Using stained glass to tell visual stories. If you’ve ever stood in front of a stained glass window and felt something — joy, calm, awe, nostalgia — you already know this: glass isn’t just about colour or craftsmanship. It’s about emotion. What makes stained glass so compelling isn’t just how it looks. It’s how it […]
Glass art is one of those hobbies that looks simple… until you realize you’ve slowly acquired a collection of tools that rivals a medieval torturer. When I first started, I thought I could get by with a cheap cutter, a soldering iron from the hardware store, and a dream. Let’s just say that dream cracked […]
When you’ve spent years honing your skills at the workbench, the next natural step is to embrace the art of advanced woodworking. This post is for those who’ve moved beyond basic joints and simple projects and are ready to dive deep into the nuanced techniques that transform ordinary wood into works of art. Today, we’ll […]
Glass fusing gone wrong and the lessons behind the mess Glass fusing is a magical process — you layer up beautiful bits of glass, close the kiln, and wait for the fire to do its thing. But what nobody tells you when you’re starting out is that your kiln will betray you. At least, that’s […]
Woodworking is not merely the act of turning timber into tables or chairs. It is a philosophy—a contemplative pursuit that connects us with nature, tradition, and our inner creativity. In this reflective piece, I explore the deeper meaning behind the craft, revealing how woodworking can be both a meditative art and a medium for self-expression. […]
A lighthearted but informative comparison for newbies When you’re starting out in stained glass, you’re quickly introduced to a very real fork in the creative road: lead came or copper foil? These two techniques are the bedrock of stained glass artistry — and while some folks are firmly in one camp or the other, the […]
The first time I picked up a soldering iron, I was terrified. I’d watched the videos, read the tutorials, even lurked in a couple of stained glass forums. It all looked smooth and effortless. But then it was my turn? Wobble. Burn. Splatter. Curse. Splatter My first solder joint wasn’t just bad—it was bulbous and […]
Introduction Leathercraft is one of those timeless crafts that marries art with utility. Whether you’re a creative beginner or someone dipping a toe into a historic trade, leathercraft welcomes you with open arms. In this post, I’ll help demystify the basics—from the history and cultural backdrop of working with leather to the hands-on techniques you […]
For those of you who have, over time, grown comfortable with the basics of leathercraft, the next frontier is exploring advanced techniques that transform a good piece into a masterpiece. In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of decorative tooling, edge finishing, and bespoke details. These methods demand precision, practice, and a willingness […]
Introduction What does a day in the life of a leather artisan really look like? In this first-person narrative, I invite you into my workshop in the heart of the UK. From the early morning silence to the late evening reflections, step inside a day filled with creativity, challenges, and small triumphs. This immersive account […]