The traditional method of creating stained glass panels uses lead came. There is now also copper foiling, where the edges of the glass are wrapped with adhesive copper tape and the edges joined together using solder. Either method produces georgous results that are worth giving pride of place in your home.

I am a lover of stained glass, and have learned how to produce pieces such as lamp shades, candle holders of all shapes and sizes, suncatchers and even a delightful terrarium. Glass is such a versatile and beautiful medium to work with. I must admit however, that it does take some skill and patience to work with. Cutting the glass is an exacting science that needs precision and care. It's so very easy to break if you haven't scored the glass perfectly. The other somewhat difficult step is soldering all the pieces together.

Although soldering is not difficult in itself, it takes practise to produce a smooth, even result over the whole piece. When I first started out making stained glass panels, I ended up with lumpy looking joins and got a bit disheartened with it all. But I found with practice, that I got better at it and the results were eventually quite pleasing.

If you are learning the art of making stained glass panels or other pieces, and you are finding it a bit of a struggle to get your piece looking like the picture, don't despair! Practice, practice and more practice. Believe me, it is totally worth it.

You can make so many different decorative and useful items with glass. What a great gift to be able to give someone special! Stained glass items that come directly from your own hand!

If you desire and appreciate the beauty of stained glass, purchasing stained glass panels or other stained glass art is the obvious alternative rather than making your own. There are some truly beautiful stained glass pieces available which are almost irresistible and just beg to be purchased and hung in pride of place around the home.