and colors has its own esthetic beauty. The choice is really up to the collector.

You may have decided to fill out the set of depression glass that Grandma left you, or set your sights on a particular style. The first thing you need to be aware of is that certain patterns and colors of this vintage glass were made in limited amounts and you may not be able to find enough pieces to create a place setting, let alone enough to set the table with. Before you start investing good money in a lost cause, do some research. There are many excellent collectors' web sites and reference books that can give you information on the availability of the pattern or color you are searching for.

Know the value of the pieces that you are seeking. As with all collectibles, some pieces may be rather pricey, while some may be picked up for a song. It can be frustrating to find out that you simply can't afford to finish a collection you have started.

Depression glass manufacturers were concerned about quantity, not quality, and the newbie may notice flaws in the glass and think it is an inferior piece. Depression glass is poorly made and flaws are to be expected. They don't necessarily detract from the value of the piece. It was mass produced and often given away at movie theaters, gas stations, and other businesses as a premium to attract customers. It could be found inside a box of laundry detergent or cereal flakes. Depression glass could be purchased inexpensively at grocery stores, hardware stores, and the local five-and-dime. The attraction of depression glass was that it was available in so many beautiful colors, which brightened up the drab homes of the era.

You may find that a piece of depression glass is out of shape, or wobbles, or leans to one side, or there may be color variations within the same pattern. Welcome to the world of depression glass!

Depression glass was not hand-finished, unlike higher quality glassware which had imperfections removed after it was released from the mold. The surface may have a "straw mark" as a result of the manufacturing process. A straw mark looks like a crack, but it is not, and will not get larger. A crack will catch the light and may look silver or gray, while a straw mark will only show up if the piece is tilted a certain way in the light. There may be a bump of extra glass, especially along the mold line. Mold lines may be prominent. Chips are undesirable, but it's possible that a spot that appears chipped may only be an imperfection where the mold was poorly filled (known to collectors as a "flea bite"). Small air bubbles in the glass are common. Minor flaws are normal occurrences and won't affect the value.

Glass that is cloudy or has lime deposits is considered "sick" glass and cannot be cleaned. If you are browsing through depression glass at an early morning yard sale, don't mistake sick glass for that which is dew-covered. Condensation can mask the real condition of the glass.

Due to its increase in popularity with collectors, much depression glass has been reproduced. Many pieces have been reproduced in color and pattern combinations that were never originally made. "Fantasy" pieces exist in objects, often pitchers, which were never in the manufacturer's inventory. Carry a reputable depression glass reference guide with you on your excursions to aid you in your purchases.

Depression glass is easy to find. Yard sales, flea markets, and thrift shops are good places to start. Many people who have no interest in depression glass or its potential value to collectors may dispose of it this way, and it will be as cheap as you're going to find anywhere.

Antique stores, retail web sites and online auction sites sell depression glass at higher prices than you'll find by rummaging. Keep in mind that antique stores and retail web sites will often set prices somewhat higher than the actual value of the piece. They know that if a collector has been looking for that item for a long time, they will pay the price!

Online auction sellers may misrepresent collectible glass and describe an item as "vintage" or "antique" when it may only be a reproduction. They may not necessarily be trying to rip off customers, but may only be amateurs who are not knowledgeable about vintage glass. Be careful only to deal with reputable sellers who have good feedback ratings.

If you are collecting for sentimental or esthetic reasons, the value of a piece may not be of particular importance. Buying glass as an investment, or with the intent to resell, is a different matter. Enjoy collecting depression glass, but start slowly to avoid making mistakes and getting stuck with reproductions that have little value.

More articles by this author

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.