FAQ Information
The information below will answer many commonly asked questions. Please email me with any further questions or ideas that you may have by visiting the Contact page.
Design - Any way you want it
There are many design options when it comes to stained glass and almost any idea is possible! I'll work with you to help select the specific style design that most suits you.
Existing Design Work: Browse the many beautifully designed pieces in the Store section of this site.
Semi-Custom Design: Choose from an existing design that I will then custom-size and/or color customize according to your needs. Browse the Gallery for a base design, or I can provide pre-set drawings from which you can choose.
Full Custom Design: If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind, custom piece, I offer design services for commissioned work based on your particular style and specification needs.
Your Own Design: If you are feeling artistic and want to design your own piece, I encourage it! Sometimes adjustments may be required so I can actually cut the glass, but we can always work it out.
Process
Obtaining your completed piece of art may be as simple as placing an order for existing work on the website or as elaborate as a fully customized commission.
Initial Consultation: Let’s talk! There is no charge for this first stage of the design process. You can set up a planning meeting via email, phone, Skype, or in person to share information about what you would like. I can help determine your areas of interest through design books, sketches, and samples. Many people start with a picture of where the glass art will be installed — I can help with the rest!
Design Creation: I create a unique design based on your preferences in style, color, measurement specifications and more. This begins with the proposed basic design, followed by completed drawings for a finalized design.
Material Selection: There are so many beautiful textures and colors of glass, and I can walk you through your options. The selections I propose will be driven by the design itself and the setting for the work. If you're not sure about colors, I can send a few color combinations, and you can pick.
Production: This is when the magic happens... going from a design on paper to a beautiful piece of art! This phase involves acquiring materials, cutting glass, joining, copper foil or lead work, soldering and finishing. Production time will depend on the scope of the work. Generally it will take 2-4 weeks to complete production.
Pricing/Quote for custom work
Prices vary according to size and complexity of the design. A large, simple design may cost less than a smaller, more complex design. The more complex the design, the more individual pieces of glass there are to cut and prepare. There are also considerations of glass selection; this may not be a factor unless a specialized glass is used.
I will provide a preliminary quote prior to the design process, based on your size specification and estimated of number of glass pieces according to style preference. This will give you a general price upfront, which may then be finalized once the final design drawing is approved. Of course, the design can be adjusted according to your budget and desired scope of work.
Payment
Payment is accepted by checks or credit card. 50% prepayment is due upon approval of the initial quote. Final balance payment is due upon completion of the work. Checks need to clear the bank before final artwork is shipped. Credit card payments go through PAYPAL, and cost 3% more.
Local Atlanta area: 50% prepayment with final balance due upon delivery by me or pick-up by the client.
Non-Local: 50% prepayment with final balance due just prior to shipment of artwork. Prior to balance due, I will provide one or more photos of the completed artwork to the client to show work completion as per the agreement. Once I receive their final payment, I ship the artwork immediately (insured, of course).
Delivery
Each piece is carefully hand-packed and shipped from Atlanta, GA. Packages will include delivery confirmation and insurance as part of the shipping cost. If the order is local within the metro Atlanta area, I can arrange for hand delivery to a business or residence.
Installation
Installation needs will depend on the type of glass art and your needs/wants. All my Decorative Panels & Suncatchers pieces come with attached hanging rings and at least 2' of decorative chain.
There are various methods for installing Windows, Cabinets, Doors and Transoms. You may use an existing frame or have a new one made. Cabinets are often an easy install with either silicone or screwed cabinet clips. For existing windows, the stained glass can often be clipped in behind your existing glass, especially if it is already double paned. Other times you can install the stained glass behind your existing glass with molding. I recommend using a carpenter or DIY if you are handy. If this is a local application in the Atlanta region, I can make recommendations on ideal installation methods.