Prices

Sue then produces a number of pencil sketches of her design ideas for the commission. This allows the customer to see a range of ideas, perhaps traditional to modern, or ornately decorative to boldly simplistic. Quite often Sue finds the client likes more than one design, so the end result is another sketch combining the chosen motifs. When the outline sketch is agreed Sue then produces a painted design, which is given to the client with a range of glass samples to check the overall effect, and make glass colour choices where necessary.

On agreement to the final stage design, Sue will then give an estimate of delivery time and start the build process. Stained glass work is painstaking and precise, every piece of glass has to be cut to shape. If the glass is to be painted then the pattern is painted on and fired in a kiln, and this may require over-painting in layers with successive firings to produce the required effect. Each piece of glass is held in place with lead cut to shape and soldered. The glass lights are then sealed with traditional black putty, then the glass and lead is cleaned and polished to a shine.

Sue will then deliver the finished glass panels and will provide instructions on how to fit them. Clients with even meagre DIY knowledge usually fit the windows themselves, or you can also ask a builder or glazier to do the fitting. Garden City Glass will undertake fitting if necessary, but this will be charged at £35.00 per hour plus materials.

While Sue prefers to make at least one initial visit to discuss requirements, the whole process from start to finish can be done remotely using phone, e-mail and the post

Prices and Payment
The cost of glass work is calculated depending upon the complexity of the design, how much painting is involved and whether any specialist glasses are required. Consequently prices vary from approximately £80 per square foot, for example for geometric style Victorian door panels, to £160 per square foot for highly painted pieces.

Sue will produce a detailed written quote after the initial consultation. Payment terms are half on agreement to final stage design, and the remainder on delivery.

How does Garden City Glass Work?
Sue prefers to visit the location for a proposed glass work to assess the character and style and take measurements for windows that are to be fitted into existing frames. She also likes to be able to discuss requirements such as style preferences, favourite colours, or any personal symbolism to be included in the design.