Stained glass

What will the course Cover?

Working on a personal project will give you the opportunity to design and produce a leaded glass panel of approximately A4 or A3 size, incorporating glass painted details, and with the opportunity to explore copper foiling. You will learn how to research, plan, and develop your own stained glass designs. This includes an introduction to colour theory and composition, how to translate two-dimensional designs into stained glass templates (cartoons) and cut-line drawings. The course will also cover traditional techniques, on how to cut and shape glass accurately, construct panels using lead came. You will be introduced to the copper foil (Tiffany) method and basic soldering techniques. The fundamentals of kiln-fired glass painting will be explored, including the use of line and shading, mixing and applying glass paint, along with understanding firing schedules. Alongside practical skills, you will explore the history of stained glass from medieval to modern times and learn about its use in contemporary art and architecture. The course also builds your knowledge of materials, tools, and their maintenance. Health and safety is a key focus, ensuring safe handling of glass, lead, and chemicals, and proper use of studio equipment.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for beginners and those with some creative craft experience who want to explore stained glass. It serves as an introduction to working with stained glass and a foundation for further study in this specialist area.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

No prior experience of stained glass is required. You should have an enthusiasm for the subject and a commitment to completing the course requirements. Basic literacy, numeracy and digital skills appropriate to the level of the course are required. When booking and interview for this course, select the topic, Level 1 Award in Creative Craft - Stained Glass.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

You will gain an in-depth introduction to stained glass and kiln painting. You will explore various specialist materials, tools, and equipment. You will produce samples of fired glass painting to inform your progress. Reflecting on the work of traditional and contemporary artists and designers will support the development of your own work. You will plan, prepare, and review a personal project, creating a leaded and /or copper foiled glass panel while following health and safety procedures. Additionally, you will document the development of your skills, techniques, and design process. By the end of the course, you will be able to work independently and confidently in the stained glass workshop.

How is the course organised?

Demonstrations, practical tasks, presentations, individual and group discussions and formal feedback. Google Classroom is used as a Virtual Learning Environment on this course. When log on you will be able to access course material including, presentations, and handouts. You will be given joining details and support, at the beginning of the course.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

You may be set additional tasks to complete at home. Your tutor will discuss these with you in a session when required. Research visits to study examples of stained glass in buildings, exhibitions, museums. libraries, and online resources are recommended.

How will my progress be assessed?

You will receive regular feedback through individual tutorials and group discussions. Your progress will be tracked through sketchbooks, written reflections and photographic evidence. Formal assessments will occur linked to the Level 1 units. You will also be expected to record your work and progress in both digital and non-digital formats. The qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured through a portfolio of evidence, with no formal exams.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Learners who achieve this qualification can progress to a Level 2 Award in Creative Craft qualification in Creative Craft in Stained Glass.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Basic glass, lead and soldering materials will be supplied to complete the course. You will need to supply your own sketchbook and purchase any additional, specialised materials you require beyond what is available in the workshop. It would be useful to bring your own apron as some processes are messy.

What support is available?

Help with literacy, numeracy or digital skills is available through the functional skills programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide, the Student Handbook or from teaching and reception staff.

Tutor - Kirsty Brooks

Kirsty Brooks is an artist and designer who creates public artworks using collage, glass, photography, digital layering and archive research. She has taught in adult education for twenty years focusing on experimental processes and material combinations. @kirsty_brooks_artist www.axisweb.org/artist/kirstybrooks