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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
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.
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