Crafting Glass

1) I have patience 2)I'd have to learn a lot, but… is it at all conceivable for a layperson to (over say 10 years) build their own stained glass ceiling? Are there any sources I should use?

depends on if you want ti lit by false light or day ligh, it will have to be constructed in sections , source glass from glaziers they normally have bins of broken glass off cuts that go for recycling, best of all its free you can by the lead molding in a role you will also need a soldering iron solder and a flux, glass is easily shaped if you have a design on paper you can cut and shape glass to fit, you can then reinforce the glass with plexi glass at the back of it if useing lights to light from behind be sure to have access to replace any light s that may fail , its easy and well good luck with it

I have been making and re-selling glass outdoor chairs for about six or seven years. There are many unique techniques of glass top outdoor table. Some of them are made out of wood, some out of plastic, and some are, like mine, made out of metal. More than likely I am biased because of what I do, but it seems like not all glass patio chairs are really the same. I can not understand why anyone would buy a stained glass outdoor table made out of plastic. Yes, plastic is a very cheap, and fairly durable material, but it also has some very strong drawbacks.

It does not have the beauty of cast-metal, or even of wood. So, if you are going to sacrifice looks, then why have glass garden chairs at all. A plastic garden table should have a plastic top, which is both cheaper, and somewhat more durable than glass. That way, the kids can sit at the table and, if they get rowdy as kids often do, there is no need at all to worry about them damaging the top and getting cut on it. glass garden chairs, in my perception, should be elegant in it’s totality, not just simply on the top.

If you are interested in stained glass lawn chairs, you should get a metal one. There are many reasons for this. In the first place, they will simply look even greater than wooden ones, especially after a few seasons. It is ubiquitous expertise that outdoor lumber starts to look lousy very, very swiftly. It will get dingy, it will shrink and swell in the cold and warm, and it will lose its finish. metal, on the other hand, will look the same, almost without end. Aside from this is the fact that there is just a greater harmony between the transparent stained glass top and thin, elegant, metal sides than there would be with relatively thick and clunky teak. There simply are no more elegant pieces of outdoor furniture than glass outdoor tables with green, whether treated metal bordering the cloudy stained glass top.

All of your friends will without a doubt appreciate your taste. On top of that, because there will be little or no shrinking and expanding with the changing seasons, it will be simple to fit garden table replacement stained glass, should the top ever need replacing. For all of these motivations, I have very strong thoughts about the proper stained glass patio chairs. Those are, by design, the kind of glass patio chairs that I make. I would not make a product that I could not support!

Although stained glass can be bought today, stain glass supplies are found for those who are ambitious in producing their own. Stained Glass utilizes particular materials due to a rather intricate and involved process of creation. Common stain glass supplies are described below.

1. Glass-the most basic stain glass supply. The glass should be thin enough to be easily cut without shattering or cracking, but should also be heavy enough to withstand the element. Glass is sold according to weight and in square-foot sheets. Various textures are available, such as wavy, smooth, rippled, etc. These present a challenge, especially when coloring and cutting, but the process is fun, and the end result is breathtaking!

2. Metallic Salts and Oxides-these create color when the glass is fired in a kiln. Copper should be integrated for green, and blue glass or gold oxides for red and orange.

3. White Glass—this might be necessary, should the colors come out too dark. Mixing white glass on a blow pipe and then blowing onto red glass lightens the resulting color.

4. Blow Pipe—Monumental to blow white glass, if necessary. This process, described above, serves to lighten dark-colored glass.

5. Grozing Iron-this is for cutting glass in previously determined shapes according to the specific designs of the stained glass project.

6. Lead-this is stripped into previously determined shapes so that they can be fitted between then the pieces of glass. Since lead poisoning has become a real potential problem, Copper Foil serves as a viable substitute for lead. The latter just might even be more low-priced to use in the long run.

7. Soldering Iron-this is required to reconnecting the glass pieces with the lead strips or Copper Foil alongside the edges.

8. Frames-since these are to be watertight, the use of wooden frames are not advised. Metal or lead frames, or some other solid but not-too-heavy material should be considered for stained glass.

9. Oily Cement-this is applied by filling the joints to make the frame water tight all the way around.

Stained Glass is made pretty much the same way as it was during the Middle Ages, but the progression in technology has simplified the approach. It requires tremendous skill, so those who are interested are advised to read up on it in detail. It is important to know which stain glass supplies are needed and why.

The right Stain Glass Supplies can make anyone into a regular Michaelangelo. Well not quite, but it’s a great start!

1. A sense of historic connection resonates with buyers today. French, English, Tuscan and Spanish homes with stone or stucco walls, tile roofs, iron fixtures, heavy beams and rustic floors are in demand. Old world styles are in demand.

2. The Craftsman style, built in the early 1900’s, is back. Rustic stonework, deep eaves, tapered columns and wide trim, reflect the handmade look over the mass produced.

3. Farmhouses and country homes are sought after for remodeling and are a source of ideas for new homes. Wood windows, simple floor plans, local stone and muted colors connect with nature and earlier times.

4. The retro look is fashionable, and a great fit with fashionable mid century modern furniture styles. Younger folks are breathing new life into their parent’s ranch styles and split levels from the 1950’s.

5. Urban modern is everywhere, with experimental use of space, color, tile, glass, plastic and metal.

6. The preferred ceiling height is about 9 – 12 feet. Two story ceilings are out. In small rooms these feel like towers.

7. Lots of floor level changes are not desirable. These can cause tripping and are not pleasant to live with.

8. Most buyers today want at least two living areas and four bedrooms. Formal dining rooms are still in demand. Formal living rooms are often converted to studies, libraries, or guest rooms. Media rooms are a sought after feature when price range allows.

9. The visual and spatial connection between kitchen and family room is firmly established.

10. Cabinet space is required for large televisions and wall space is needed for the newer flat screens.

11. Three car garages are in demand, especially in areas without basements.

12. Structured wiring is important today for internet, phone, cable and sound. Desk space for computers, fax machines, printers, etc. is required.

13. Good access to the outdoors is a basic design requirement. French doors combine access with light. Sliding glass doors are not as favored.

14. Lots of storage is needed for today’s lifestyle. People have lots of stuff. Huge master closets, pantries, laundry rooms, and extra storage closets are expected.

15. For some people, very spare lofts are perfect. Simplified spaces are an antidote to today’s complex lifestyle.

16. Most buyers are savvy about kitchen design and appreciate good work spaces with easy access to range, refrigerator and sink. Lots of counter space, deep drawers, two sinks, nearby extra refrigerator, and butler’s pantries are all desirable features.

17. Stainless appliances are still in vogue. In urban modern styles, white and colored appliances are back. High end homes conceal some appliances in cabinetry.

18. Eat-in kitchens, with breakfast bar or room for a small table, are a basic requirement for most buyers.

19. Antique tables or cabinets are being refurbished and used as bath cabinets. Kitchen cabinets that look like furniture are a great look.

20. Granite and stone counters are popular. However, granite tops added to 1980’s cabinets do not go over well. Consider your architectural style before adding features. Concrete countertops are perfect for ultra modern, but are not a mainstream feature.

21. Built in refrigerators are desired. Wide, cabinet depth refrigerators have a built-in look, and are not as expensive as the true built-in type.

22. Large rustic stone or ceramic tiles, concrete or wood floors have a warm, functional appeal. Subway tile (3″ x 6″) is popular in bathrooms and on kitchen backsplashes. Patterned cultured marble and laminate are out. Slippery, white floor tile is out.

23. Generous trim is a much appreciated upgrade. Wide, baseboards (6″), and door and window trim (4″) are key features in old European and American styles.

24. Craftsman style doors work well with both old and modern looks. These are simple square frames with flat panels. Iron or heavy wood entry doors make strong statements that buyers love.

25. Rustic finishes on hardware, such as brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, weathered brass, and other non-shiny finishes are the popular choices.

26. Rustic wood beams or wood covered ceilings create a hand crafted, primitive look that buyers like.

27. Wrought iron gates, stair rails and light fixtures compliment the rustic style. Stair rails in ultra modern homes may be wire, pipe or painted metal.

28. Front porches and covered patios are always a strong selling point. Outdoor fireplaces are popping up everywhere.

29. Re-claimed wood used on floors or walls is very desirable. New wood floors that have been distressed or scraped are valued. A variety of wood boards with cracks exposed are being used instead of traditional wood flooring.

30. Bamboo floors are popular, especially in modern style homes where light colored floors are desired.

31. Concrete floors – often stained and scored are popular. These go well with the modern look, and are used in Craftsman and rustic European styles too.

32. Colorful laminate floors are a good fit with mid-century modern. Laminate floors that look like wood are out. Parquet floors are out, unless they are hand crafted.

33. Framed or hung mirrors are preferred, although plate glass works in ultra modern styles. Mirrors used on walls or ceilings are a turn off.

34. Colors are in, but soft is the word. Soft greens, yellows, earth tones and creams create a serene background that works with all styles. Complex colors, with more colors in the mix, are a more interesting choice. Deeply saturated colors, such as plums and reds, are used in moderation.

35. Flat paint on walls hides flaws and creates a designer look. Shiny is out. Soft whites are safe for trim.

36. Faux finishes are out. Often these do not turn out as well as expected, and are difficult to maintain. The same (or similar) wall color through adjoining spaces creates a more spacious feeling.

37. Historic paint colors such as sage greens, beiges, muted yellows, and grays work well on the exterior. Bold or harsh colors are a turn-off to most buyers.

38. Wallpaper is problematic and harder to change than paint. Very often it does not fit the buyer’s taste. Heavily textured walls and popcorn ceilings are totally out.

39. Buyers want more windows, natural light, and a greater connection with the outdoors. People today are more discriminating about the quality of light. Windows on two sides of the room balance the lighting and reduce glare.

40. One light in the middle of the room will not do. Under cabinet task lighting is appreciated. Security lighting is important. Wall sconces offer soft ambient lighting. Recessed cans provide area light. Dimmers help to control the lighting.

41. Light fixtures are a decorative element in all styles. Retro fixtures are interesting decorative features in 1930’s craftsman and 1950’s ranch styles.

42. Clean, modern fixtures, such as pendant lights, recessed cans, and wire string lights compliment the urban look. Industrial metal fixtures are in. The un-decorated look of metal or stainless steel is being used with modern and rustic styles.

43. Heavy drapes are out. Light cotton, linen or silk drapes are used. Or, wood blinds. Or nothing. Retro woven wood blinds have made a comeback. Mini blinds are very yesterday.

44. Bath fixtures are finished in rustic bronze, nickel, or chrome. Old style two-handled faucets and farmhouse sinks are in style.

45. Bath sinks may be glass bowls, granite, stone, stainless or traditional china. Free standing tubs are in. Pedestal and wall hung lavatories are in. Cultured marble is out.

46. With fuel costs going up, energy efficiency is important. Buyers want high efficiency AC, good insulation, low-e glass, programmable thermostats, double pane windows, and ceiling fans.

47. Effective passive solar orientation is a great advantage. It shows a smart planning and use of natural solar energy. No one wants foil on windows or stick-on window film.

48. Instant hot water is a perk that buyers like, as are drinking water filters.

49. Do remove solar screens when they are not needed, such as under patio roofs, porches or shade trees. Light is more in demand than ever.

50. Screened porches are back. They create a fun, multi purpose space that is both indoors and outdoors.

Bathroom vanity mirrors are an important part of the look of a bathroom. Often the mirror is part of a vanity set, so the style and color match well to achieve an overall look. One important question to ask yourself when purchasing a new bathroom vanity mirror, is, do I need one with a medicine cabinet? This question can be answered with the function you expect from the piece and the function of the room. It may not be necessary to have one in a guest powder room but it can provide added storage in a master bath. If the bathroom is small every extra bit of space can make life easier.

Today’s home designers have gotten away from the ugly old medicine cabinets that Grandma had, and have designed new striking accessories that can transform the look of the average bathroom. These designers have found creative ways to hide hinges and handles making them functional and stylish, you wouldn’t even know there was a medicine cabinet. The interiors of the cabinets can be just as important as the exterior. There are many choices in shelving, wood, glass, or plastic. The height of the shelves can also be important, dictating the size of the items you can place inside. The interiors can even be lined with a rustproof aluminum for homes on the sea shore.

There has been a recent trend lately to remodel older homes to their original state. When doing this the bathroom fixtures can not be overlooked. Finding original style bathroom mirrors can be difficult often the glass needs to be replaced because it can become cloudy or specked with age. It is also possible to find brand new mirrors in the retro styles to fit with period look you are trying to achieve.

If the traditional look is not for you, modern or contemporary may be just the ticket. These styles allow for a more unique and personal impression. Just a plain mirror with beveled edges can give your bathroom a sleek and modern appearance. There are also made types of frames that can be used to reflect personal style. In a smaller space maybe a shiny aluminum or chrome is the way to go; it will reflect even more light making the room seem larger. There are also more functional types of mirrors, ones with three sides, hinged so the user can move them to get different views.

Any style you decide to use should be functional as well as stylish to reflect your originality. A new bathroom mirror can compliment an old vanity giving your bathroom a fresh look without the added cost of new fixtures. So have fun with choosing a mirror because you may have to face it every morning.

Iv got an aquarium set up with those glass beads you see in craft stores and in vases. I have them for the bottom of my tank. I'm wondering if they're okay and if they will grow algae on them because i also have an algae eater.
Im wondering about the algae because if theres no algae the fish could starve

Generally they're okay but shouldn't be the only thing in the tank and you need to be sure there isn't some kind of laquer or paint on them that can chip off or leach chemicals into your water. You will still need some kind of gravel or sand since the glass marbles of any kind generally don't make a good surface for algae or beneficial bacteria to grow on. Be sure you are offering other foods to your algae eater…Most tanks don't grow the right kind of algae for them in a big enough amount to maintain their health. They need a varied diet just like we do. Be sure to offer algae wafers and blanched veggies(dipped in boiling water for a few seconds so the veggie doesn't float) periodicly. Zucchinni, squash, cooked peas with the hull off (smoosh each one between your fingers and give them the inner pieces), canned green beans.

More specifically I am looking for fantasy, fairies, elves. I have found a few free sites which are no good, lol. So I am hoping someone out there knows some actual good ones. Thanks

All I have is a pattern that is an afghan stitch for stained glass afghan. It has 12 different patterns to make it up. If this helps check my avitar and e-mail me.

Glasses washed in our disk washer develop a haze (or etching) on them over a relatively small amount of time. In AZ, we have hard water but we have a water softener. Dish washer appears to be "staining" glasses. Dish washer is a Bosch (doubt that matters)

My experience is that, once etched, glasses cannot be repaired. To avoid etching them, use a bit less dishwasher detergent, avoid lemon dishwasher detergent, and if all else fails, handwash the really good ones.

I want to pick the best, cleanest, safest cutting board surface. What is preferred? Glass, styrene, wood? Do certain products cause knife blade to become dull with usage?

I have an expensive glass cutting board and a cheap plastic one, guess which one I use? I used the glass cutting board once and hated it. If you are looking at it from a cleanliness standpoint, things like meat and poultry are what a glass cutting board are supposed to protect you from (because they clean up better), but glass is practically useless for cutting meat unless you want to sharpen your knife after each use. Because meat can be tough to cut, you need a surface with some kind of give. With glass' unforgiving surface, you really have to saw the crap out of it, dulling your knife (and I have to have a sharp knife). To me, it's a lot easier to thouroughly clean a cheap cutting board than to sharpen and get a good edge on a knife.
And for all the germophobes, I've never gotten sick from using a cheap cutting board. If there were any serious health risk, the FDA or whoever regulates such things, wouldn't allow it on the market.

I am restoring my great grandmother's kitchen dresser and it has stained glass windows in the doors. I have sanded back the woodwork to be re-oiled but am unsure of how to clean the glass without damaging it or the lead holding the pieces together.

Vinegar Windex or Isopropyl alcohol.