Stained Glass Ideas for Your Home Before the Holidays

Quick answer: The best stained glass ideas for home updates focus on high-impact spots: a front door insert or sidelights, a dining room or stairwell window, a fireplace screen, cabinet glass, and hanging panels or suncatchers as gifts. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, designs stained glass for homes across the Denver metro. Every piece is custom, so call (303) 457-1886 early to start the conversation.

Why Think About Stained Glass Now?

The holidays bring guests, gatherings and a lot of time at home. Stained glass is one of the few holiday home upgrades that changes how a space feels and lasts for generations. Custom pieces take time to design and build, so planning ahead helps, even if your project lands after the holidays.

Room-by-Room Stained Glass Ideas for Home

The Front Entry

A door conversion adds decorative glass to your existing door, typically installed in just over an hour.

The Dining and Living Rooms

A feature window or transom adds color where people gather, and a fireplace screen brings glow to the hearth.

The Kitchen

Cabinet inserts, a pantry door with glass or a window above the sink add character to the busiest room.

The Stairwell and Bathroom

Tall stairwell windows and bathroom windows benefit from privacy glass that keeps them bright.

The Wine Room or Bar

Custom glass gives a wine room door real personality.

Where to Add Stained Glass as a Gift

Hanging panels and suncatchers make memorable gifts, and heirloom pieces like family crests are meant to be passed down. Check the store for ideas.

Stained Glass Home Decor Ideas: Planning Tips

Start with one focal point, think a little larger than your first instinct, consider how light moves through the room, and coordinate with other glass in the house. See finished work in the home gallery.

Working With Steve

Steve designs with you, using his signature copper foil and leaded technique for a painted look. You work with him directly from the first call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best stained glass ideas for a home?

Front door inserts, sidelights, feature windows, fireplace screens and cabinet glass make the biggest visual impact.

Can a stained glass project be done before the holidays?

It depends on the project and the schedule, so call early to talk about timing.

Does stained glass make a good gift?

Yes. Hanging panels, suncatchers and heirloom pieces make lasting, personal gifts.

Plan Your Holiday Upgrade

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 ideas.

Basement Window Privacy With Stained Glass

Quick answer: For basement window privacy without losing daylight, textured, leaded or stained glass panels blur the view from the yard or window well while letting light through. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, designs basement window glass for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your basement.

The Basement Window Problem

Basement windows sit at ground level, often facing a window well, a neighbor's yard or the sidewalk. Blinds block the little light you have, and film can look flat.

How Stained Glass Improves Basement Window Privacy

Stained and textured glass blur the view in while keeping the room bright. They also hide an unattractive window well and remove the need for curtains.

Basement Window Ideas

• Textured clear glass for privacy with maximum light
• Clear glass with rondels for a touch of color
• Nature scenes that replace a window-well view
• Geometric patterns for modern finished basements
• Bright, warm colors to make a lower level feel cheerful
• Themed rooms, like a wine room or bar, with coordinating glass

Egress Window Glass Needs Special Care

Egress windows in basement bedrooms are there for emergency escape. Anything you add must not block them or prevent them from opening. Check local code requirements before changing an egress window, and talk through options with Steve before designing. A panel can sometimes be designed to open with the window or lift out easily.

Room-by-Room Tips

In a basement bedroom, aim for privacy while keeping egress fully usable. In a bathroom, textured glass keeps things bright and private. A home office benefits from soft light, and a media room can take richer colors.

Practical Considerations

Basement openings are often small, so simple designs with bold shapes read best. Steve will look at your window and how it's built before recommending an approach.

Working With Steve

Steve designs with you and builds every stained glass basement window custom, using his copper foil and leaded technique. See ideas in the windows gallery and wine cellar gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get basement window privacy without losing light?

Textured or stained glass blurs the view while letting daylight through, unlike blinds.

Can stained glass go on an egress window?

Only in ways that keep the window fully operable, so check local code and discuss it before designing.

Can a panel be added to my existing basement window?

Often, yes. A custom panel can be built to fit the existing opening.

Brighten Your Basement

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 stained glass gallery for ideas.

Custom Stained Glass in Denver: Why Every Piece I Make Is Custom

Quick answer: Every piece of custom stained glass I make for Denver homes is designed for one opening, one home and one person. I'm Steve Downing, founder of The Glass Master in Thornton, CO, and I've worked this way with homeowners across the Denver metro since 1989. Call me at (303) 457-1886 to start a conversation about your piece.

Why I Don't Work From a Catalog

People sometimes ask whether I have a book of designs to pick from. I understand the question, but catalog designs rarely fit a real home the way they should. Openings aren't standard. Light changes from house to house and room to room. And people are different: what feels right in one home feels wrong in another.

What Custom Stained Glass in Denver Really Means

• Designed for your opening: I design for the exact space, whether it's a door, a transom, an arch or a cabinet.
• Designed for your light: a south-facing window floods with sun, a north-facing one has soft light, and I choose glass accordingly.
• Designed for your style: Victorian, Craftsman, farmhouse or modern.
• Designed for your story: a family crest, a favorite flower, a mountain you love.

That's what makes a piece truly one-of-a-kind stained glass.

How I Learned to Work This Way

Before glass, I was Executive Chef at one of Denver's largest catering companies. Every event was different, and every client had their own vision. I learned to listen, then create something specific for them. When I saw original Tiffany works in Washington, D.C., I realized glass could be just as personal.

You're Part of the Design

I believe the client is an integral part of the design process. We talk about your space and style, you share photos and inspiration, I sketch, and we refine together. Then I select glass that fits the design and the light, and I build the piece. My signature technique combines copper foil, for fine details with a painted look, and leaded glass, for strength.

What I Make

Door conversions and custom door glass (learn more), sidelights and transoms, windows, pantry and cabinet inserts, fireplace screens, wine room glass, and repairs. Every piece of custom glass in Denver homes that leaves my studio is built for one place.

Custom work fits better and means more. It's also why so many clients come back to me for another piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have stock designs to choose from?

My work is custom, so we design each piece together for your home.

What if I don't know what I want?

That's fine. We'll talk about your space and style, and I'll sketch ideas for you to react to.

Can you match glass I already have?

Often, yes. I'll look at your existing glass and design a piece to coordinate with it.

Let's Make Something Just for You

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 me at (303) 457-1886, 7am to 5pm daily, or send a message. See my work in the gallery and read more about me.

Drafty Stained Glass Windows? Get Ready for Winter

Quick answer: Drafty stained glass windows usually come from dried-out cement, cracked putty, loose lead or gaps in the frame, and most of these can be repaired without replacing the glass. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, repairs stained glass for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 before winter sets in.

Why Drafty Stained Glass Windows Happen

A leaded panel is made of many pieces of glass held in lead and sealed with cement. Over time, cement dries out, putty cracks and lead loosens. Colorado's temperature swings and wind add stress. Small gaps let cold air through.

Common Causes and Solutions

• Dried-out cement: can let air and water through the panel; re-cementing or re-leading may help
• Cracked or missing putty: the seal between panel and frame can be replaced
• Bowed or loose panels: may need reinforcement or re-leading
• Frame gaps and rot: the frame may need repair
• Single-pane glass: stained glass alone isn't strong insulation

Stained Glass Energy Efficiency and Protective Glazing

Some homeowners add an exterior protective glazing layer for stained glass insulation. It can help, but it should be installed properly and ventilated so moisture doesn't build up between the layers. Ask before adding it.

A Fall Checklist for Winterizing Stained Glass

1. Look for light or gaps around the panel and frame.
2. Feel for drafts on a windy day.
3. Check putty for cracks or missing sections.
4. Look for bowing or rattling glass.
5. Check frames for rot or gaps.
6. Call for anything structural before the cold arrives.

Doors and Sidelights Too

Leaded glass in doors and sidelights can loosen with years of opening and closing. A door conversion is another way to bring decorative glass to an entry.

What Not to Do

Don't fill gaps with household caulk, push on bowed panels, or use harsh cleaners. These can make a repair harder.

Steve's Approach

Steve will look at what's causing the draft and be honest about whether a repair will solve it. See work in the windows gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my stained glass window drafty?

Most drafts come from dried-out cement, cracked putty, loose lead or gaps in the frame.

Can drafty stained glass be fixed without replacing it?

Often, yes. Re-cementing, new putty, frame repair or re-leading can solve most drafts.

When should I check my stained glass for winter?

Early fall is a good time, so any repairs are done before cold weather arrives.

Get Ready for Winter

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 stained glass gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass for Historic Homes in Denver

Quick answer: The best approach to stained glass for historic homes is to preserve and repair original glass first, then add new pieces designed to match the home's era. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, repairs and designs period glass for older homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your home.

Denver's Historic Homes and Their Glass

Older Denver neighborhoods are full of Victorians, Denver Squares, Craftsman bungalows and Tudors. Many still have original glass in transoms, front doors and stair windows, and many others have empty frames where the glass was lost.

Preserve What You Have

Original glass is part of a home's character and can't be replaced exactly. Repair before replacing: cracked pieces and loose lead can often be fixed. Save every fragment, since old pieces help guide a repair or a new design. If your home is in a historic district, check its guidelines before making changes to historic home windows.

Add Stained Glass for Historic Homes That Fits

Steve is asked at least 10 times per year about bringing glass back into empty frames, and it's one of the most satisfying projects. A new piece can be designed for the original frame with period stained glass patterns and colors. Interior glass counts too: cabinet doors, built-ins and transoms between rooms. See examples in the transoms gallery and fireplace and cabinets gallery.

Matching Styles by Era

These are general patterns, and every house is different:

• Victorian and Queen Anne: rich color, jewels and ornate borders, the look many people mean by Victorian stained glass in Denver
• Denver Square and Foursquare: simpler geometric patterns and beveled glass
• Craftsman and Arts and Crafts: straight lines, earthy colors and nature motifs
• Tudor: diamond leaded patterns and clear textured glass
• Mid-Century: bold geometry and textured glass

How to Make New Glass Look Right

Glass selection matters most: texture and color help new pieces sit comfortably beside old ones. Lead line patterns should follow the era. Steve combines copper foil with leaded glass, designs with you and builds every piece custom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I repair or replace stained glass in my historic home?

Repair original glass when you can, since it can't be replaced exactly and adds to the home's character.

Can new stained glass match my home's era?

Yes. Glass selection, colors and lead patterns can be chosen to suit the period of the house.

Can you build a new piece for an empty historic frame?

Yes. Steve can design a new panel for the original frame.

Talk About Your Historic Home

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 windows gallery for ideas.

Stairwell Stained Glass Windows: Light for the Tallest Wall

Quick answer: A stairwell stained glass window turns the tallest wall in your home into a feature, adding color and privacy while keeping the stairs bright. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, designs stairwell and landing windows for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about yours.

Why a Stairwell Stained Glass Window Works So Well

Stairwell windows are often large, tall and seen from several angles as you climb. Many face a neighbor's house, so tall window privacy matters, but you don't want to cover the window with blinds. Stained glass gives you privacy and a focal point at the same time.

Staircase Window Ideas

• Trees and branches that rise with the stairs
• Colorado landscapes with layered mountains
• Flowing botanicals that suit tall, narrow openings
• Geometric and modern patterns for contemporary homes
• Clear and textured glass for privacy with a light touch
• Arched and round windows shaped to the opening

Landing Window Stained Glass: Design Considerations

Viewing Angles

A stairwell window is seen from below, beside and above as you move. Strong overall shapes read well from every angle.

Scale

Big openings need bold designs. Small details can get lost on a tall wall.

Privacy Where It Counts

Use denser, textured glass where the view is most exposed and clearer glass where it isn't.

Morning and Evening Light

Which way the window faces shapes how the colors glow through the day.

Installation Height

Tall openings need careful measuring. Larger panels may need to be built in sections with proper support, and work at height calls for safe access. Steve will talk through what your opening needs.

Steve's Approach

Steve designs with you, starting with your home's style and how the stairwell is used. His signature technique combines copper foil with leaded glass for a painted look, and every piece is custom. See examples in the windows gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What designs work best for a stairwell stained glass window?

Bold, vertical designs like trees, landscapes and flowing botanicals suit tall stairwell openings well.

Can a stained glass panel be added to my existing stairwell window?

Often, yes. A custom panel can be built to fit the existing opening.

Will a stairwell stained glass window make my stairs darker?

Lighter and textured glass keeps the stairwell bright, while deeper colors add drama.

Brighten Your Stairwell

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 stained glass gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass Kitchen Window Ideas Above the Sink

Quick answer: A stained glass kitchen window above the sink adds privacy, color and light to the room you use most. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's custom studio in Thornton, CO, designs kitchen glass for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your window.

Why the Window Above the Kitchen Sink?

The window above the kitchen sink is the one you look at most. It often faces a neighbor or the street, so kitchen window privacy matters, but you still want the light. Stained glass handles both.

Stained Glass Kitchen Window Design Ideas

• Clear leaded diamonds for a classic, cottage look
• Botanical borders that frame a clear center
• Herbs, fruit and vegetables for a playful kitchen theme
• Birds and garden scenes
• Geometric and modern patterns for clean kitchens
• Colorado scenes with mountains or aspens
• Transom accents above an existing window

Practical Kitchen Concerns

Steam and Splashes

Kitchens get steam and splashes, so a well-built panel and a gentle wipe-down with a soft cloth go a long way.

Sun Exposure

A sunny kitchen window shows off color beautifully. Think about which way it faces when choosing glass.

Privacy at Night

With the lights on inside, clear glass is a window into your kitchen. Textured glass keeps the view blurred after dark.

Window Operation

If the window opens, the design should account for how it works.

Coordinating Your Kitchen Stained Glass in Denver Homes

Match the window to glass cabinet doors or a pantry door insert, and consider how your light fixtures look against the glass. See examples in the fireplace and cabinets gallery.

How Steve Designs Kitchen Glass

Steve starts with how you use the space: whether you cook daily, how much sun the window gets, and what you see outside. Then he designs with you, sharing sketches until it feels right. His signature technique combines copper foil with leaded glass for a painted look, and every piece is custom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stained glass go in a kitchen window?

Yes. A well-built panel works well above the sink and adds privacy without blocking light.

How do I clean a stained glass kitchen window?

Wipe it gently with a soft cloth and mild cleaner, and avoid abrasive pads.

Can my kitchen window match my cabinets?

Yes. Steve can design window glass to coordinate with cabinet inserts or a pantry door.

Plan Your Kitchen Window

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 windows gallery for ideas.

How Long Does Stained Glass Last? Lifespan and Care

Quick answer: Stained glass can last a long time, often for generations, because the glass itself is very durable and what wears out over time is the lead, solder, cement and frame that hold it. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, builds and repairs stained glass for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 if your glass is showing its age.

How Long Does Stained Glass Last? The Glass Is the Easy Part

Medieval windows still exist, which says a lot about glass durability. The stained glass lifespan really depends on its support system. Many preservation sources describe lead came lasting roughly a century under good conditions, and less in harsh exposure, before a panel needs re-leading.

What Wears First

• Lead came slowly fatigues and stretches
• Solder joints can crack
• Cement and putty dry out and loosen
• Reinforcement bars can pull away
• Frames can rot, warp or shift

What Affects Lifespan in Colorado

Strong sun, big temperature swings, wind and hail all put stress on a panel. Construction quality matters too: good glass, careful soldering and proper reinforcement help a piece hold up.

Signs It Needs Attention

Look for bowing or bulging, rattling glass, cracked pieces, gaps letting in light or drafts, loose or crumbling putty, and lead that looks brittle or pulled apart.

When to Relead Stained Glass

Small problems like a cracked piece or a broken joint can often be fixed with a spot repair. When the lead has failed across the panel, re-leading is usually the better choice: the panel is taken apart, cleaned and rebuilt with new lead. Copper foil pieces age differently and are usually repaired joint by joint.

A Simple Care Schedule

Every few months, dust and wipe gently with a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Once a year, look closely for bowing, cracks and loose putty. As needed, call a professional for anything structural.

Steve combines copper foil with leaded glass and builds every piece with care. See work in the windows gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does stained glass need re-leading?

Re-leading is usually needed when the lead has weakened across the panel, shown by bowing, rattling or widespread gaps.

Does stained glass fade?

Quality stained glass gets its color from the glass itself, so it holds its color well over time.

How can I make my stained glass last longer?

Clean it gently, check it once a year and fix small problems before they spread.

Keep Your Glass Going

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 stained glass gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass Fireplace Screens: Beauty and Safety

Quick answer: A stained glass fireplace screen is a decorative art glass panel, often in a sturdy frame, that sits in front of the hearth to add color and light to the room. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, designs custom fireplace screens sized to your fireplace for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your hearth.

Why a Stained Glass Fireplace Screen?

The fireplace is often the focal point of a room, but a plain screen does little for it. An art glass fireplace screen gives the hearth color when the fire is out and a warm glow when it's lit.

Beauty and Safety Together

Placement Matters

Where and how a screen sits relative to the firebox makes a difference. Talk through your fireplace type and how you use it so the screen is placed sensibly.

A Sturdy Frame

A well-built frame keeps the screen stable and protects the glass edges.

Use Common Sense

Follow your fireplace manufacturer's guidance, never leave a fire unattended, and ask if you're unsure how a screen should be used with your fireplace.

Design Ideas

• Nature themes: trees, birds, mountains and wildflowers
• Grapes and vines in rich purples and greens
• Arts and Crafts and geometric patterns
• Fire-inspired colors: ambers, reds and golds
• Family crests and initials
• Three-panel and arched screens shaped to the opening

Steve combines copper foil with leaded glass, so detailed designs can look almost painted while the lead adds strength.

Custom Fireplace Screen vs. Catalog

A custom fireplace screen is built to your opening, so it fits properly instead of overhanging or leaving gaps. You also choose the glass quality, the craftsmanship and a design that suits your room rather than a generic pattern.

Coordinating With the Room

A fireplace glass panel can match cabinet inserts or built-ins on either side of the hearth, or echo a transom or window nearby. See examples in the fireplace and cabinets gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make a fireplace screen in a custom size?

Yes. Every screen is built to the measurements of your fireplace opening.

What designs work best for fireplace screens?

Nature themes, grapes and vines, geometric patterns and fire-inspired colors are all popular.

Does a stained glass screen look good when the fire is out?

Yes. Room light passing through and reflecting off the glass keeps it colorful even when the fireplace is cold.

Design Your Fireplace Screen

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 fireplace and cabinets gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass in Brighton, CO: Custom Glass for Your Home

Quick answer: For stained glass in Brighton, CO, The Glass Master is a custom studio in nearby Thornton, where owner Steve Downing designs door inserts, sidelights, windows, cabinet glass and repairs for Brighton homes and the wider Denver metro. Every piece is designed with the homeowner. Call (303) 457-1886 to start your project.

Custom Brighton Stained Glass

Brighton is northeast of the Thornton studio, with a mix of growing neighborhoods, farmhouse-style homes and older houses. Custom stained glass in Brighton can add light and privacy and make builder-grade glass feel personal.

Popular Projects for Stained Glass in Brighton, CO

Front Door Inserts

Brighton door inserts are a favorite. A door conversion adds decorative glass to your existing door, typically installed in just over an hour.

Sidelights and Transoms

Coordinated entry glass brightens the foyer while adding privacy.

Bathroom Windows

Textured and stained glass give privacy without blinds.

Kitchen Cabinets, Pantry Doors and Fireplace Screens

Glass inserts and screens bring color into living spaces.

Repairs

Steve also repairs and restores existing stained glass.

Design Ideas for Brighton Homes

• Country and farmhouse: simple patterns, clear textures and soft color
• Clean and contemporary: geometric lines for newer builds
• Classic beveled: sparkle that suits almost any style
• Colorado landscapes: mountains, wheat, wildflowers and big skies

Why Homeowners Choose The Glass Master

Every piece is custom, and you're part of the design. Steve's signature technique combines copper foil with leaded glass for a painted look, and he's known for quality, transparency and heartfelt service. See examples in the doors gallery.

Getting Started From Brighton

It helps to know what you'd like the glass to do. Some Brighton homeowners want more privacy at the front door, some want to brighten a dark entry, and others want to replace plain builder glass with something that feels like theirs. Send photos of the opening, rough measurements and any ideas you have. Steve will talk through what the project involves before any work begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you serve Brighton, CO?

Yes. Brighton is a short drive northeast of the Thornton studio.

Can you add a glass insert to my existing front door?

Yes. A door conversion adds a decorative insert for a fraction of the cost of a new decorative glass front door.

Do you do farmhouse or rustic designs?

Yes. Simple patterns, textured glass and soft color suit farmhouse-style homes well.

Start Your Brighton Project

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 full stained glass gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass Window Replacement: Bringing Empty Frames Back

Quick answer: Stained glass window replacement means building a new stained glass panel for an existing opening, often keeping the original frame, when the old glass is missing, damaged beyond repair or simply not what you want. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, salvages old frames and designs replacement stained glass for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your frame.

The Empty Frame Problem

Steve gets asked at least ten times a year whether there's any way to salvage a window frame where an old stained glass used to be. Maybe a previous owner took the glass, or it broke and was replaced with plain glass or plywood. The frame is still there, a reminder of what the house once had. Usually, something beautiful can go back in.

Stained Glass Window Replacement or Repair?

Repair makes sense when the original glass is mostly intact, damage is limited, or the piece has historic or sentimental value. It's time to replace a stained glass window when the glass is gone or mostly broken, the opening holds plain glass or a board, or repair would take more effort than building new. Steve will tell you honestly which way he'd lean.

How Salvaging an Old Frame Works

1. Evaluate the frame. Is the wood solid, and is the opening square?
2. Measure precisely. Arches, ovals and settled frames need careful measuring.
3. Design the new piece. You're an integral part of the design, whether you want something true to the house's age or something new.
4. Build in the studio using Steve's copper foil and leaded technique for detail and strength.
5. Install the new stained glass in the old frame.

Design Ideas for Missing Stained Glass

• Recreate the era: jewel borders, beveled centers, diamonds and soft florals
• Match other windows that still have original glass
• Go personal with a family crest, initial or favorite flower
• Go modern: a clean geometric piece in a historic frame can look striking

If the original glass broke, save every piece. Fragments can help inspire or color-match a new design.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put new stained glass in my existing window frame?

Often, yes. If the frame is sound, a new custom panel can be built to fit it.

What if my old frame is an unusual shape?

Arches, ovals and irregular openings can all be measured and fitted with a custom piece.

Can the new window look like the original?

Steve can design a piece in the style of the original, especially with photos or fragments to work from.

Bring Your Frame Back to Life

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. See examples in the windows gallery.

Stained Glass in Arvada: Ideas for Older and Newer Homes

Quick answer: For stained glass in Arvada, The Glass Master is a custom studio in nearby Thornton, CO, where owner Steve Downing repairs older windows and designs new door inserts, sidelights and windows for Arvada homes and the wider Denver metro. Every piece is designed with the homeowner. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your project.

Arvada Stained Glass for Old and New Homes

Arvada has historic streets around Olde Town and plenty of newer neighborhoods. That mix means Arvada stained glass projects range from repairing original windows to adding custom glass to a newer build.

Stained Glass Ideas for Older Arvada Homes

Repair and Restoration

Original stained glass with cracked pieces or sagging lead can often be repaired or releaded.

Bringing Empty Frames Back

Many older homes have a frame where stained glass used to be. Steve can design a new piece to fit it.

Period-Style Designs

Jewel borders, beveled centers and soft florals suit Olde Town Arvada homes and their glass.

Transoms and Half-Round Windows

Curved and high openings are natural places for art glass.

Stained Glass Ideas for Newer Arvada Homes

Front Door Inserts

A door conversion adds decorative Arvada door glass to the door you already have, typically installed in just over an hour.

Sidelights, Bathrooms and Stairwells

Textured and stained glass add privacy where homes sit close together.

Modern Designs

Geometric lines and clear textures suit contemporary builds.

How Steve Works

You're part of the design from the first conversation. Steve's signature technique combines copper foil with leaded glass for a painted look, and he'll give you honest guidance on whether to repair, restore or start fresh.

Getting Started

Send a few photos of the opening or the existing glass, rough measurements and any ideas you have. For repairs, close-ups of the damage help Steve understand what the piece needs. For new work, inspiration photos or a favorite color are a great place to begin, and the design comes together from there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you work with homeowners in Arvada?

Yes. Arvada is part of the Denver metro area Steve serves from his Thornton studio.

Can you put new stained glass in an old frame?

Often, yes. If the frame is sound, a custom panel can be built to fit it.

Do you design modern stained glass too?

Yes. Steve designs everything from period-style windows to clean, modern pieces.

Start Your Arvada Project

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 windows gallery and full stained glass gallery.

Stained Glass Windows for Homes in Denver: What I've Learned

Quick answer: After designing stained glass windows for homes in Denver since 1989, my biggest lessons are simple: go a little bigger than you think, plan privacy around real sightlines, never skimp on glass quality and design the piece together. I'm Steve Downing, owner of The Glass Master in Thornton, CO, and every window I build is custom-made for one home in the Denver metro. Call me at (303) 457-1886.

Lessons From Putting Stained Glass Windows in Denver Homes

Most of my best lessons came from listening to clients, before and after a piece was installed. Here are the ones I share most often about residential stained glass in Denver.

Lesson 1: Go a Little Bigger

The regret I hear most is, "I wish I'd made it bigger." Glass almost always looks smaller once it's in the wall, surrounded by trim and furniture. When we plan, I often suggest considering a size around 20 percent larger than your first instinct. It doesn't always make sense, but it's worth thinking about.

Lesson 2: Plan Privacy Around Real Sightlines

Homes in newer neighborhoods in Thornton, Brighton and Broomfield are often close together. Rather than making a whole window opaque, I plan around where people actually look in: clear spots where you want a view, textured or colored glass where you need privacy.

Lesson 3: Glass Quality Matters

When someone describes a disappointing stained glass experience, it usually comes down to poor craftsmanship or poor glass. Cheap glass looks flat and never glows. I select and blend glass carefully, because it's the one thing you can't fix later.

Lesson 4: The Details Make It Yours

A favorite flower in a corner, a color pulled from a rug, an initial in a border. Those small home stained glass ideas are often what clients talk about most.

Lesson 5: Light Changes Everything

Colorado sun moves across your home all day. A west window glows in the evening, and a north window gives soft, even light. I factor direction and season into every color choice.

Lesson 6: Design It Together

This goes back to my years as an executive chef at one of Denver's largest catering companies: the best events came from understanding what the host wanted. I believe the client is an integral part of the design, and my proudest windows came from real back-and-forth.

Where Stained Glass for Houses Works Best

Entryways, bathrooms, stairwells, living rooms with arched windows and kitchens are where I see these lessons most. Old frames where stained glass used to be also deserve a second chance; see the windows gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rooms are best for stained glass windows?

Entries, bathrooms, stairwells and living rooms are popular, but any window where you want privacy, color or a focal point can work.

Can stained glass work in a newer Denver home?

Absolutely. Designs with clean lines and clear textures look great in new builds.

Do you design every window from scratch?

Yes. Every piece is custom and designed with the homeowner.

Let's Plan Your Window

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 me at (303) 457-1886, 7am to 5pm daily, or send a message. Read more about me or browse the home gallery.

Stained Glass in Broomfield: Windows, Doors and Inserts

Quick answer: For stained glass in Broomfield, The Glass Master, owned by Steve Downing, is a custom studio in nearby Thornton, CO, that designs front door inserts, sidelights, transoms, windows and cabinet glass for Broomfield homes and the rest of the Denver metro. Every piece is designed with the homeowner. Call (303) 457-1886 to get started.

Custom Broomfield Stained Glass for a Growing Community

Broomfield has a mix of established neighborhoods and newer homes, and many came with plain, builder-grade glass. Custom stained glass in Broomfield, CO, is a way to make a home feel like yours.

Project Types for Stained Glass in Broomfield

Broomfield Door Glass

A door conversion adds a decorative insert to your existing front door, typically installed in just over an hour.

Sidelights and Transoms

Custom sidelights and transoms bring light and privacy to the entry. See the sidelights gallery.

Windows

Bathroom, stairwell and accent windows in stained, leaded or beveled glass.

Cabinets, Fireplace Screens and Wine Rooms

Inserts and screens add color to kitchens, bars and living rooms.

Design Ideas That Suit Broomfield

• Clean and contemporary: geometric lines and textured clear glass
• Clear beveled elegance that sparkles in Colorado sun
• Colorado inspired: mountains, aspens and wildflowers
• Personal touches: an initial, a favorite flower or a meaningful color

What Sets The Glass Master Apart

Every piece is custom, and you help design it. Steve's signature technique combines copper foil with leaded glass for a painted look. He's known for quality, transparency and heartfelt service, and many clients come back for another piece.

Planning Tips

Photograph the opening, take rough measurements, and note how much privacy you need. If you're updating the entry, plan door glass and sidelights together so they coordinate.

What to Expect When You Call

Steve will ask about the opening, the room, the light and what you have in mind. You don't need a finished idea; many projects start with a photo or a favorite color. From there, the design takes shape together, and you'll know what the project involves before any work begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you serve Broomfield?

Yes. Broomfield is a short drive west of the Thornton studio.

Can you add stained glass to a newer home's builder-grade door?

Yes. A door conversion adds a decorative glass insert to the door you already have.

Can new sidelights match my front door glass?

Yes. Steve can design sidelights to match or complement your door insert.

Start Your Broomfield Project

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 stained glass gallery for ideas.

Stained Glass in Westminster, CO: Ideas for Your Home

Quick answer: For stained glass in Westminster, CO, The Glass Master is a custom studio in neighboring Thornton, owned by artist Steve Downing, that designs door inserts, windows, sidelights and cabinet glass for Westminster homes and the wider Denver metro. Every piece is custom and designed with the homeowner. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your project.

Custom Westminster Stained Glass From Next Door

Westminster sits just west of the Thornton studio, so Westminster stained glass projects are close to home for Steve. Whether you live in an established neighborhood or a newer build, custom glass in Westminster can add light, privacy and character.

Popular Projects for Stained Glass in Westminster, CO

Front Door Inserts

Door inserts in Westminster homes are one of the most popular projects. A door conversion adds decorative glass to your existing door, typically installed in just over an hour.

Sidelights and Transoms

Custom sidelights and transoms brighten the entry while adding privacy.

Bathroom and Stairwell Windows

Textured and stained glass give privacy without blinds and turn a tall stair window into a focal point.

Kitchen Cabinets and Fireplace Screens

Glass inserts and screens bring color into living spaces.

Ideas by Home Style

• Established homes: classic beveled glass, florals and borders suit traditional architecture.
• Newer builds: clean geometric lines and textured clear glass upgrade builder-grade doors and windows.
• Colorado style: mountains, aspens and wildflowers in Steve's copper foil and leaded technique.

How Working With Steve Goes

You're part of the design from the first conversation. Steve combines copper foil with leaded glass, so detailed designs can look almost painted. And you get straight answers about what your project involves.

Why Westminster Homeowners Add Stained Glass

Privacy Without Blinds

Textured and stained glass blur the view from the street or a close neighbor while keeping rooms bright.

Light Where You Need It

A dark entry or hallway can come alive with a sidelight, transom or door insert that lets daylight in.

A Home That Stands Out

Custom glass gives a house character that builder-grade glass never will.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you work with homeowners in Westminster, CO?

Yes. Westminster is a short drive from the Thornton studio, and it's one of the areas Steve serves most.

Can you add stained glass to my existing front door?

Yes. A door conversion adds a decorative insert to your existing door for a fraction of the cost of a new decorative glass front door.

Do you repair stained glass as well?

Yes. Steve repairs and restores existing stained glass in addition to building new pieces.

Bring Custom Glass to Your Westminster Home

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 doors gallery and full stained glass gallery.

Stained Glass Cabinet Doors: Ideas for Denver Kitchens

Quick answer: Stained glass cabinet doors use custom glass inserts, leaded, beveled, textured or colored, set into kitchen or built-in cabinet doors to add color and hide clutter. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, designs stained glass cabinet inserts for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your kitchen.

Why Stained Glass Cabinet Doors Belong in the Kitchen

The kitchen is where people gather, and cabinets take up a lot of its wall space. Swapping a few solid panels for glass breaks up all that wood, adds light and gives the room a custom feel.

Existing Doors vs. New Doors

Adding Glass to Existing Cabinet Doors

Many cabinet doors with a center panel can take a glass insert, depending on how they're built. It's a way to refresh the kitchen without replacing cabinets.

Inserts for New Cabinets

If you're remodeling, ordering cabinet doors made for glass lets you plan kitchen cabinet glass inserts from the start.

Cabinet Door Ideas

• Leaded glass cabinet doors in clear glass for a classic look
• Textured glass to soften the view of dishes and clutter
• Beveled accents for sparkle under the lights
• A touch of color in a border or a few jewels
• Full stained glass designs, florals or landscapes, in Steve's copper foil and leaded style
• Modern lines in simple geometric patterns

Where to Use Glass Cabinet Doors

Upper kitchen cabinets, butler's pantries, bar cabinets, built-ins beside a fireplace and bathroom vanities all work well.

Planning Tips

Choose which doors get glass; a few accent doors can look better than all of them. Think about lighting, since in-cabinet lights make glass glow at night. Coordinate with the room's colors and any other stained glass in the house.

Steve designs every piece with the homeowner and builds it in his studio, so each insert fits the door it's made for. See examples in the fireplace and cabinets gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put stained glass in my existing cabinet doors?

Often, yes, depending on how the doors are built. Photos and measurements help Steve tell you what's possible.

Will glass cabinet doors show my clutter?

Not if you choose textured or patterned glass, which softens the view of what's inside.

Can cabinet glass match other stained glass in my home?

Yes. Steve can design cabinet inserts to coordinate with door glass, windows or other pieces.

Update Your Kitchen

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 fireplace and cabinets gallery for ideas.

My Custom Stained Glass Design Process, Step by Step

Quick answer: My custom stained glass design process has six steps: a first conversation, understanding the space, sketching the design together, choosing the glass, building the piece in my studio and installation. I'm Steve Downing, owner of The Glass Master in Thornton, CO, and I work with homeowners across the Denver metro. Call me at (303) 457-1886 to start.

Why My Custom Stained Glass Design Process Starts With You

When I left my career as an executive chef and founded The Glass Master in 1989, I brought one lesson from the kitchen: the best results come from listening to the people you're creating for. A beautiful dish the host didn't want isn't a success, and the same goes for glass.

The client is an integral part of the design. You know your home and how you live in it. I know glass, light and structure. Working with a stained glass artist should bring those together.

Step 1: The First Conversation

You call or send a message about what you're thinking: a door conversion, a bathroom window, sidelights, cabinet inserts or something different. You don't need a finished idea. Photos of the space and rough measurements help.

Step 2: Understanding the Space

Which way does the opening face? How much privacy do you need? What's the style of the house, and what colors are in the room? I've always been interested in architecture and natural light, and these answers shape the design more than anything.

Step 3: Sketching the Custom Stained Glass Design Together

I put ideas on paper and we adjust until it's right. I tell almost everyone two things: glass often looks smaller once installed, so consider going a bit larger, and think about the small details, like an initial or a favorite flower, that make a piece personal.

Step 4: Choosing the Glass

I select and blend colored and textured glass for each piece. Glass quality is one of the biggest differences between a window you love for decades and one that disappoints.

Step 5: Building the Piece

I build it in my studio just north of Denver, combining copper foil for fine lines with leaded glass for strength, so a window can look almost painted. Every stained glass commission is custom; nothing comes off a shelf.

Step 6: Installation

For door conversions, an insert typically goes in in just over an hour. For other pieces, we talk through what your opening needs.

Plenty of clients have come back to me for another piece, and I think this transparent process is a big reason why. It's the same process I use for every custom stained glass project in Denver and the north metro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a design idea before contacting you?

No. Many projects start with a feeling or a few photos, and we build the design together.

Can I make changes to the design?

Yes. Adjusting the sketch until it feels right is part of the process.

What should I send to get started?

Photos of the space, rough measurements and any inspiration images you have.

Start Your Design

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 me at (303) 457-1886, 7am to 5pm daily, or send a message. Read more about me and see finished work in the stained glass gallery.

Beveled Glass Windows in Denver: How They Catch the Light

Quick answer: Beveled glass windows in Denver homes use pieces of glass with angled, polished edges that act like prisms, scattering sunlight into rainbows while softening the view for privacy. The Glass Master, owned by Steve Downing in Thornton, CO, designs custom beveled windows and door glass for homeowners across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to plan a design.

What Is Beveled Glass?

Beveled glass is thick glass with its edges ground and polished at an angle. When many beveled pieces are joined with lead came, the result is a window that sparkles from every angle. Beveled glass can be all clear or combined with color.

How Beveled Glass Windows Catch Denver's Light

The Prism Effect

Each angled edge bends light, throwing small rainbows across walls and floors. Colorado's strong, bright sun makes the effect especially lively.

Privacy Without Darkness

The angles and lead lines break up the view, so clear beveled windows offer some privacy while letting in nearly all the light.

Sparkle From Every Angle

As you move through a room or the sun moves across the sky, the window keeps changing.

Where Beveled Glass Shines

• Entry doors and sidelights: a beveled glass front door is a classic, welcoming look.
• Transoms: bevels catch light high above a door or window.
• Living rooms and stairwells: large openings get the most sun and the most sparkle.
• Angled and bay windows: several faces mean light hits at many angles.
• Cabinets and fireplace screens: smaller pieces bring the effect indoors.

Design Options

All-Clear Beveled

Clear beveled designs with a central motif are timeless and suit almost any home.

Beveled With Color

A few colored accents or jewels warm up a clear design.

Beveled Stained Glass

Bevels can frame a full stained glass design. Steve often combines beveled glass with copper foil and leaded work so detailed areas look almost painted.

Planning a Custom Beveled Window

Measure the opening, note which way it faces and how much privacy you need, and gather a few styles you like. Steve designs every piece with the homeowner, so the pattern fits your home. For a front door, a door conversion can add beveled glass to your existing door.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between beveled glass and stained glass?

Beveled glass refers to thick glass with angled, polished edges, often clear, while stained glass usually refers to colored glass. The two are often combined.

Do beveled windows provide privacy?

They provide some privacy by breaking up the view, and textured glass can be added where more is needed.

Can beveled glass be used in doors?

Yes. Beveled door glass and sidelights are among the most popular uses.

Add Some Sparkle

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 windows gallery for beveled designs.

Stained Glass Entryway Ideas for Denver Homes

Quick answer: A stained glass entryway combines a door insert, sidelights and a transom into one custom design that brightens the foyer and adds privacy at the front door. The Glass Master, Steve Downing's studio in Thornton, CO, designs entry glass for homes across the Denver metro, including conversions of the door you already have. Call (303) 457-1886 to talk about your entry.

The Three Parts of a Stained Glass Entryway

The Door Insert

The door glass is the centerpiece. If your door is solid, a door conversion can add a decorative insert to it, typically installed in just over an hour.

Sidelights

The narrow windows beside the door bring in light. Entry door sidelights and transom glass are where privacy matters most, since they face the porch.

The Transom

The window above the door frames the whole entry and catches light high up.

Stained Glass Entryway Ideas

Classic Clear Beveled

Clear beveled glass sparkles in the sun and suits almost any home style.

Color Accents

A clear or textured field with a colored border or a few jewels adds personality without darkening the foyer.

Floral and Nature Designs

Steve's copper foil and leaded technique lets florals and landscapes look almost painted.

Modern and Geometric

Clean lines and textured clear glass suit contemporary entries.

Wrought Iron Inserts

Glass paired with wrought iron gives a bold, architectural look.

Planning the Whole Entry

These front entry glass ideas work best when you plan them together:

• Start with what you have. Note which openings exist and what condition the glass is in.
• Think about privacy levels. Sidelights may need more texture than a high transom.
• Coordinate, don't copy. The pieces should feel related, not identical.
• Go a little bigger where you can; glass often looks smaller once installed.

Every design is built around you. Steve works with each homeowner on the design, so the entry reflects your home rather than a catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add stained glass to my existing front door?

Yes. A door conversion adds a decorative insert to your existing door for a fraction of the cost of a new decorative glass front door.

Do my sidelights and door glass have to match?

No. They should coordinate, but many of the best entries use related designs rather than identical ones.

Will a stained glass entry make my foyer darker?

Not if it's designed for light. Clear, beveled and textured glass keep the entry bright while adding privacy.

Design Your Entry

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 doors gallery and sidelights gallery for ideas.

Custom Stained Glass Windows in Denver: Planning Your Design

Quick answer: Custom stained glass windows in Denver are designed and built for one specific opening and one homeowner, from the pattern and colors to how the glass handles light and privacy. At The Glass Master in Thornton, CO, owner Steve Downing designs every window together with the client and builds it in his studio for homes across the Denver metro. Call (303) 457-1886 to start planning.

How the Custom Stained Glass Design Process Works

It Starts With You

Every project begins with a conversation about the room, the light, the view and what you love. Photos, sketches or a favorite color are all good starting points, but you don't need a finished idea.

Thinking About the Light

Steve considers which way the window faces, how much privacy you need and how the colors will look at different times of day.

Choosing the Glass

Clear, textured, beveled and colored glass each behave differently. Choosing glass is a big part of the design.

Building the Piece

Steve combines copper foil with leaded glass, so fine details can look almost painted while the lead adds strength. Every piece is made-to-order stained glass, built for your opening.

Stained Glass Window Design Ideas That Fit Denver Homes

• Colorado landscapes: mountains, aspens, wildflowers and big skies
• Traditional and Victorian: florals, borders and jewel accents for older homes
• Modern and clean: geometric lines and clear textured glass
• Personal and heirloom: family crests, initials or a meaningful symbol

Where Custom Stained Glass Windows Make the Biggest Impact in Denver Homes

Entry sidelights and transoms, bathroom windows, stairwell landings and windows that face a neighbor are the spots where custom glass changes a room the most.

Tips Before You Start

• Measure the opening and photograph it with the surrounding wall.
• Note which direction it faces and how private it needs to be.
• Collect a few images of styles you like.
• Consider going a little bigger; people rarely regret it.
• Share your budget early so the design fits it.

Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Panels

Ready-made panels come in standard sizes and generic designs. Custom stained glass design means the piece fits the opening exactly and reflects your home and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a design in mind already?

No. Many clients start with only a feeling or a color, and the design takes shape through conversation with Steve.

Can you make a stained glass window for an existing opening?

Yes. Custom windows are built to the measurements of your existing opening.

Can stained glass windows be modern?

Absolutely. Geometric designs and clear textured glass suit contemporary homes well.

Start Your Custom Window

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 windows gallery and read about Steve.