Life can get overwhelming sometimes, and I’ve always been someone who needs a creative outlet to unwind. Over the years, I’ve tried my hand at a variety of hobbies—painting, knitting, photography—but nothing truly clicked. That is, until I discovered stained glass.
It all started when I walked past a small stained glass studio while on vacation. The windows caught my eye immediately—the colors, the light, the way the glass seemed to change as the sun hit it. I was captivated. I had seen stained glass in churches and old buildings before, but I never thought about creating it myself. What struck me was the thought that I, too, could learn how to work with this medium and create something beautiful.
I decided to give it a shot, and that’s when I found Stained Glass Academy. Little did I know, this would become my favorite creative hobby and one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
The First Class: A New Beginning
I’ll be honest, I was nervous on the first day. I had no experience with glass cutting or soldering, and the tools seemed a little intimidating. But the moment I stepped into the studio at Stained Glass Academy, all of my worries melted away. The space was bright and welcoming, with glass in every color imaginable, and the instructors were warm, patient, and incredibly encouraging.
Our first class focused on the basics: learning how to safely cut glass, how to choose the right pieces, and how to create simple designs. I remember my hands trembling a little as I picked up the glass cutter, but under the guidance of the instructor, I quickly gained confidence. It was amazing how quickly I learned the basics and how much joy I felt just working with the glass. There was something so meditative about it, so therapeutic. It was like I was in my own little world, focused entirely on creating something from nothing.
The Joy of Creating Something Beautiful
What I love about stained glass is that it’s not just about following instructions—it’s about self-expression. Each piece is a reflection of your creativity. As I continued with the courses at Stained Glass Academy, I started to experiment with different designs and color combinations. I created simple suncatchers at first, but as I gained more confidence, I moved on to more intricate pieces—like decorative panels and even small window designs.
One of the most satisfying moments came when I completed my first stained glass project. It was a small suncatcher with a delicate floral design. I held it up to the light and watched the colors come to life. The sense of accomplishment was incredible. The way the glass caught the sunlight, casting colorful reflections around the room—it was magical. I felt a deep sense of pride, knowing that I had made this beautiful piece with my own hands.
Stained Glass: The Perfect Creative Escape
Stained glass has become more than just a hobby for me—it’s my escape. After a busy day or a stressful week, there’s nothing more peaceful than sitting in the studio and losing myself in the process. There’s something so calming about the rhythm of cutting glass, the quiet focus required to fit each piece together, and the satisfaction of watching a design take shape.
I also love the tactile nature of stained glass. Unlike other hobbies where you might be working on a screen or with paper, stained glass involves physical movement and hands-on engagement. It’s a craft that requires patience and precision, but it also allows for so much creative freedom. You can design a piece that’s entirely your own, choosing from a range of colors, textures, and shapes to create something unique.
The Community: A Place to Grow and Connect
What truly sets Stained Glass Academy apart, though, is the community. Everyone there shares a love for stained glass, and the supportive, collaborative environment makes it easy to learn from one another. I’ve met so many wonderful people—some who are just starting, like me, and others who have been working with stained glass for years. We share ideas, give each other feedback, and cheer each other on as we work through challenges. It’s a place where I feel connected, inspired, and encouraged to keep growing as an artist.
The instructors have also been a huge part of my journey. They are so knowledgeable and always happy to offer advice or show me new techniques. Whether it’s a tip on how to improve my soldering or a suggestion for a new design, I always leave each class feeling motivated to take my next project to the next level.
What’s Next?
Stained glass is a craft I’ve fallen in love with, and I’m excited to continue exploring its possibilities. I’ve already started working on a larger project for my home—an intricate stained glass panel for my front door—and I can’t wait to see how it turns out. What I’ve learned at Stained Glass Academy has given me the skills to bring my ideas to life, and I’m eager to push myself with more complex designs.
If you’re looking for a creative escape or something new to try, I can’t recommend stained glass enough. It’s not just about creating beautiful art—it’s about finding peace, focus, and joy in the process. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, Stained Glass Academy is the perfect place to start your own stained glass journey.