Stained Glass Christmas

Every year, I add a few new designs to the Christmas Collection.  

I started with Classic Christmas Trees, Christmas Pickles, and Round Christmas Ornaments.  Over the years, I've added Holly, Mistletoe, & Angels.  

Classic Christmas Tree ornaments 

Some designs become part of the studio's history. The Old-fashioned Christmas Lights, created from vintage glass from my Grandpa Thomas's collection, were released as a limited edition and have been retired.

Christmas Pickles are back for another year

Now,  it's time to welcome the newest additions to the 2026 Christmas Collection.

Whimsical Christmas Trees

Available in Snowy White, Plum Purple, and Crisp Green, they're equally at home hanging in a sunny window, decorating your Christmas tree, or standing on a shelf with an LED candle glowing behind them. 

Iridescent Trees - New this year

They also make thoughtful host gifts and neighbor gifts. 

They are beautiful hanging in a sunny window, on your tree or on a shelf (try sitting an LED candle behind it!). Makes a thoughtful host gift or gifts for neighbor. 

Snowflake Charms

Iridescent glass makes another appearance in these miniature hexagon ornaments. Each one is laser engraved with a delicate snowflake before being finished in lead came and tied with ribbon.

Snowflake charms are wonderful tiny gifts

Fun fact: even our ribbons are made in the USA.

Measuring just over an inch, they're perfect for decorating a tree, hanging from a rearview mirror, or tucking into a gift. They make wonderful office gift exchange presents, Secret Santa surprises, and thoughtful little gifts for friends and grandparents.

Mystery Misfits

Mystery Misfits are back for Christmas! With seasonal colors, and holiday wrapping, these are fun stocking stuffers and Secret Santa Gifts.  Just remember, stained glass is not a toy!  

Christmas Mystery Misfits

Christmas is just getting started in the studio. Over the next few weeks, I'll be busy making stockings, pickles and more! If you want to see them before the rest of the world,  join the TCAG Insiders and get early peeks and special treats.

Until next time,

Ailsa

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

Stained Glass Heart Suncatcher

Small Gifts Full of Love

Sometimes, you need a little gift.  A small thank you.  A long distance hug.  A congratulation, I believe in you, you're the best kinda gift.  Maybe it's a birthday or a teacher appreciation gift.  

These small stained glass hearts are tiny, portable, and gift ready - just what you need.  

Handmade in the USA

Hand-made in my central Indiana studio, each pieces is made entirely by hand. I even shape the wire scrolls in the workshop.  Each has a unique color and texture. When the sunlight hits them, they really shine.

Gift Ready and Under $30

A gift box and message card makes these a wonderful option for those long-distance gifts that need a personal touch.  Celebrate a graduation with a school color inspired heart.  Great for milestones and inch stones. 

Say Happy Birthday with a birthstone inspired stained glass heart suncatcher. With 12 colors to choose from and several card style, you can create the perfect gift for your loved ones.  Personalized options available.

Until next time,

Ailsa

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

How I've Built My Glass Library

I have a lot of glass. In the beginning, it was easy to manage, mostly because it was all unmarked vintage glass from Grandpa Thomas. 

Trash to Treasure: Making Faux Sea Glass

Dogs at the beach!

Love sea glass? No beaches nearby?  No worries - we're going to walk through how to make cultured sea glass!

No plumbing? No big deal!

How do I work without plumbing in the studio?

I love my huge studio. Even with garden equipment, saws, drills, and other stuff, I still have plenty of space.  But, there are quite a few features it doesn't have like AC, central heating, and plumbing.  It's not a deal breaker, that's for sure.  I have created several work arounds

Fall, Halloween & Thanksgiving Decor – Stained Glass Decor

What’s your Halloween seasonal decor style? Classic orange and black? Whimsical pink and cream? Bold purple and green? There's always works in progress at my stained glass studio - suncatchers, plant stakes, ornaments...

Last year’s lavender Laughing Bat stained glass suncatcher and pastel Pink Pumpkins (perfect for Thanksgiving) were a hit—and they’re back for 2025! The pumpkins transition nicely from fall to Halloween to Thanksgiving. But, hey, leave them up year round if they bring you joy! I won't judge.

Secret Santa Gifts - Stained Glass Wish List

The Holiday Gift Exchange - what a dilemma. You need a gift, under $30 that will "fit" anyone.  But you also want to stand out as an awesome gift-giver!  What are you going to do?!? 

It's Back to School Time - Great Gifts for Teachers

Summer is coming to an end.  Teachers are headed back to the classroom to organize and decorate. Adults are checking out those classroom lists.  Children are being eased back in to a routine.  And, if you're on the hunt for a unique teacher gift and need a few teacher appreciation gift ideas- I've got you covered!

Great Wedding Gift Ideas: Why Stained Glass Makes a Memorable Gift

Finding a thoughtful wedding gift can be a challenge. You need something meaningful, beautiful, and let’s be honest, something they won’t get three of. (We’re looking at you, coasters and knife sets.)

Enter... Stained Glass!

Glass Facts You May Not Know

Did you know...

there are several types of glass?

glass is made from more than sand?

glass is made from secret recipes?

glass may contain gold?

you can see glass made?

Inside TCAG: Making of Seasons Drop

There’s a children’s book we read over and over when my kids were little—Wild Child by Lynn Plourde. We wore out one copy and bought another. While gorgeous colors and bold illustrations have lived rent-free in my mind for years, it wasn't the direct inspiration for the Seasons Drop series.

Repair Broken Staines Glass: A True Story of Blood, Sweat, and Tears

I love this piece.  The size, the shape, the colors - all of it.  I love it more than I thought I would.  It was especially heartbreaking when I broke it! 

How? It's hard to believe but I stepped on it!  I usually dry freshly cleaned stained glass on bathmats or thick towels. In the bathroom. On the floor. 

Pastel Fall Decor & Stained Glass Charm: A Softer Take on Autumn Style

Traditional fall color palettes and home décor leans bold with earthy tones—burnt orange, deep burgundy, golden everything. But if you lean toward a softer, dreamier vibe, pastel fall might be more your speed.  

From Glass to Gorgeous: Making the Hummingbird Suncatchers

Earlier this month at Brick Street Market, my hummingbird suncatchers flew off the table—literally sold out before noon. With another event just around the corner, I knew I needed to carve out some time to make a few more of these charming stained glass birds.