Two-day Medieval Glass Painting Course
Description
This two day course introduces you to the traditional method of stained glass painting. You will learn how we ‘paint with light’ focussing on the medieval period when stained glass reached its height between 1150-1500AD. You will learn about the designs used and the equipment and tools to make this art. The course will give you an insight into the techniques used during this time and the knowledge to take it further in future. You will be fully guided through the process and given lots of tips, tricks and insight and appreciation of stained-glass window making. This course will give you an insight into the ancient craft of stained-glass construction. Whilst your glass is being fired in the kiln our volunteer Heritage Head Gardener will take you on a tour of our Medieval Garden talking you through the garden development and the plants being grown and why. The course takes place in and around the purpose built oak framed craft barn at Stanwick Lakes which is managed by Rockingham Forest Trust as an environmental charity. Stanwick Lakes is a protected Nature Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance, covering 750 acres of open space with seven miles of paths, a perfect inspiration to crafters and makers. During your lunchtime you can enjoy the onsite cafés and visit the heritage museum or sit by a lake and watch the wildlife. There are two stages to your stained glass painting project: The first is to learn glass painting techniques and firing the glass in the kiln. You will learn tracing and matting and different brushes used to do this. You will also learn about the use of silver stains (which gives the glass a yellow colour when fired). The second is learning to make a basic stained glass panel for the project. You will learn how to cut glass to a design and the techniques of leading, soldering and cementing your piece which you will finish in time to take home. Throughout the course there will be full demonstrations of the processes of constructing a panel at each stage and we will discuss the tools and techniques being used. Your final panel will result in a simple medieval style piece consisting of 5-6 pieces of your glass leaded and painted. This class is suitable for complete beginners and is limited to five participants. About your tutor Your tutor for the course is Jo Turner, a heritage stained glass maker, who has many years of experience making and teaching within the adult community learning environment. Jo also offers half-day glass sun-catcher copper foiling workshops on various dates during the year at Stanwick Lakes. Testimonials "I absolutely loved this course! Jo is an amazing tutor who is able to translate her extensive experience into practical guidance for her students. It’s harder than it looks and Jo was always on hand to lend input or a timely suggestion. Fellow attendees were a joy to share this experience with. I highly recommend this course. Jo has inspired me to further my glasswork skill set and I’m so grateful to have spent this time under her tutelage."
What's included in the price?
Tools, materials and safety equipment are provided. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided free of charge during the course. Food and drinks can be purchased in the café in the visitor centre or bring your own packed lunch. Your car parking is also free of charge on the day of your course. Please note if you are purchasing food from our Cafe, a pre-order form will be available on the morning of the course (a selection of paninis, sandwiches, jacket potatoes etc are available) so we can have your food freshly prepared for you.
Duration
2 days
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
At Stanwick Lakes, we offer a range of Arts & Crafts and Heritage Courses, from watercolour painting classes to blacksmithing and wood-carving workshops. Alongside offering craft courses, Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750 acre nature reserve and countryside attraction located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Wheelchair users
- Hearing impaired
- Limited mobility
- Spooky
- Suitable for beginners
- Father's Day
- Romantic
- Mother's Day
- Christmas
- Easter
- Parking provided
FAQs
Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750 acre nature reserve and countryside attraction located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
We have extensive play areas, open spaces and paths that families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers can explore at leisure. We also have specially considered areas dedicated to nature and its wildlife, as well as the history of the site.
Parking is free for workshop attendees - please give your registration plate details to our reception staff in the Visitor Centre on the day.
Alternatively, you can become a member for just £42.00 per year, giving you free access to all our facilities for a whole year, while supporting Rockingham Forest Trust.