What does Willow Stained Glass Studio do?

Willow Stained Glass Studio is a custom stained glass company who designs, builds and installs custom stained glass windows for commercial, residential and religious buildings (since 1998!). We also repair and restore broken stained glass windows and lampshades. We see lots of damaged windows and lamps that are found in antique shops, auctions or are heirlooms in need of repair. We work directly with architects, home builders, interior designers and home owners to provide  an outstanding product and service during and after the project. We also get many calls for glass repair in sidelights and doors and also stained glass windows in older homes that have ‘bowed’ and are in need of attention; most of which can be repaired ‘on-site’. Both basic and advanced stained glass classes are taught at our downtown studio. We are also very involved in the local arts and business community with some of our smaller works even offered for sale in several retail shops.

What do you mean by ‘restoration‘ and ‘preservation‘?

Stained glass restoration and preservation simply means returning an aged stained glass window to it’s original beauty and strength. We can accomplish this through one or all of the following ways:

re-leading the window (removing the existing lead, which holds the glass pieces together, then replacing it with new lead)

adding structural internal support (if needed)

gentle cleaning of the glass

replacing broken panes of glass

creating a framework for the window to ensure that it hangs safely for many years

How is stained glass installed? Is it only for new homes where it is planned for in advance? Do you have to take out my existing window?

Stained glass can be installed in an interior wall (think of a wall between, say, a large kitchen and living room; a hallway, transom above a door or a cabinet door panel) or it can be in an exterior wall (think of sidelights on either side of the front door, or a staircase landing area). Each application is different, however, it is not necessary to remove the current insulated window. Stained glass panels can be installed over the existing glass in most circumstances. We can help you determine the best means of installation.

How much does it cost?

The cost is determined both by square footage and also ‘per piece’ of glass that needs to be cut for the window. So a window that has, say, 100 pieces of glass will be at a higher price than one of the same square footage with only 20 pieces of glass. As you can see, it is possible to be in control of the costs of your window based on design alone; and we are always considerate of your budget.

                                                               
I don’t really know what I want. What is the process for ordering a custom window?

We understand that ordering custom stained glass is something that you may not have done before; so we like to make sure that you are informed and are at ease with the process. Generally, we’d like to meet with you first at our studio, as there are many photos and books for you to browse through that can help determine what styles you do and, sometimes more importantly, don‘t like. If you have a photo or sketch of something that interests you, that would also be helpful; however, the majority of our past clients were also unsure of what they wanted when they first met with us, too. So after looking through some books, we’ll take notes and ask you lots of questions about color, size and also your budget to determine what will best suit your needs. We can also meet with you at your home to assist with color selection, etc.  Then we’ll provide up to three original watercolor drawings for you along with an estimate for the work. Changes can be made, if necessary, and glass will be selected at this time. After a deposit is paid, we will then begin constructing your piece.

What’s the difference between what Willow Stained Glass offers and what I can find at my local home center?

We are a local company who takes great pride in providing a custom stained glass product that you just cannot find from a catalog of mass-produced work with size and design limitations. You choose from hundreds of glass samples and endless design possibilities created specifically for your environment; and our quality and attention to your needs are second to none.  Our design consultations and portfolio review are always free.

When you’re ready for something different, Willow Stained Glass Studio can help.