Stained Glass Tools for Beginners

by Ron

I took a stained glass class 25 or so years ago and made a panel. I'm interested in taking stained glass up with an eye to possibly doing stained glass as a retirement hobby or business. The tools seem to have changed A LOT since my first class. What tools (and manufacturers) would you suggest, and is there anything you can tell me about what I should look for in a stained glass class?
Any help is greatly appreciated!

Milly's answer:
Welcome back to the world of stained glass Ron! Yes, stained glass tools have changed over the last 25 years, but it could be worse - you could be in computers...
Have you checked my Stained Glass Tools hub page? On it you'll see links to Stained Glass Kits, part one and two, which will give you a run-down of the thirteen essential tools you need, and also you'll find separate pages on glass cutters, stained glass grinders, soldering irons and other miscellaneous stained glass tools. The pages contain buying advice and information, but if there's anything else you need to know, get in touch.
With regard to stained glass classes, as you've done it before, you might want an intermediate - rather than a beginners - class. Structure is important for learning, so make sure the classes are well planned and organised.
I think designing is what will set you apart from the competition when you start your business, so choose a class that will allow you lots of creative ideas, and avoid those solely working to stained glass patterns.
If you're thinking of learning glass painting techniques too, make sure you find out all about kiln firing schedules and where to source materials and hire glass kilns. Most tutors should be more than willing to give all this information out - and more!
Good luck, and let me know how you get on.

To find out more about how to make stained glass, click here and return to the Everything Stained Glass home page.