Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About My Stained Glass Work
Q: What types of stained glass do you make? A: I create both traditional leaded panels and copper foil (Tiffany-style) pieces. I also offer hand-painted glass details that are kiln-fired for permanence, as well as architectural and free-standing glass panels. Q: Do you only make religious stained glass? A: Not at all. While many historical techniques come from church art, I create both secular and sacred work—transoms, sidelights, entry panels, abstract pieces, and more. Q: Can you match or restore existing stained glass? A: Yes, when possible, I offer matching and selective restoration using period-appropriate materials and techniques. I also work with homeowners on historically sensitive updates.
Artistic Services
Q: Do you offer both traditional and modern stained glass styles? A: Yes. I design and build stained glass using both traditional methods (like lead came and copper foil) and contemporary techniques. Each project is tailored to the architecture and client vision. Q: Do you paint your glass? A: Yes. I use traditional vitreous paints for details and shading. These are kiln-fired in my studio to permanently fuse the artwork to the glass.
Pricing Your Stained Glass Project
Q: How are stained glass projects priced? A: I price stained glass commissions primarily by square footage, beginning at $175 per square foot for standard designs. From there, pricing adjusts based on piece count, complexity, and material selection. Designs with many small pieces, detailed curves, overlays, or painted/kiln-fired elements require more cutting and hand-work, and are priced accordingly. Your final estimate is influenced by: * Size (total square footage) * Number of individual pieces * Complexity of the pattern * Glass type (clear textures, cathedral, opalescent, or premium hand-rolled glass like Youghiogheny or Wissmach) * Border choice (zinc, lead, or reinforced came) For most residential projects, this starting point provides a helpful guideline: * A small 1–2 sq. ft. panel generally begins around $200–$400 * Larger windows or multi-panel designs scale based on size and complexity Every piece is custom-made, so I provide a precise quote after reviewing your project details, measurements, and design direction.
Commissioning a Piece
What You Won’t Find Here
Q: Do you sell stained glass supplies or tools? A: No. Yorkville Stained Glass & Co. is a working studio focused on custom glasswork. I do not sell materials or equipment. Q: Do you offer stained glass classes or workshops? A: No. At this time, I do not offer classes. My focus is on commissioned projects for residential, commercial, and gallery clients.
Q: How do I start a custom stained glass project? A: Start with the Commission Process page. You’ll fill out a brief inquiry form, and we’ll schedule a consultation to discuss your project goals, timeline, and space. Q: How much does stained glass cost? A: Pricing depends on size, complexity, and materials. Most custom panels begin around $500–$800 for smaller pieces and increase with size and detail. Transparent pricing is part of every quote. Q: What is the timeline for a project? A: Most projects take 4–8 weeks from initial consultation to completion, depending on complexity and kiln time. Larger or painted works may take longer.
Design, Installation & Maintenance
Q: Can you install the stained glass panel in my home or building? A: I can coordinate with your contractor or provide framing guidance for permanent installations. I also offer framed panels designed to hang or display without construction. Q: What materials do you use? A: I use high-quality art glass (Youghiogheny, Wissmach, Bullseye), lead came or copper foil, and traditional soldering and cementing methods. Painted work is fired in a kiln for durability. Q: Is stained glass weatherproof? A: Yes, properly cemented leaded panels are weather-resistant and built to last for generations. Exterior pieces may require protective glazing in some applications.
Design Choices
Q: Can I choose the colors and textures? A: Absolutely. I’ll guide you through selecting colors, textures, and types of glass that complement your space and lighting. I can also propose designs based on your style preferences. Q: Do you create abstract or modern stained glass? A: Yes. While my work is grounded in tradition, I enjoy designing both traditional and contemporary pieces—especially those that emphasize geometry, rhythm, and movement.
Studio & Location
Q: Do you have a public studio or showroom? A: My studio is a working space and not open to the public. However, I’m happy to schedule private consultations for serious inquiries. Q: Where are you located? A: The studio is located in York, South Carolina—a historic town with a growing arts community. I serve clients throughout York County and the surrounding region.
Orders, Shipping & Gift Work
Q: Do you ship stained glass panels? A: Yes. Framed panels and smaller works can be securely packed and shipped within the U.S. Shipping costs are calculated based on size, weight, and destination. Q: Do you sell ready-made pieces or only take commissions? A: Most of my work is commissioned, but I occasionally have one-of-a-kind pieces available. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see available work and updates.
Commissioning a Piece
Visiting the Studio
Q: Can I visit the studio? A: Yes. Yorkville Stained Glass & Co. operates as a working studio and is open by appointment only. Visits are scheduled in advance to allow time for consultation, design review, and discussion of materials. And we probably have to clean up!
Q: Where is your studio located? A: Our studio is based in historic York, South Carolina.
Service Area
Q: What areas do you serve? A: We work with clients throughout York County and the greater Charlotte region, including Rock Hill, Clover, Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, Indian Land, Waxhaw, and Ballantyne. Projects outside this area are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Do you work in North Carolina as well as South Carolina? A: Yes. While our studio is located in South Carolina, we regularly work with clients in the Charlotte, NC area, including Waxhaw and Ballantyne.
Q: Do you offer in-home or on-site consultations? A: On-site consultations are available when appropriate, particularly for architectural or installation projects. Most projects begin with an initial consultation by appointment at the studio.
Q: How do I schedule an appointment? A: Appointments can be requested through our website or by contacting the studio directly. Once scheduled, we’ll confirm details and prepare materials in advance of your visit.
Types of Glass Used
Yorkville Stained Glass & Co. uses a range of high-quality art glass, selected for its color, texture, and how it interacts with light. This includes both antique and contemporary glass from leading manufacturers.
Common Glass Types:
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Antique Glass – hand-blown or mouth-blown, often with beautiful irregularities and historic character
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Cathedral Glass – transparent, single-color glass with a smooth or lightly textured surface
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Opalescent Glass – opaque or semi-translucent, often with marbled or swirled coloring
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Flashed Glass – clear base glass coated with a thin layer of color, which can be etched or sandblasted for design effects
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Streaky & Textured Glass – used for movement, abstraction, or diffused light effects
Preferred Manufacturers:
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Youghiogheny Glass (PA) – known for opalescent and streaky glass, especially in the Tiffany tradition
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Wissmach Glass (WV) – broad palette of cathedral and opalescent glass; also offers iridescent and specialty types
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Bullseye Glass (OR) – high-quality fusible glass with vibrant colors and great for kiln work
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Kokomo Opalescent Glass (IN) – one of the oldest U.S. manufacturers, producing historic-style glass
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Saint-Just and Lambert (France & Germany) – traditional antique hand-blown glass with rich historical character
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Lamberts Glass (Germany) – true mouth-blown glass used in conservation and high-end installations
Let me know if you want this section worked into your Commission Process or Studio & Process pages, or formatted as part of a downloadable “Materials Guide” for designers and clients.