How to Start the Process with River City Glassworks

It all starts with an idea, an inspiration, a need that can only be fulfilled by customized stained glass.

Contact Kathryn by phone or email. I’ll ask a few questions to help clarify your goals, then, if necessary, I’ll arrange a site visit. It is very important for me, as your artist, to get to know you, your colors, your design style, and to have accurate measurements for the new window or panel.

Once I’ve clarified the scope of the project and have some design ideas, I’ll make some concept sketches. I’ll add color to help you visualize how it all works together, then begin the process of tailoring the design to your specifications. You may absolutely love the first concept (yay!) or you may have an idea for improvement. Either way, I’m here to make you happy.

Once we have settled on a design that you love, I’ll provide a timeframe for completion and accept a 50% deposit. When the piece is completed and either delivered or picked up by you, the remainder of the invoice is due.

Do you have any questions? Drop me a line! I’m here to answer any questions you may have.

Helpful Hints:

Step 1 - establish a budget

When establishing a budget, it is helpful to understand some of the costs of stained glass:

• Site visits for measurement and consultation

• Complexity of design

• Inclusion of bevels or other specialized design elements

• Labor involved in building the piece

• Delivery and/or installation

step 2 - choose an artist

Peruse your artist’s online gallery and determine if their designs speak to you. Give them a call or email to establish rapport. It’s important to have a genuine connection with your glass artist! You should feel comfortable asking as many questions as you like, as well as asking for references.

step 3 - design phase

Now the fun begins! Be able to communicate with your artist such factors as:

Function: privacy, view control, home improvement, beauty

Size and shape: square, rectangle, circle, arch. Will the piece be permanently installed or will it hang in front of an existing window?

Style and Complexity: contemporary, traditional, Victorian, mission. Simple or complex.

Budget: How much would you like to spend?

Based on your input, your glass artist will produce scaled drawings for you to review. “Old-school” artists (like River City Glassworks) use paper and colored pencils or watercolors to render their designs. Remember that painted or computer-generated colors are merely representations of the true glass colors. Feel free to express your opinions and request design changes.

step 4 - construction

step 5 - delivery and/or installation

The collaboration between you and your artist is finished, and your vision is realized by the expertise and dedication of a skilled stained glass artisan. It’s an heirloom to be treasured by future generations!