2026: The Year So Far and looking forward

Well, the first half of 2026 is a wrap and it's been a year of big changes at TCAG.

My plans for 2026 were to grow my email list and event schedule.  Those took a backseat when I learned goimagine was closing shop.  I shifted to building an ecommerce site and let the emails slide. Since I was already committed to several local art and craft vendor events, I stuck with it. But, man, I sure felt pulled in a lot of directions for a while!

I've added a few fun new designs to the line up. Fan faves have been the Mystery Misfits.  Look for seasonal versions of each as we move in to fall and winter. 

If you're already a subscriber, you know the new site is up and running. With items added as I can, it's a growing collection of my current items for sale.  I have created some smaller mini-suncatchers, which I think of as charm sized. Most measure around 2 inches by 2 inches and make great little gifts for moms, dad, friends, and grads.  Gift boxed options are available on most.

This spring, we attended Zionsville, IN's Brick Street Market for the second time. We added the Hoosier Hometown Markets and Spooner Market, both impressed us and we hope to add them to our schedule in the future. And, we returned to historic Franklin, IN for the Ethos Celebration of the Arts.  

For the second half of 2026, I have added several new events this year while keeping my previous events on the books.  From local fundraisers to huge art fairs, I'm still scheduling event for September thru December.  You'll find a running schedule at the top of this page.  

And, lastly, the Fall and Winter collections will drop soon.  With traditional black and orange, pretty pastel, and spooky gothic color palettes for Fall, you are sure to find something you'll love.  Stained Glass Christmas will be back in classic green and red, whimsical iridescent pastels, and playful personalized pet ornaments.  Join the TCAG Insiders for early access to these limited edition suncatchers and gifts.

Until next time,

Ailsa

Mystery Misfits - Whimsical, Silly Trinkets

 

I'm always looking for ways to use small pieces of glass that can't be used in my suncatchers, stained glass panels, or fused glass projects.   I've shared a few ideas before, but I am excited to add a new gift option to my store!  These little critters are a perfect pick-me up or thank you gift for your friends and co-workers.  Need a quick gift for a teacher or nurse?  Grab a Misfit!

Mystery Misfit packages

What are Mystery Misfits?  They're silly, whimsical, and goofy little stained glass characters with wiggly eyes, tiny arms and legs, and corkscrew curls. Is it hair or antennae? You decide!  Each is unique and a true mystery.  Carefully wrapped in tissue paper and tucked in to a colorful pillow box, along with a cute info card, sealed with a contrasting band and a fun label, these are gift ready.  Send one with your new grad as a funny reminder of home.

A gaggle of Misfits

Mystery Misfits have been a huge hit at our in person event this season. We've sold out twice... in just 2 shows.  I've added them to my (brand new) website where you can snag a few for yourself.  I'll have seasonal options for Fall and Halloween with those orange, plum and amber colors we love so much.  And, of course, I'll be adding a Christmas themed version made of iridescent glass.  They are just adorable.

Yellow Mystery Misfit 

And, every Misfit has an info card tucked inside the package with w wonky name, series number, and a personality "warning".  Is it a little bit silly? Of course, but we all need a little giggle in our days. 

Hop on over to the new website and check out the Mystery Misfits, and maybe get a jump on your holiday shopping.

Until next time,

Ailsa

Adapting Stained Glass Projects

I started teaching stained glass monthly in at senior living community. They had been without a stained glass class for a while now and the resident artist were excited to get back to stained glass projects.  Teaching the class is more about creativity, not final product. Building connections, not portfolios.  

During our first class, we made simple leaf suncatchers.  Any shape, size, color - no right or wrong way. I gave a few samples and they ran with it.  It was a fun way to get to know each other and for me to quietly assess skill levels.  I wish I had pictures to show you because they were so amazing!  During class, we talked about future projects.  Things they would like to do, and things they have zero interest in doing.  

Eventually, we settled on gnomes.  

Assessing Experience and Skill 

Artists with prior experience requested projects that are more difficult.  Those with very little experience, or coming back to stained glass studio work after several years absence, felt more comfortable working on the basics before trying harder projects.  Entirely reasonable, honestly. 

Considering Ability

Arthritis, tremor, decreased hand strength, and changes in vision impact artists and makers.  I have arthritis in my thumbs, and that makes grinding challenge somedays.  My middle aged eyes struggle with near vison.  Grinding pucks, readers, lighted magnifying glasses, and thicker grips on tools all help.  

Thankfully, these (and other) tools are already in the studio.  It's a really well thought out space.

Reducing Barriers

My challenge was to design a pattern that everyone complete in our 60-90 minute class. I started with a gnome pattern I've used in the past and made a few adjustments:

• Increased overall size
• Pieces that were easier to trace, cut, and grind
• Simplified lines to reduce breakage
• Optional pieces for flexibility
• Three nose styles to choose from
• Finish as a suncatcher or plant stake

It was important to have a project everyone could be proud without sacrificing quality. Adaption doesn't make the project is any less beautiful!  These tweaks let each artist explore creating a finished project that reflects their own style.

Encouraging Creativity

Using pattern adaptations and optional pieces, each artist made a finished stained glass project to take home that day.  While some experimented with bold color combinations, others focused on learning new techniques or strengthening existing skills. A few simple pattern changes gave students the confidence to express their own style. 

Reflecting on Lessons Learned 

Art is for everyone. By increasing piece size, simplifying lines, and offering flexible options, every artist felt capable of creating something really beautiful. The sense of accomplishment I witnessed far outweighed any technical challenges. It's art for the sake of art. The pure joy of knowing "I made that and had a great time doing it".

Try It Yourself 

Adapting projects doesn’t require complicated tools or expensive materials. Even small tweaks like resizing pieces, offering design options open up creative possibilities for artists.

If you’re inspired to try similar adaptations in your own work or want more see more stained glass projects, subscribe to my newsletter for behind-the-scenes stories, tips, and project inspiration.

 Until next time,

Ailsa