Stained Glass - Lead Came 101 – Geometric Panel

Take your stained glass skills beyond copper foil and learn the traditional art of building stained glass with lead came.

In this hands-on, two-session class, you’ll learn the lead came construction process while creating an approximately 11.5" × 5" geometric stained glass panel. Lead came is the traditional method used to construct stained glass windows, transoms, cabinet panels, and larger architectural work.

Rather than wrapping each piece of glass in copper foil, the glass is fitted into channels of lead that create both the structure and the distinctive lines of the finished panel. You’ll learn how to stretch and prepare came, accurately cut and fit lead around your glass, set up a square assembly board, build your panel in sequence, install the perimeter came, and solder the lead joints.

Because glass cutting experience is a prerequisite for this class, your glass must be completely cut and ground before the first class session. After you enroll, we’ll send you the class pattern and preparation instructions. You’ll choose and purchase your own glass, then cut and grind all of the pieces to the provided pattern before arriving for Session 1. That means when class begins, we can get right into leading!

We’ll also explore how lead functions both visually and structurally, why accurate fitting and layout matter, and how the construction techniques used for this small panel translate to larger leaded stained glass projects.

If time allows after your panel is assembled and soldered, we’ll complete the traditional cementing/glazing process together in class. You’ll learn how glazing cement is worked into the lead channels to secure the glass, add rigidity, and finish the panel. If your panel isn't ready for glazing by the end of class, the instructor will demonstrate the complete process and you’ll go home with the supplies and instructions needed to finish your piece on your own.

IMPORTANT — BEFORE YOUR FIRST CLASS

After registering, you will receive the pattern for your project.

Before Session 1, you must:

• Purchase and select your glass

• Cut all glass pieces to the provided pattern

• Grind and fit your pieces

• Bring your completely prepared glass pieces to class

Please do not arrive with uncut glass. Our class time is dedicated to learning lead came construction, and there will not be time during class to complete the glass-cutting portion of the project.

More Details

*Due to the use of lead during soldering, we do not recommend students that are pregnant or breastfeeding take our stained glass classes.

Lead came and other class materials are included. Project glass is purchased separately by the student.

If this class is full sign up for our waitlist on the class registration page to be notified if space opens up. If the dates do not work for you, schedule a private session of this class. 

What to Wear

Please plan to get dirty. Wear close-toed shoes, no loose clothing, and hair tied back for safety in the studio.​

What to Bring

If you have personal protective equipment, please bring it with you. Otherwise, protective gear will be provided as needed.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: Stained Glass 101 or equivalent copper foil stained glass experience.

Students should be comfortable independently cutting and grinding glass before enrolling.

Ages 14+ welcome if accompanied by a parent/guardian. Both need to register and pay.

Cancellation Policy

Refunds, Credits & Transfers

We understand that emergencies happen, so if you are unable to attend your class and you cancel with:

• More than 14 (fourteen) days notice before your class, you may request a full refund or transfer the full amount paid to another class.

• Less than 14 (fourteen) days notice before your class, your payment is non refundable. However you may transfer the amount paid, minus a 15% cancellation fee, to any class within 90 days of request. It is not guaranteed that a comparable class will be offered within 90 days.

• Less than 48 (forty eight) hours before your class begins, your payment is non refundable. It is extremely difficult to fill cancelled spaces with short notice.

• After class start date/time: No credits, refunds or prorating of fees will be given for missed portions or early withdrawals.

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Please send all cancellation and change requests to classes@diycave.com 

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Changes or Cancellations

DIYcave reserves the right to cancel any class, limit class size, change class times or substitute instructors for those listed in the schedule. If a class is canceled, students may choose to receive a full refund or may transfer – with no fee – to another class or workshop. If DIYcave cancels for any reason, all payments can be refunded.Class Waitlist