Laura StrotherBig Thought Residency Artist
Stained Glass Lesson Plan (4 Days)
In this introductory program to glass, students are given a brief history of the origin of
glass and how it is made. Instruction focuses on how to design and create individual
stained glass projects using professional materials. Emphasis is also given to response
and incorporation of information through hands-on activities that teach chemistry,
abstract/realistic design, proportion, scale, and how they relate to stained glass
projects. This class gives students the ability create a sun catcher from start to finish.
Day 1- Students receive a brief introduction to the history and material of glass. Students
are given instructions on sizing, picking out materials to use, and safety considerations
when handling glass. Design topics discussed: realistic design, abstract design, and use
of texture. For the remainder of class, students design project, then pack up individual
glass pieces before leaving class.
Day 2- Students open up projects from previous day, layout designs, and receive
instructions on step 2, which is using copper foil . There is a demonstration on how and
why copper foil is used in stained glass and how to wrap individual glass pieces, so glass
sun catcher will hold together effectively. The remainder of class is designated for
student work time, questions, and clean up.
Day 3- Students return to classroom and continue wrapping glass pieces with copper
foil. There is a demonstration of step 3, which is soldering the glass project together
using a soldering iron. Artist communicates about the metals and flux used, identifies
the tools of a stained glass artist, safety, and how the class will melt their own project
with supervision. Students return to foiling their projects and as they conclude, they
begin melting their projects together. Time is allotted for questions, clean up, and
washing finished projects.
Day 4- Students enter class and finish up all copper foiling and take turns melting any
unfinished projects. While students wait to solder, they can double check foiling job,
place design on piece of wood, and work on word scramble or coloring sheet. The
remainder of class is devoted to finishing all projects and cleaning up materials and
workspace. Sun catchers are ready to take home or display at the discretion of the
teacher/ provider.
Additional hours can be added to this basic lesson plan for flexibility or to have a more
in depth experience. Any questions about stained glass or bookings, please contact
Laura Strother directly via email or phone.
Contact Information:
Laura Strother
Txglassgirl@sbcglobal.net
(214)632-2882