Ever since I was a child, I’ve had a love for art. I spent hours drawing, painting, and exploring various creative outlets. But, like many artists, I always struggled with turning my passion into something that could sustain me financially. I never imagined that stained glass, something I’d admired but never considered pursuing seriously, would be the key to launching my art career.
I’ve always been drawn to the beauty and elegance of stained glass—its play with light, color, and texture. However, it wasn’t until I took my first stained glass class at Stained Glass Academy that I realized just how much potential this medium held, both artistically and professionally. Little did I know that this decision would completely change the direction of my life.
Discovering My Passion for Stained Glass
Before I enrolled in Stained Glass Academy, stained glass was something I only admired from a distance. I had no formal training in glasswork, but I was immediately fascinated by its beauty when I began my first class. The thought of creating art that could transform a room through color and light captivated me. As soon as I cut my first piece of glass and put together a small project, I was hooked.
The Academy’s environment was incredibly welcoming. The instructors not only taught the technical aspects of stained glass—cutting, soldering, and foiling—but also encouraged us to explore our creative ideas. I started out with simple projects, like suncatchers and small window panels, but as my confidence grew, so did the complexity of my designs. The hands-on experience was invaluable, and the knowledge I gained from the Academy quickly boosted my confidence.
Turning a Passion into a Business
While I was falling in love with stained glass, I began to entertain the idea of turning it into a full-time career. I had always dreamed of making a living doing something I loved, but the transition from hobbyist to professional felt daunting. That’s when I realized that Stained Glass Academy could help me in ways I hadn’t even imagined.
The Academy not only focuses on teaching stained glass techniques but also provides real-world advice on how to turn your skills into a business. I enrolled in a business-focused class that taught me everything from marketing my work to pricing my pieces, creating a portfolio, and understanding the financial side of running an art business.
The instructors at Stained Glass Academy were incredibly supportive. They helped me refine my style and encouraged me to think about my unique artistic voice. But beyond the technical guidance, they provided crucial business tips—how to network with potential clients, how to approach commission work, and how to navigate the ups and downs of being an artist-entrepreneur.
Finding My Niche: Custom Stained Glass for Homes and Businesses
One of the most important things I learned at Stained Glass Academy was the value of finding my niche. While there’s a lot of competition in the art world, stained glass offers unique opportunities. I decided to focus on custom stained glass pieces for homes and businesses. I began designing custom windows, doors, and even skylights, each one tailored to my client’s vision.
The Academy gave me the tools and knowledge to take on these larger projects with confidence. I began developing relationships with interior designers, architects, and homeowners who were looking for something special. As word spread about my work, I started to see my business grow. The business classes I took at the Academy helped me navigate contracts, set clear expectations with clients, and manage deadlines effectively.
Building a Brand: Expanding My Reach
With the guidance of Stained Glass Academy, I also learned how to market myself and my work. I built a website and started showcasing my projects on social media. The exposure helped me reach a wider audience and attract commissions from people who were passionate about custom glass art. I also began selling smaller pieces online, such as stained glass suncatchers and decorative panels.
What truly set me apart was the sense of personalization I brought to my pieces. Clients appreciated that I was willing to work with them to create something meaningful—whether it was a piece that reflected their personal style or an intricate design for their home that would stand the test of time. The Academy gave me the confidence to go beyond just creating beautiful pieces of art; it taught me how to build a brand and business around my passion.
The Support That Keeps Me Going
Building an art business is no easy feat, but the support I received from Stained Glass Academy has been invaluable. I’ve stayed in touch with many of my fellow students, and we continue to share tips, advice, and inspiration. The community at the Academy is a constant source of motivation and encouragement. I also have access to a network of professionals and instructors who provide advice and mentorship as my business continues to grow.
Now, I’m proud to say that stained glass isn’t just my passion—it’s my career. I’ve taken on projects for private homes, businesses, and public spaces, and I’m constantly looking for new ways to push the boundaries of my work. I’ve found a fulfilling and sustainable career that allows me to create art while also making a living.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, I plan to continue expanding my business and pushing myself creatively. I’ve started to experiment with larger installations and integrating stained glass with other materials like metal and wood. I’m also considering offering classes of my own, sharing the techniques I’ve learned with others who are interested in turning their passion for stained glass into a career.
For anyone who is passionate about stained glass and considering taking the leap into turning it into a business, I highly recommend Stained Glass Academy. The skills, knowledge, and business guidance I received there gave me the foundation I needed to succeed. Whether you’re looking to create art for your own enjoyment or hoping to launch a career, this academy will set you on the right path.