STAINED GLASS EXPLAINED
One of the most beautiful variations of glass panes, stained-glass panels can be seen decorating old – and often religious – buildings. While coloured glass is technically stained, ‘stained glass’ usually refers to those which form pictures or patterns. They are believed to have gained their name due to a silver stain which was applied to their outward-facing side. When the glass was heated, this turned golden. To make a stained-glass window, first an artist is required to draw the chosen image. The pre-made sheet of glass is then laid on top of this drawing, and the lines are followed to cut the pane into appropriately sized pieces. Traditionally the colour was then painted onto the glass. These paints were made with ground-up glass and iron filings. Iron filings were often soaked in urine or wine to aid in capturing the light and colour on the window.