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 paints, enamels, and silver stain, 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, but an Entry Level qualification or experience with craft and art materials would be an advantage. Literacy and numeracy at an appropriate level is required.

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, group discussions, and targeted tasks. Your progress will be tracked using an individual learning plan, project records (written and photographic), and sketchbooks. Formal assessments will occur throughout the course, with both oral and written feedback. You will also be expected to record your work and progress in both digital and non-digital formats.

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 or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. 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 - Tim Cunliffe

Tim Cunliffe is an artist who has been working in the media of stained glass, sculpture and drawing for nearly forty years. He has taught in the adult education sector since 1992 as well as in further education and as a visiting lecturer on degree courses. He trained as a sculptor at Canterbury College of Art on the BA Fine Art course from 1980-83. From 1988, he attended the Post Graduate Diploma in Stained Glass course at Central Saint Martin’s School of Art where he was taught by Amal Ghosh. He was awarded the Caroline Swash Stained Glass Fellowship in 1990. Throughout his career Tim has carried out many commissions in glass and taken part in numerous exhibitions both in the UK and internationally. He has exhibited as a member of the contemporary glass artists’ group New London Glass since 2001. His sculptural work includes cast bronze reliefs and unique fine art pieces in glass that he combines with other materials such as wood and metal. The British Museum acquired one of his bronze art medals in 2002. In 2018 he was commissioned to create a stained glass panel to illustrate the front cover of the UK based magazine, Shortlist. He has led workshops in the Victoria & Albert Museum and the British Museum.