Stained Glass Resources: Books!

Not everyone has access to hands-on stained glass classes. Some folks learn better independently.  Whatever the reason, maybe you just prefer an in-home DIY approach.  If that sounds like you, I have a curated list of stained glass instruction books and pattern books you may want to look in to!

Stained Glass Instruction Books

This list has books for stained glass artists of all levels, including the beginner.  Most contain projects that build on skills and allow you to grow at your own pace.  Covering skills like scoring and shaping glass, foiling, soldering and even pattern selection and design at a pace that fits your schedule.

Shop the entire list on Bookshop.org

Tiffany Windows Stained Glass Pattern Book

by Connie Clough Eaton

Stained Glass Pattern Books

Tiffany style windows on your must do list?  Try Connie Clough Eatons' "Tiffany Windows Stained Glass Pattern Book" pictures to the right.  If you're more interested in learning to make lamp shades, check out "Easy Stained Glass Panel Lampshades" by Anna Croyle.  For contemporary decorative items, you'll enjoy Noor Springael's "Creative Stained Glass", which has over 15 giftable projects appropriate for beginning stained glass artists.  Any one of these is a great starting point for your glass art education!  I've also included books with garden, quilt, and alphabet designs along with more traditional options like Prairie, William Morris and Victorian style projects. 

Shop TCAG stained glass

Where to Find Stained Glass Books

Bookshop.org connects readers with independent booksellers. I'm am a Bookshop affiliate, so when you click these link, browse, then buy, I do earn a commission.  A portion of each sale is also shared with member booksellers, helping support independent books stores all over the globe.  

Or, shop local and buy from your local book store. If you're near a second hand bookstore, they are great places for vintage stained glass books. Real treasure can be found!

Not sure you want to commit to buying books just yet? No worries - stained glass books are often available thru your local library or other lending sources.  Learn about free, and legal, ways to borrow books (and more) here.

With 2 dozen recommendation, and more added as I have time, this list is a great jumping off point for you.  I hope you'll give stained glass a try!

Until next time,

Ailsa

Safely Storing Your Stained Glass Christmas Decor

Storing your beautiful Christmas ornaments it correct way is essential to prevent scuffs, scrapes, and breaks.  With just a few easy steps, you can keep your stained glass Christmas collection in holiday ready shape for decades. Read on!

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Best Practices for Storing stained glass:

• First, wrap your ornaments in clean white tissue paper. In fact, use a few layers.  You want to be certain your stained glass pieces are well protected.  Add a piece of tape to secure this layer.

• Add protective padding like honeycomb paper, packing paper, or bubble wrap.  Be generous here. The goal is to have a nice layer of padding.  For honeycomb and packing paper, you may need several layers.  More is better. Tape the ends of the wrapping together to prevent the stained glass from slipping out of the ends.   

• Add extra protection to the "voids" - those holds, gaps, and bits that float on your pieces

• Place pieces in sturdy boxes and label. If you ordered from TCAG, the box your keepsakes shipped in is perfect. Save it and the packing materials.  

• Store in a clean, dry, temperature-stable location like a closet or under-bed bin.

What to Avoid:

• Plastic wrap or plastic bags can leave marks on the came or trap moisture. 

• Don’t store in a basement, attic, or garage unless it's climate-controlled

• Don’t stack heavy objects on top

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Wrap-up (See what I did there?)

• Take a little extra time to store your beautiful stained glass ornaments and decoration the right way. You won't regret it.

• If you have a great storage tip, let me know! I'm always ready to learn more!

Until next time,

Ailsa

PS - Make sure you read up on cleaning your stained glass before you store it!

How to Display Your Stained Glass Christmas Ornaments

Winter Charm with Stained Glass Suncatchers

Stained glass suncatchers bring warmth and color to even the coldest winter days. Handcrafted glass art pieces make beautiful additions to your holiday decor, from front doors to Christmas trees, and they’re just as striking in the glow of twinkle lights as in sunlight. Here are a few creative ways to feature stained glass in your winter decorating and gift giving.

Front Doors, Entryways, and Thresholds

Highlight your entryway with a stained glass accent. Try wiring a small suncatcher into the center of your holiday wreath using floral wire or a matching ribbon so it hangs freely.

Hang a stained glass mistletoe ornament above the doorway for a cheerful touch. Just be sure to secure it on the side opposite the door swing to keep it safe.

Living Room Christmas Decor

Mini stained glass suncatchers and ornaments look beautiful nestled among the lights on your Christmas tree. Choose handcrafted designs like a Christmas Pickle or Christmas Mouse for a fun new family tradition.

Add personalized stained glass stocking tags to your mantle or stocking stand.  It's a simple way to add color and individuality to your holiday display.

For cozy Christmas touches, tie a small stained glass ornament around a mason jar candle with ribbon. The candlelight reflecting through the glass adds a soft, rustic glow.

Finish the look by tucking stained glass doves among your poinsettias or adding a glass plant stake to your amaryllis — especially if it’s one of those top-heavy ones that can’t quite stay upright.

Gifts and gift tags

Attach a mini hexagon charm to a wrapped present as a one-of-a-kind gift tag that doubles as a heirloom keepsake.

Stained glass gifts are perfect for anyone on your list.  From Secret Santa exchanges to family members who seem to have everything,  handcrafted pieces from Thomas Critchlow Art Glass make thoughtful, lasting gifts and unique holiday decorations.

Until next time,

Ailsa

PS - Are you an employer who needs several for your employees or teammates? Reach out for bulk ordering