Newbie wanting to start

[bullin82]

So i want to start getting into makeing stained glass, mainly because it looks like a good hobby for me and the wife loves the art work.  The only thing is i see some starter kits and im not sure what i all really need to start up compared to what retailers say i need.  So if anyone can help me out in letting me know what i really need and where i can buy these supplies.  Thank you all in advance.

[Richard Gross]

One good option would be to find a local retailer who offers classes and take the beginner's class. If you start out taking an Intro class, you'll get a good feel for what you need regarding tools and what you can do without.

Not all classes are created equal, but they usually aren't too expensive and they let you get a feel for the craft before you invest a lot of money in tools and glass that you may or may not have any interest in a year down the road.

[Rebecca]

Just be sure when you ask about the class to ask if you are required to buy any tools.  Some retailers do require that you buy tools for your first class.  I think that you should be allowed to use the teacher's tools until you decide that you are going to stay with the craft and until you decide which tools YOU like.

Rebecca

[JRDurr]

First purchase Peter Mollica's book Stained Glass Primer Vol 1. Purchase a decent glass cutter. Remember it is not a trick to become a decent mechanic, but practice. Bum scrap clear glass that your local glazer is throughing out. Again practice. Build the small panel that is included in the book. Then purchase pretty glass and expect to ruin much as you master cutting and glazeing.Another good book, but some what dated is Judson's Stained Glass. Some of the chapters are out dated,but the foundation  is there. Purchase the SGAA's safety manuals and the manuals on design and color. Rebecca is correct many store front practioners teach to sustain their glass habit. Many of the studio movement people of the late 60's and 70's never took classes but workshops from some of the legends of the art. Take art classes. I found that figure drawing and water color to be the most helpful in creating a window.

Good luck.

JRDurr

[electricmonk]

It is a fun and sometimes challenging hobby.
I've got some very basic info. and small projects listed here (hope it's ok to list a website; I'm not selling anything on it):
http://www.stainedglasswork.net/

Have fun

[frothozone]

I am also thinking of starting some stained glass artwork, but there are no good classes here in my locality to help. Now here in this thread I have learned about Peter Mollica's book, and I think I will buy that as the first step.