Glass by Carol

Are Stained Glass Windows Relevant For Churches Today?

2011-11-13T11:37:00.000-08:00

Does the use of stained glass in churches hold the same relevance it did in the middle ages? Does it change or enhance the worship atmosphere of the church?

In the Middle Ages stained glass was used to teach the congregation Bible stories, incorporate narratives, depict Saints, or episodes from the life of Christ.

In the twenty-first century we are relatively well read and truly don’t require pictures to understand religion. But do we think of stained glass pictures as an essential part of our church building? Are they the catalyst that actually makes a building a place of worship?

Many churches have used stained glass to achieve both a spiritual atmosphere and retain privacy. Some people feel a stronger sanctuary in their church when the light streams in through beautiful coloured glass and the rest of the world--traffic, tall buildings and all-are away from view, even for a short time.

Others will say that the church is in their hearts and minds and not in the building trappings at all.

Churches today face economic hardships which may influence whether its architecture is stark and modern, has many stained glass windows or just enough pane windows to provide light. An option for easing the cost of stained glass is the use of donated panels in memory of loved ones. This gesture helps to ease the financial burden and assists to further bond the congregation.

It not only provides tranquil, beautiful windows, but also serves as a reminder of cherished loved ones who have gone before us.

There are also more options for the creation and production of these beautiful works of art. In some cases, new or displaced churches rely on rented halls or small office units. Stained glass windows can be made not only to custom fit windows, but are removable at the same time. When the congregation moves to a permanent building, the windows go with them making them feel right at home again.

It is truly an individual preference if churches have stained glass windows. It would be fair to say that most people associate stained glass with churches. A great deal of artwork and photography depict stunning images of the buildings with either the light streaming in or out of the stained glass windows.

Some worshipers feel that when they are seated inside, the rich colors enrich the quiet, contemplative nature of the church, bringing the spiritual atmosphere alive. Stained glass windows go hand in hand with hymn books, organs and the pulpit to make the difference between an office building and a church.

Although it is true that stained glass doesn’t hold the same teaching relevance it was meant for 100 years ago, it strongly maintains a recognized value and sentimentality in modern society.

It’s still just as important that the light shines in!

How Much Will A Custom Stained Glass Window Cost?

2011-07-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

When you go to a stained glass artisan, don't expect to walk in and tell him/her you want a window put in your front door and then ask, "How much will it cost?" The artist will not give you a quote off the top of his/her head. There is a process to arriving at a price for a stained glass window.

When you know that you want a custom stained glass window, you should arrive at the stained glass studio with some facts and ideas before you ask a stained glass artisan for a price quote. The first thing you need to know is the exact measurement of the opening. The base price of a custom built stained glass piece begins with pricing based on square footage, and then per piece. Therefore, the more detailed the piece is, the more costly.

Each stained glass artisan has his/her own pricing scale. An example of just the basis of the quote would be a set rate per square foot plus an additional cost per piece in the pattern for a stained glass window constructed with lead came. A lower charge of the per square foot rate plus the per piece rate might be given for a stained glass window constructed with copper foil. But that's just the beginning.

If you don't know what design to settle on and you request full-size cartoons (patterns) to look at on your opening, the stained glass artisan might charge per cartoon to cover his/her extra time - especially if you decide not to have the stained glass window made.

The type of glass used in a stained glass window has bearing on the cost. For instance, red glass is more expensive than some other colors because gold is a metal used in making red glass. The brand Kokomo glass is generally more expensive than Spectrum glass. There is a variety of pricing among art glass.

Bevelled glass and bevel clusters (especially if they have to be custom made) are often far more expensive than stained glass. For an individual stained glass artisan to custom make bevel clusters, it requires a lengthy process. This would increase the quoted price for your custom stained glass window.

If you decide to have gems, glass globs or faceted jewels or rondels added to the design, these will increase the price of your custom stained glass window. Some gems are more expensive than others, and these add to the intricacy of the work to be done.

Other considerations in the overall cost of your stained glass window are installation and how it will be framed and whether or not the artisan will be responsible for framing and installation. The stained glass artisan may refer you to a framer or a carpenter if the artisan does not do the installation. Other costs include things like whether or not a storm window is included or if the stained glass piece will be sandwiched and weather-sealed between two pieces of glass.

It will help the stained glass artisan to know what type of glass to choose if you know whether or not you need glass that will provide total privacy. Is there anything that you would like to bring into the stained glass design like nature or flowers? Do you want colors or just clear textures? Do you like Prairie style or Art Nouvea?

When you have a design and the glass chosen and the finished size, your stained glass artisan will be able to give you a price on your beautiful custom stained glass window.

Beautify Your Garden With Stained Glass Art

2011-05-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

Stained glass has many applications. The beauty of your garden can be enhanced by capturing the beauty of the sun's natural light through stained glass art. Stained glass ornaments in your garden will capture the sun's natural light and the stained glass will sparkle as the light dances off its surface.

A stained glass stepping stone or garden stone path provides a wonderful mixture of color and design leading to the entry to your flower garden. Stained glass mosaic garden stone designs are fun to do and can be placed throughout your garden. You can make them yourself with regular concrete mix or special colored stone concrete. You can make your own molds or purchase molds from your retailers or wholesalers.

With Tiffany Garden Borders patterns you can build a 4-foot concrete and stained glass circular garden border around your flowerbed, tree, birdbath, backyard pond, sundial or herb garden.

If you aren't experienced at scoring, breaking and grinding stained glass, just break random scraps of stained glass and arrange them in a design, or in no particular design, in your concrete form.

You can buy easy-to-make stepping stone kits in craft stores or online. Stained glass shops and suppliers have hundreds of patterns and instructional books on stained glass garden stones and other stained glass garden ornaments.

Whimsical frogs, fish and turtle stained glass designs on concrete rain spout deflectors are more attractive than the ordinary plastic ones you see under everyone's gutter drains.

Picture beautiful stained glass and beveled or prism glass wind chimes flashing brilliant colors. The sound of the stained glass shapes bouncing off each other is pleasing when they are moved by a gentle breeze.

Iron garden stakes frame colorful stained glass designs which are interchangeable. You can change the design to fit any season or special occasion. The stained glass garden stakes can be placed by your front door or in the garden. Guests will enjoy the warm, welcoming feeling they get when they see the warm colorful stained glass garden stakes and stepping stones.

Another gardeners' favorite is stained glass wire stake designs for flowerpots and smaller garden beds. 3D creatures such as stained glass hummingbirds, butterflies, ladybugs, and dragonflies are favorite colorful additions to any patio flowerpot.

A popular stained glass garden project is a resting bench. This is a larger and heavier stained glass project but is worth the effort. The beautiful designs in the many available patterns for stained glass benches fit so well in a beautiful, colorful garden, or under a shade tree. Many have been used in cemeteries and church yards as a lovely, restful place to pause and reflect.

There are iron frames for patio tables to be done in stained glass mosaics. They can be purchased though stained glass suppliers, shops and online. There are many stained glass patterns and books available for the patio tables; or, as always, you can use your imagination and come up with your own stained glass mosaic table design.

What about a cozy looking stained glass fireplace screen in front of your patio fireplace, or stained glass patio lanterns or porch light fixtures?

You can make any stained glass garden decoration yourself or have a stained glass artisan design and make it for you. You can decorate garden walls or patio floors with stained glass mosaic designs. When it comes to decorating your garden, deck, or patio with stained glass, you are limited only by your own imagination.

Glass Art for Young Artists

2011-05-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

Stained glass is a beautiful art form that combines the use of various colors, shapes, textures and transparencies with light to illuminate, decorate and inspire the mind, spirit and eye of the beholder. Children have always been, and will always be, fascinated with shapes and colors which make the art form of stained glass perfect for them.

Unlike a coloring book page which is coloured once and then maybe taped to the refrigerator for a few days before finding its way to the garbage can, a stained glass creation can bring enjoyment and help boost a child's self-esteem for many years to come. There is nothing better than a beautiful constant reminder of the child's great "achievement".

In its early days, long before Christ was born; stained glass was made by mixing different metals with sand and soda and heating them at high temperatures so that the colors were actually a part of the glass. This type was thicker and the colors were rich and dark. Throughout the decades styles and tastes changed and new ways of using stained glass were needed. As people wanted to get more detail in their stained glass windows and also allow more light in, they began to use the technique of painting on the glass, rather than mixing the colors into while making it. This is one easy way to introduce a child to the art of stained glass. Kids can learn to paint on glass with Reusch paints, the same ones used for many years in traditional glass painting. Today you can purchase lead free paints. Once the glass is painted, it is fired permanently in a kiln.

Another easy and fun project for children is drawing designs on glass using ground glass, known as frit. Kids can be really creative with the many colour choices available in frit and the various grades of coarseness. Using a pattern below clear glass, they arrange the frit and adhere it with fusible glue. After adding another layer of clear glass on top, the whole design is melted together in the kiln to complete the project.

Children love to learn and using a fused glass or stained glass project provides the opportunity to teach them on a variety of topics such as art appreciation, the history of decorative glass, architecture, colours and design. Any project that allows a child to be creative, interact with others and develop their self-esteem is worthy of taking into consideration and glass crafting certainly meets those requirements. So why not encourage your budding young artist to pursue the wonderful techniques of making glass art? You might even want to join them. But be careful, glass work can be addictive.

Trickett Glass Wins International Award in Las Vegas

2011-04-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

By Mickey Reid

Carol Trickett, former London stained glass artist and owner of Trickett Glass in Thorndale, has won a prestigious award at the Glass Craft and Bead Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The international competition was held from March 31-April 3, 2011. Carol's stained glass piece, "Memories" won 2nd place in the Professional Stained Glass category.

"Memories" is a stunning creation depicting a black and white photograph of clasping hands amidst a beautiful background of falling leaves. The panel was made in honour of all those travelling the Alzheimer's journey and their caregivers.

Trickett Glass was launched in Thorndale on May 2005 when Carol’s long time job at Bell Canada suddenly dissolved. She decided to open her own stained glass business based on her success over many years in London when her art was just a “hobby.” Her business has since grown to include Heritage pieces and restoration and creation of church windows.

As an artist, Carol has continually evolved, learning new techniques and enthusiastically sharing her knowledge with others through classes offered at her studio. It was this desire to expand her expertise that lead to the creation of “Memories.”

This award winning stained glass piece was a project Carol created for an advanced traditional painting class. This class was offered through the London Stained Glass Guild, and taught by instructor Lynette Richards. Carol wanted to experience Glass Expo for many years, and having decided to attend, entered Memories in the Gallery Of Excellence contest.

“I didn’t think I would win,” she smiled, “So this award is a wonderful surprise!”

With her strong belief in continuous education, Carol took advantage of the opportunity to learn new techniques while at the Glass Expo. She took a series of classes offered by Peter McGrain in traditional stained glass painting and learned more about his own Vitri-Fusaille technique.

“Vitri-Fusaille” is a term created by Peter to describe the technique of stained glass with has been fused and painted. The artist creates a sketch of the design, fuses various color fields of glass together to make the background and then paints and fires the "lead lines" and the design using a series of tracings, shadings, paint application and removal techniques.

The result is a beautifully visual combination of paint and art.

The kind that wins International awards for aspiring stained glass artists like Carol Trickett.

William Morris

2011-02-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

March 24, 1834 – October 3, 1896

William Morris was an English artist of many passions. These passions included textile design, writing, socialism, and stained glass, among many others. He was part of the English Arts and Crafts Movement. Morris began attending Exeter College, Oxford, in 1852 where he met another undergraduate and eventually his life-long friend and collaborator Edward Burne-Jones.

Morris founded a design firm in 1861. One of his two partners in this firm was Edward Burne-Jones (the second partner was a poet and artist named Dante Gabriel Rossetti.) This firm influenced the designs in churches and homes into the early 20th century.

Although Morris was mainly a textile artist, his designs showed in churches and homes such as the “Red house” in Bexleyheath. This house was architecturally designed for him and included some of his designs such as ceiling paintings, walls hangings, and furniture paintings. This house also included wall paintings and stained – and painted glass by Burne-Jones.

In 1861, Morris was also a partner in founding the Morris, Marshall, Faulkner, & Co. firm. Other artists involved in the partnership were Rossetti, Burne-Jones, Ford Madox Brown and Philip Webb, also Charles Faulkner and Peter Paul Marshall. The main arts that the firm would undertake were metal work, carving, paper hangings, chintzes, carpets, and stained glass. The decoration of churches had always been a must by the firm.

Some of Morris’ stained glass included works done by Morris & Co. For example, “David’s Charge to Solomon” (1882), a stained glass window designed by Morris and Burne-Jones, in Trinity Church Boston, Massachusetts. They were also involved in the “Nativity” windows (1882), designed by Burne-Jones and executed by Morris & Co. in the Trinity Church Boston. And finally, there was also the “Worship of the Shepherds” window (1882) in Trinity Church Boston, also designed by Burne-Jones and executed by Morris & Co.

William Morris was a man of many great artistic talents. His firm Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. began the new era in Western art. He has become an artist who has set the stage for many different art forms.

Edward Burne-Jones

2011-02-22T13:33:00.000-08:00

(August 28, 1833 – June 17, 1898)

Edward Burne-Jones was a British designer. He also had talents in painting, designing ceramic tiles, jewelry, tapestries, mosaics, book illustration, and stained glass.

He was involved in the rejuvenation of the tradition of stained glass art in England. Some of his stained glass works include the windows of St. Philip's Cathedral, Birmingham; St Martin's Church in Brampton, Cumbria; the church designed by Philip Webb, All Saints, Jesus Lane, Cambridge; and in Christ Church, Oxford.

Some of his stained and painted glass works included a cartoon for the “Daniel” window in St. Martin’s-on-the-Hill, Scarborough (1873); the “Nativity” windows in Trinity Church, Boston (1882); “The Worship of the Magi” window in the Trinity Church, Boston (1882); “The Worship of the Shepherds” window in the Trinity Church, Boston (1882); the “Nativity Scene” in St. Mary’s Church, Huish Episcopi, Somerset; “David” in St Michael and All Angels, Waterford, Hertfordshire (1872); “Mariam” in St Michael and All Angels, Waterford, Hertfordshire (1872); and finally “Christ as Salvator Mundi” in St Michael and All Angels, Waterford, Hertfordshire (1896).

Burne-Jones was one of the founding members of the firm Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. Two major designs helped the firm gain its reputation in the late 1860’s: a royal project at St. James’s Palace, and the “green dining room” at the South Kensington Museum of 1867. These projects featured stained glass windows and panel figures by Edward Burne-Jones.

In 1871 Morris & Co. designed the windows at All Saints, these were designed by Burne-Jones. In 1875 Morris & Co. was reorganized and Burne-Jones continued to design with them. Burne-Jones designed stained glass windows in the Christ Church Cathedral and other buildings in Oxford.

Burne-Jones was so highly recognized and appreciated as an artist that upon his death in 1898, the Prince of Wales insisted a memorial service be held at Westminster Abbey. His talents and devotion must have been so recognized and honored.

Burne-Jones was involved in such movements as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, the Aesthetic Movement, and the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Frank Lloyd Wright

2011-02-08T15:59:00.000-08:00

(June 8, 1867 – April 9, 1959)

Frank Lloyd Wright had many great talents. He is well known for being an American architect, interior designer, writer, and educator. He also designed many things within his building designs, such as furniture and stained glass.

Several of his architectural design projects included churches and temples; many included his stained glass designs. During this time, the main use for stained glass was in church windows. He designed the Meeting house for the First Unitarian Society of Madison (Shorewood Hills in suburb of Madison, Wisconsin) in 1946. He also designed the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (Wauwatosa, Wisconsin) in 1956.

Somewhere between 1905 and 1908, Wright designed and constructed the Unity Temple (Oak Park, Illinois.) In order to reduce the noise from traffic, he did not design windows on the street-level. Instead, Wright designed the stained glass windows of the temple to be placed in the roof, to capture the natural light. He chose the colors for his stained glass (brown, green and yellow) in such a way to give the members of the Parish a sense of nature, as they were not able to look outside.

In the 1920’s, when the very first electric floor lamps began in America, Wright was one of the first architects to design and install custom-made electric light fittings. This included some of his spherical glass lampshade designs.

As the glass industry grew, Wright welcomed the new age into his career and designs. He found it fit well with his ideas of organic architecture.

In 1928, Wright wrote an essay about glass and referred to it as the mirrors of nature, for example, rivers, ponds, and lakes.

In his early use of glass, one of his projects included strings of panes of glass along whole walls to create light screens. He wanted to gain a balance of lightness and airiness of the glass and the walls. The most integral part of his career was his ability to combine simple geometric shapes to create intricate windows.

Due to his independence, Wright’s personal styles and concepts often changed. However they most often included “Modernism”, “Urbanism” and “Organic architecture.” Due to his attention to detail with Organic architecture and the nature of glass, stained glass was often an interest to him and was portrayed in his designs.

Famous Quote by Frank Lloyd Wright:

"The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes. If you foolishly ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it. Your life will be impoverished. But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life."

Stained Glass Artist: Louis Comfort Tiffany

2011-02-06T15:14:00.000-08:00

(February 18, 1848 – January 17, 1933)

Louis Comfort Tiffany was a decorative artist and best known for his work with stained glass. He was an American artist involved in the “Art Nouveau” and “Aesthetic” movements in the art industry.

Many of his designs included stained glass windows and lamps, glass mosaics, blown glass, metalwork, ceramics, enamels, and jewelry. Although Tiffany started off as a painter, his interest in glass art began in about 1875.

Tiffany worked at several glass houses from 1875 until about 1878. In 1879, he joined Candace Wheeler, Samuel Colman and Lockwood de Forest to form the Louis Comfort Tiffany company and the Association for American Artists.

In 1881, Tiffany did interior design jobs for several people. His most recognized design job came in 1882, when President Chester Alan Arthur requested his design services for the White House. He designed many of the rooms (the East Room, the Blue Room, the Red Room, the State Dining Room, and the Entrance Hall). He designed many features in the White House, and obviously added Tiffany glass to the gaslight fixtures. He also designed the windows and added the opalescent floor-to-ceiling glass screen in the Entrance Hall.

In 1885, the original Tiffany Glass Company split up and Tiffany established his own firm. The Tiffany Glass Company became incorporated and 1902 became known as Tiffany Studios.

Tiffany began making his own glass for his work pieces, as he wanted to use glass with the impurities left in. He used opalescent glass in many different colours and textures; this allowed him to create a unique style of glass works.

This technique was a brilliant comparison to the old form of coloured glass. The old technique to create coloured glass was to use colorless glass and paint on the colors. The First Presbyterian Church building of 1905 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has a unique design to it, as some of it captures Tiffany windows with some use of painted glass.

In 1893, Tiffany invented the term “Favrile” (Old French word for handmade) with the first production of blown glass at his new glass factory. He then trademarked “Favrile” in 1984. Eventually he used this word to label all of his glass, enamel, and pottery.

Recent scholarships suggest that a team of female designers played a big role in the designing of many of the floral patterns on the famous Tiffany lamps we see today.

Louis Comfort Tiffany has played an integral role in the movement of stained glass. He has changed the techniques used and made the art more practical as a whole. Tiffany has set the foundation for the stained glass industry as we know it and astounded us with his talents in the art form.

Dove Panel

2010-08-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

This stained glass dove panel was brought to me with about half of the pieces broken as the result of an unfortunate accident. Given the sentimental value of the piece, the owner wished to have it repaired as it was a wedding gift. It gives me great joy to see it in the completed, whole state.

Colourful Stained Glass Valance

2010-08-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

The idea of this valance came to mind when we were getting nowhere with traditional ones. We took our idea on paper to Carol and she tweaked it in a way that just made it come to life. Absolutely perfect with great craftsmanship, and an all round great experience. Fred and Starr, London

July 2010 - Flower Medley

2010-07-19T17:43:00.001-07:00

June 2010 Windows

2010-06-29T16:41:00.001-07:00

Transom Project

2010-05-31T11:57:00.000-07:00

A recent project included 7 transom windows for a new home in North London. It was a real thrill for me to work on this project. Hope you enjoy the photos.

For a free custom quote call Carol at 519-461-0004.

2010-03-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

Testimonial from the McLean Family of Lucan

We were looking for help to create authentic pieces to go over our windows. Our house is a hundred plus years old so we wanted to go with a traditional yet creative panel. In one window we wanted to use our family crest as the focal point.

We were also able to incorporate some of the glass from the original window that was there. Carol suggested adding two Celtic knots to accent the design. It was exactly what we were looking for.

For the front window we didn't have an idea of what we wanted except it had to incorporate our house number. Through consultation we ended up with a design that perfectly suited the house.

We appreciated Carol's input as she helped us design pieces that will last for years to come. We love our stained glass. The colours and craftsmanship are wonderful.
Thanks Carol!

Andrew & Mary McLean

Classes - Winter/Spring 2010

2010-02-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

To reserve your place in a class, the class must be paid for. You may purchase through PayPal, at http://www.trickettglass.ca/classes.html, no account is necessary. Or you can pay by cash, cheque or credit card at Trickett Glass Studio or mail payment to PO Box 200, Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0. This payment is non-refundable and ensures commitment to participation.

The classes listed below are for adults; however, there are classes available for kids age 10 and up also.

One Day Beginner Stained Glass - Saturday, Feb 20, 2010, 9am-4pm
Introduce yourself to a new craft! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required. Cost is $75.00 plus PST ($81.00 CAD). Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

One Day Beginner Stained Glass - Saturday, March 13, 2010, 9am-4pm
Introduce yourself to a new craft! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required. Cost is $75.00 plus PST ($81.00 CAD). Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

Beginner Leading Class - Saturday, March 27, 2010, 9am - 4pm
Learn to construct a leaded glass panel using the traditional leading and cementing methods. No previous experience is necessary but a beginner class first is preferred. Cost is $90 plus PST ($97.20 CAD).

One Day Beginner Stained Glass - Saturday, April 10, 2010, 9am-4pm
Introduce yourself to a new craft! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required. Cost is $75.00 plus PST ($81.00 CAD). Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

Fused Wind Chimes Class - Saturday, Apr 24, 2010, 1 - 4 pm
This is a fun, quick introduction to fusing. You will learn how to cut the glass strips, prepare them for the kiln and fuse them. Cost is $50.00 plus PST ($54.00) and includes all materials and tools. Please bring comfortable shoes. Windchimes can be picked up at the studio during the following week.

One Day Beginner Stained Glass - Saturday, May 8, 2010, 9am-4pm
Introduce yourself to a new craft! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required. Cost is $75.00 plus PST ($81.00 CAD). Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

Bevelled Candle Shelter - Saturday, May 15, 2010, 12:30-4pm
A previous class in soldering is necessary to take the Bevelled Candle Shelter course. Register soon as four students is the limit. Cost is $50.00 plus PST ($54.00 CAD) and includes all materials and tools. Please bring comfortable shoes. We will all be making the same design as pictured here.

From Hobby to Business

2009-12-12T19:20:00.000-08:00

You never know where life will take you. Be sure to enjoy the journey, make a conscious effort to drink life in. Remember it’s not just about the destination. Each day and each relationship has purpose. Life has its challenges. Some of them will bring you to your knees. Hard decisions and devastation are opportunities for redirection and growth.

Allow me to share with you what this looked liked for me.

After working at Bell Canada in customer service for 15 years, the department I worked in closed. For many of my co-workers this was devastation. For me, this was the golden opportunity I had longed for. Without this forceful push, I never would have left a regular pay cheque, pension plan and medical benefits to fully follow my dreams.

After accepting the buy out, there have been no regrets. For the first three years I worked a secretarial position part time to help adjust to the financial and lifestyle change.

Depending now on stained glass for my sole income satisfies my free spirit. I do understand now what it means, “robbing Peter to pay Paul”, but I’ve not gone without any essentials. As a matter of fact, I’m growing quite fond of a simpler lifestyle. Arranging my own schedule is a very liberating experience. Yes, there may be 14 hour days at times, but there are also days off when desired and often pleasure mixed with business.

Transitioning from a hobby to a business could be one of the most rewarding events of your life. You can make money doing what you love. You can arrange your own work schedule. You can be free to express your own creativity and abilities. You can be your own boss.

20 questions Your Buyers are asking

2009-11-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

Here is an article I found on Etsy by Sparklerama. So, it is not original with me but I do think it is well written and worth the read if you list items for sale on the internet or are considering this. It's always good to step into the shoes of your clients and this will help you do that.

20 questions YOUR BUYERS are asking!!

Sparklerama says:

Etsy is full of amazing and beautiful things.It would be a shame if your beautiful work didn't sell because your description of the item left your customers scratching their heads.

This is a list to jump start your thinking when you write your next item description. Remember that your customer cannot see the item in person. Don't assume that the qualities of your item are obvious to your customer or that your photos say it all. (I have seen more than one item that I couldn't even figure out what the item WAS!). You might even consider describing your item as if you had no pictures for your customer to look at. Really make them feel like they are right there with your item.

This is not an all inclusive list and some questions may not be appropriate for all items or sellers. This list is just to get you thinking about some of the things your customer might want to know about your fabulous work.

1. What IS it? (It may be totally obvious to you what the item is, but it might not be obvious to your customer).

2. What color is it? (The color on your computer monitor may not be the same as mine).

3. How big is it? (As a buyer I don't want to guess if that painting will fit over my fireplace or if those earrings are going to hang past my shoulders).

4. What is it made from? (What materials and techniques are used?)

5. How do I care for it? (Can I wash and dry that wool sweater?)

6. Who should buy it? or Who should NOT buy it? (Is it appropriate for pregnant women? Children? Pets?)

7. What is it used for? (Is it decorative? Does it have a function? Both?)

8. What does it feel like? (Is that scarf soft to the touch? What's the texture like? Is that necklace very heavy?)

9. How does it work? (Does it slip over my head? Is there a clasp? Do I tie it around my waist?)

10. Why is this one better than the one in the next shop? (What special skills, materials, or ideas do you use that make your item the best?)

11. Do I get everything in the picture? (I see 12 items in your picture, do I get them all? Only one? Does that lovely bauble in the background come with it or is it just for display?)

12. Will it fit me? (When I shop in a brick and mortar shop I might try on 12 things and find only 1 that fits well. I am taking a BIG chance on buying clothes online. Please make it easier for me by offering extensive measurement and sizing information. Don't assume that your customer will know what you mean by "small" or "Large")

13. What if it doesn't fit? (Am I stuck with it? Will you exchange it? Who pays to ship it back?)

14. Is it ready to use? (Is that painting ready to hang? Do I need to frame it first?)

15. How does it arrive? (Is it gift wrapped? Is it ready to ship or is it made to order?)

16. Will I get the EXACT item in the photo? (Is it a stock photo or do I get the exact item?)

17. Is it gonna stink? (Does that vintage item have a funky, musty odor? Does the seller smoke while he creates that item?)

18. How do I know it's "vintage"? (What kind of research did you do to determine how old that item is? Is it marked? Is there a date on it? Are you experienced with vintage and antique items?)

19. What do those fancy terms mean? (Don't take for granted that your customer knows what a cabochon is or what giclee or gocco means.)

20. Can I live without this item? (Chances are your customer can easily live without your items. It's your job to SELL it to them. Let them know why owning this item is so wonderful. Are they gonna feel like a princess with that lovely bracelet? Is that platter not only functional, but makes a wonderful work of art? Is that item the perfect gift for hard to buy for people? Does the item evoke certain emotions? Tell us what's so great about it!)

Hope this was helpful! :)

Promoting Business at Shows

2009-11-02T14:35:00.000-08:00

The more shows I do, the more I learn. Well that's a good thing isn't it? It's very important to be able to identify with your clients and adjust to their needs.

The first major thing I've learned is that it's not all about sales. Now maybe for many vendors, it is about the bottom line. For me, it's important that place my business before the public in a variety of avenues. Print and internet advertising are necessary but so is physical presence. And for me, working long hours in my studio, it's a welcome opportunity to have conversation with the public and feel their pulse on visual art. It's at these gatherings that people tell me what their interests them.

Home shows, rural fairs, art shows, studio tours and Christmas Craft shows are all quite unique. At a Christmas show I will basically sell small seasonal items, but also take medium priced pieces that could be enjoyed year round. At an art show, I love to introduce new and creative ideas. The prices tend to be more upper end. At a studio tour it's nice to be able to demonstrate with a project that you're working on, promoting custom work. It's also a great opportunity to promote classes as many people who do artisan tours are creative themselves. Fairs and home shows are good places to show some custom ideas to give people ideas and to plant the seed for a personal project for their home.

Shows are a networking opportunity with other small business owners. What a chance to meet and share ideas with other like minded (and some not so like minded) people. Vendors are mostly there for the length of the show and sometimes if you do a number of shows you might greet them on a regular basis. Get to know them, ask questions, introduce other entrepreneurs.

And most liberating for me, I've learn to relax and enjoy the shows. Sometimes it can be stressful packing and unpacking, especially when your product is glass. But try to enjoy the setting up and each aspect of the show. I personally don't do alot of them however there are show seasons. I found by the time the last show came, I had a good idea of how to load the van and set up the booth. Well, better late than never.

The main purpose for my shows this season was to help people dream of possibilities. I took exhibits that helped them to see what could be done. Pamphlets for custom work and classes always graced the end of the tables along with my business cards. One day I actually ran out - try not to let that happen!

Have you done shows with your artwork or craft? Let me know, I'd love to hear your ideas.

Country Creations Artisan Tour

2009-10-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

Country Creations Artisan Tour - Oct 24 & 25, 10-5 pm
Our new free tour! Take a leisurely country drive from Thorndale to St Mary's & visit 7 artisan locations for inspiring gifts and treats - we've got wine, quilts, stained glass, alpaca products, jewellery, paintings, soaps and so much more!! Get your tour ticket stamped at each location for a chance to win our gift basket worth over $350! See our attached flyer or visit our website for a full, printable map & brochure with tour ticket: www.countrycreationstour.ca or pick up your brochure with ticket at any artisan location!

Pool Table Lamp Repair

2009-08-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

If you saw your lamp, with a gap like this, hanging from above your kitchen table, would you be concerned? Well my customer was!

After having the electrician remove it, he brought it to my studio. I must tell you that I let it sit on the workbench for a few days before I even got up the nerve to touch it.

First I removed the top pieces that would allow me to get to the trouble area.

Then I removed all the copper foil from the effected area and cleaned the glass. When I removed the old foil and solder, this helped to close the gap.

The pieces were then all refoiled. My favourite tool (the two inch thick telephone book) was placed on the crown of the lamp over night to put just enough pressure to help gravity move things back in place.

The next day I began soldering. This was one of the more challenging soldering jobs that I had done. Because of the angle of the lamp, the hot solder wanted to roll off. I turned the temperature controller on the iron down a little lower than normal so that the flow of the solder could be managed better. Because of the size and weight of the lamp, it was a feat to turn the lamp over. And without a jig, it was tricky to hold it in place at the correct angle for soldering the inside of the lamp. Have I ever told you, I thrive on a challenge?

My main concern in repairing the lamp is that it would be safe to hang back up. I had thought about what extra support I could add. When I removed the old foil, I discovered a wire that had been soldered from cross bar at the top of the lamp and followed the solder line down the lamp to the bottom. This guide wire is what kept the lamp from falling to the floor. It also allowed the lamp to come apart without breaking the glass pieces. So obviously, this wire got soldered back into place as it had been. If it served it's purpose the first time, it was definately an essential part of the design. Once again, a learning experience for me.

Classes Fall 2009

2009-08-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

All classes must be paid in full one week prior to the event. Once the class is paid for, your spot is reserved. You can pay by cash, cheque or credit card at Trickett Glass Studio or mail payment to PO Box 200, 214 Upper Queen St, Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0. This payment is non-refundable and ensures commitment to participation.

Wednesday, Sept 16, 2009, 9am-4 pm
Beginner Stained Glass Class

Introduce yourself to a new hobby! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required.$70.00 plus PST ($75.60 CAD) includes the materials for the project and the use of the tools. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

Tues & Thurs, Nov 3 & 5, 2009, 7-9 pm
Stained Glass - The Next Step

This two evening class is designed for those who have taken a beginner class in the past either at Trickett Glass or elsewhere who have not progressed further but would like to. We will review the basic steps of cutting, grinding, foiling and soldering. There will be lots of time for specific questions. We will watch video clips and you will be given patterns to take home. We will also discuss workshop set up ideas and the option for renting studio time at Trickett Glass. The cost for this class is $40 plus PST ($43.20 CAD).

Saturday, Nov 7, 2009, 9 am-4 pm
Beginner Stained Glass Class

Introduce yourself to a new hobby! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required.$70.00 plus PST ($75.60 CAD) includes the materials for the project and the use of the tools. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.

Saturday, Nov 21, 2009, 12:30-4pm
Fused Wind Chimes Class

This is a fun, quick introduction to fusing. You will learn how to cut the glass strips, prepare them for the kiln and fuse them. Cost is $50.00 plus PST ($54.00) and includes all materials and tools. Please bring comfortable shoes. Windchimes can be picked up at the studio during the following week.

Saturday, Dec 5, 2009, 12:30-4 pm
Snowflake Class

No previous experience is necessary to take the snowflake course. Register soon as four students is the limit. Cost is $45.00 plus PST ($48.60 CAD) and includes all materials and tools. Please bring comfortable shoes. We will all be making the same design but you can choose the colour of globs.

I Want More

2009-04-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a real appetite for something? You crave it so much that the thought of it consumes you. And when you get a taste of it ... you want more. Sure, I feel that way about chocolate ice cream some times, but I also feel this same passion for glass work. It began when I signed up for a beginner class, then took up stained glass as a hobby. Soon people were making specific requests of me and the hobby blossomed into a part time business. As the love affair with glass continued and the opportunity arose, I jumped into the glass business full time. This is the second year that I've been running Trickett Glass full-time. I'm thankful to be able to pay the bills and to make a living while doing what I love, but ... I want more.

As an entrepreneur who is building a business, paying the bills is not enough. I want more. I want to learn. I want to develop relationships with my clients. I want to network with other business owners. I want to share my knowledge.

When the internet (the world wide web) was born, it was promoted as "The Information Highway". This is so true today. I feel we are bombarded by information on the web, whether we want to be or not. But when I want to research a topic on the net, I am usually amazed at how much information is available. For most businesses, if you are not promoting your business on the internet, you are missing out on additinal business. Lately I've been asking myself, "How can I grow my business, with the help of 'The Information Highway'?" There are so many opportunities, it's hard to know where to start. Over the last couple of months I have sought out direction and prayed for wisdom in this regard.

Here are two of the building blocks that I am going to put in place in the coming months to position Trickett Glass for more success on the internet. These same steps could be applied to any small business who has an appetite to grow.

Most importantly, my website needs a fresh makeover. Over the past few years it has fulfilled it's purpose, but business needs are changing. It needs to be more customer interactive. If I want to build relationships with my clients, the website needs to encourage this. An email opt-in allows a business owner to be able to communicate with those who visit the site and want to know more. Shopping carts allow the option for customers to purchase online and makes your products available to those who are unable to visit your physical retail store. Videos and ebooks are a wonderful learning tool to assist in distance learning. There really is no excuse for not having an attractive, informative and engaging website.

Any small business owner wears many hats. Besides making and selling stained glass panels, I also promote my business, keep my books, make deposits, purchase materials, pay suppliers, ship orders, teach classes, print flyers, attend shows and seminars, quote on potential orders, price products, arrange displays, answer the phone, emails and snail mail, etc. Makes me tired just thinking about it. No one works harder than an entrepreneur! A friend of mine who is also an entrepreneur kept telling me to, "Work smarter not harder." I guess it has taken me awhile to catch on, because I still hear this phrase quite often. The second building block that I am installing is using automated systems. Many things that you do repeatedly can be automated. Here are some of the systems that I'm considering: http://www.infusionsoft.com/, http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp, and http://www.aweber.com/. Why spend valuable time doing things that you don't need to do? Along the same line, maybe you can't automate something but you can deligate someone else to do it. You might want to consider hiring a Virtual Assistant. Wikipedia describes a Virtual Assistant as "an entrepreneur who provides professional administrative, technical, or creative (social) assistance to clients from a home office. They usually work for other small businesses, brokers and consultancy groups".

These two building blocks are only the beginning. I'll share more in a future blog about promoting your business online, driving traffic to your website, analysing, etc. Do you want more for your small business? Do you have a craving to dive into entrepeneurship? What's holding you back? Go for it!

Helpful Tips

2009-03-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Other than my first project in stained glass, and a fused glass course, I have been very much self taught over the last 16 years. Many times I have felt that stained glass retailers did not want to give up information unless you bought a class from them. This is very sad. Well, with the development of the internet and many wonderful glass sites and forums, this is slowly changing. And I certainly would never paint all glass artists with the same brush. I'm know that I am not the only one with a passion to learn and a passion to teach. What a rewarding experience to be able to give someone the information to make a process easier or teach them a new approach that will open up new possibilities.

Here are a couple of tips that I learned recently that I want to pass on to you. It is my hope that practical ideas in my blog will be a help and therefore a blessing to you.

There are many ways to cut sheets of glass such as with running pliers or over the edge of a table, but a more reliable way that I've learned from a local retailer is to use a wooden yardstick. I score the glass with my cutter and then place the glass over a yardstick centering it over the score. With light pressure I push with my hands on either side of the yardstick. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.

As stained glass artists something we do quite often is write on glass with a permanent marker, either tracing a pattern piece or labeling the identification of the glass. Usually, the marker just wipes off easily with a little moisture. When the marker has sat for a long period of time and just won't come off, try an eraser. This exact situation happened to me one day when my step son was visiting. Thanks Jay for the tip; it has worked great for me.

And the third tip today, I picked up from Dayle, a stained glass mentor of mine. Sometimes you want to do something a little different from the norm. These candle shelters with a "textured" solder appearance are an example of this. The textured effect on the solder is made by lightly applying a relatively damp sponge to the surface of the bead shortly after drawing it. Try it a few times until you achieve the desired effect to become familiar with how wet the sponge has to be and how hard you have to press it into the soft bead.

Will any of these tips help you? Feel free to comment and let us know. And if you have a glass related tip to share, please tell us about it.

Fusing; An Introduction

2009-03-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Fusing is simply melting glass pieces together in a kiln. Fusing also includes the shaping of fused glass. The purpose of fusing is to combine individual pieces of glass placed either beside or on top of each other into a solid final piece.

When you heat glass it softens. Increasing the heat will allow the glass to become fluid and flow together. When glass is heated and cooled properly, the result is a fused piece of glass that is solid and unbroken. Not all glass can be fused together, it has to be compatible. Glass expands when it is heated and contracts when it is cooled. In order to fuse pieces of glass together they must expand and contract at the same rate, so that the glass does not crack.

Slumping uses heat to bend or shape the glass. Often slumping is accomplished by using molds, heating the glass until it drops into the mold. You can also slump glass over a mold to create wavy sides. This is called draping.

Want to learn more? Beginner Fusing Workshop-Thorndale, ON

May 23, 2009; 9 am – 4 pm
Design and make 2 - 4" tiles in this fusing workshop. Learn the basics of fusing including kiln programming, glass compatibility and fusing cycles. Work with glass frit, stringers, iridized and dichroic glass. Projects will be available to pick up one week after the class. All materials and supplies are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.
Cost is $75, plus PST.

http://www.trickettglass.ca/

Wall Plaques for Kids

2009-02-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

When my grand girl wanted to celebrate her 12th birthday with her friends making garden stones, I agreed. I've taught many adult classes but this was the first one for kids. What a riot! The girls had been previously warned within an inch of their lives about the dangers of working with glass. So when they arrived at Trickett Glass Studio, I just had the joy of guiding them through the project.

All the girls agreed that they wanted to include mirror in their projects and they wanted to hang them on their wall. This just meant that they made them thinner (lighter too) and put a hook on the back. Instead of garden stones they became cement plaques.

So here's the process they followed. First they cut clear mac tac to fit into the bottom of the mold. This held the decorative pieces in place when the cement was poured. The second step was for the girls to arrange the pre-cut glass pieces, mirror and coloured globs in a pattern on top of the mac tac. Thirdly they mixed the cement compound and water until it became the consistency of a milkshake. Carefully they poured the concrete over their design until it became the thickness that they preferred. Then finally they placed a hook in the cement securing it with tape until the plaque dried.

Then the group of girls enjoyed supper and cake while their projects were drying. About two hours later they were able to pop the plaques out of the mold, peel the mac tac off and clean up the front. The project does need to cure so it does need to be handled carefully and should be flipped occasionally for a few days until it is completely dry. If you do put it outside, it should cure first inside for 4 weeks.

Trickett Glass is open to receive all groups for specialized classes whether you are young or young at heart. You can contact Carol through the website http://www.trickettglass.ca/.

American Robin

2009-02-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

So, this is what the finised project, "American Robin" looks like. I decided with all the detail that it would be a shame just to sell this as a suncatcher so I made it into a small panel, dressing it up with bevels. The oak frame just completes it. Because of the rust coloured breast and colour of the frame, I chose to use copper patina on the solder.

Designing

2009-02-16T07:26:00.000-08:00

When I started doing stained glass as a hobby, I never thought of myself as being artistic. After 16 years of working with patterns and adapting them to fit the window size and sketching designs that there aren't patterns for, it's amazing what you pick up and learn. When you cut out the glass for a panel, you also learn that some patterns work better than others. You find yourself saying, "This is a really bad design", and you change it.

I'm at the point now where there are many patterns that I've enjoyed making, but sometimes, I just want to do my own thing, an original. Well I have done this several times but now I'm determined to do it more often. Naturally, there are some days I feel more creative than other days.

A few days ago on Valentine's day, I got the spring time urge to fill my studio with birds and flowers. Not only do my customers love and buy them, but they bring me alot of joy. So I pulled out the old standard robin pattern and started choosing glass. Then it hit me, that I could design a nice robin. And it would be my own. So, I went to work. If you know me, you know that when I start a glass project, and the momentum picks up, I like to keep going until I'm finished.

I hope you enjoy this labour of love. Feel free to use the pattern, but please always give credit where credit is due (a great life principle).

Classes at Trickett Glass

2009-02-07T16:54:00.000-08:00

Everyone's doing it - blogging. Well maybe not everyone but I think it will be a great replacement for the Trickett Glass Newsletter and a great way to share some more personal thoughts as well. It is my intention to try and blog once a week, probably on the weekend. I do hope that you find this communication to be beneficial and will feel free to respond.

First of all, let me point you to some upcoming classes at Trickett Glass http://www.trickettglass.ca/workshops.html . If you know of someone who might be interested in any of these, please pass on this link.

Workshops ~ Winter - Spring 2009

All workshops must be paid in full one week prior to the event. This payment is non-refundable and ensures commitment to participation.

Workshop Dates:
One Day Beginner Workshop
March 28, 2009; 9 am – 4 pm
Introduce yourself to a new craft! You will learn all the skills to create your own stained glass project using the copper foil technique. This is an entry level one day workshop. No prior experience or artistry is required. Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.
Cost is $70, plus PST.

Or organize a group of four people who would like to take the class and we can arrange another day – an option for a birthday or girl’s day out.

Garden Stone Class
April 25, 2009; 9 am – 4 pm
If you have taken a beginner course and know how to cut glass, take this course and learn the essentials for making your own garden stone. We will use quick setting cement and you will be able to take the stone home with you the same day. Materials for the project and the use of the tools are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.
Cost is $60, plus PST.

Beginner Fusing Workshop
May 23, 2009; 9 am – 4 pm
Design and make 2 - 4" tiles in this fusing workshop. Learn the basics of fusing including kiln programming, glass compatibility and fusing cycles. Work with glass frit, stringers, iridized and dichroic glass. Projects will be available to pick up one week after the class. All materials and supplies are included. Please bring safety glasses if you have them, suitable shoes for standing and a bag lunch.
Cost is $75, plus PST.

If you would like to take a beginner workshop with your friends, just let me know and invite your friends. We can arrange a special date for four of you.

You're invited to follow this blog by clicking on "follow this blog" on the right side of the page. The blog will have many of the elements of the past newsletter but also some new ones. You will be able to read some "how to" articles pertaining to various aspects of glass work. There will be contests and special offers. You will be informed about upcoming events and classes. You will be introduced to new products and even special guests. Videos ... may be a possibility.

As I sit here writing and watching Hockey Night in Canada with my hubby, I wish you a relaxing and memorable weekend with your loved ones.