How to Choose a Stained Glass Artist: Questions to Ask
/Quick answer: To choose a stained glass artist, look at their real work, ask how they design with you, and ask about their glass, technique, repairs and who you'll work with. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, welcomes these questions from homeowners across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to ask them.
Why the Artist Matters
Stained glass is handmade, so the result depends on the person making it. Two of the biggest complaints people have about stained glass are poor glass and poor craftsmanship. The right questions help you avoid both when hiring a stained glass artist.
8 Questions: How to Choose a Stained Glass Artist
- Can I see your work? Look for photos of real projects, like the gallery.
- Do you design custom pieces? Or sell from a catalog?
- How will we work on the design together? Listen for sketches and revisions.
- What glass do you use? Stained glass quality starts with the glass.
- What technique do you use? Lead came, copper foil or both?
- Do you do repairs and restoration? Useful if you have older glass.
- Who will I work with? The artist, or a salesperson?
- How do you handle installation? Ask who installs and how.
Questions About Your Project
These stained glass contractor questions depend on the job. For doors, ask whether glass can go in your existing door; a door conversion may be an option. For windows, ask about privacy, light and fit. For repairs, ask whether the piece should be repaired or replaced.
Red Flags
Watch out for no photos of their own work, pressure to decide on the spot, vague answers about glass and technique, and reluctance to explain how the work is done.
About Steve
Steve Downing founded The Glass Master in 1989. His signature technique combines copper foil and leaded glass for a painted look, every piece is custom, and clients are part of the design. You work with Steve directly. Read more about Steve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a stained glass artist?
Look for real work you can see, a custom design process, good glass and honest answers.
Is copper foil or lead better?
Each has strengths: copper foil holds fine detail and lead adds strength, which is why Steve combines both.
Should I hire a local stained glass artist?
A local artist makes it easier to meet, measure and install, especially for doors and windows.
Talk to Steve
About The Glass Master: The Glass Master is a custom stained glass studio owned by Steve Downing in Thornton, Colorado, serving Denver and the north metro, including Westminster, Northglenn, Broomfield, Arvada and Brighton. Phone: (303) 457-1886.
Call Steve at (303) 457-1886, 7am to 5pm daily, or send a message. Browse the gallery for examples.
