FABRICATION: The modern technique for making stained (leaded) glass is very similar to practices followed during the 11th through 15th centuries in the Gothic Cathedrals of Europe. Some tools have been electrified or plasticized, but the materials and basic technique have remained the same. [

FABRICATION: The modern technique for making stained (leaded) glass is very similar to practices followed during the 11th through 15th centuries in the Gothic Cathedrals of Europe. Some tools have been electrified or plasticized, but the materials and basic technique have remained the same. ["Christ of Wissembourg", ±1060 AD] The first step is the enlargement of design renderings into full-scale cartoons (patterns). Next, glass is cut and connected with lead calme (strips). Lead calme resembles tiny “I-beams” and the glass fits into their grooves. Once a panel has been assembled, all the intersections of lead calme are soldered together (on both sides). Finally, the space between glass and lead are sealed with caulk and the panel is scrubbed clean. These steps are highlighted in the following images.