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About the course

This adult stained glass course is designed for both beginners and experienced learners who want to develop creative and practical glassmaking skills. You will explore traditional and contemporary techniques in a supportive studio environment, working on your own projects at a pace that suits you.

Beginners will be introduced to the copper foil technique and complete a finished A4-sized panel, while continuing students can expand their skills through more advanced methods such as leading, kiln-fired glass painting and fusing. The course offers flexibility, allowing you to build skills over multiple 5-week blocks and develop larger, more ambitious pieces.

Course content

During the course, you will gain hands-on experience in a range of stained glass techniques.

Beginners will learn how to:

  • Design and plan a stained glass project
  • Cut glass safely and accurately
  • Shape glass using pliers and grinders
  • Apply copper foil
  • Solder neatly and effectively
  • Use finishing techniques to complete a piece

Continuing learners may explore:

  • Leaded stained glass techniques
  • Measuring, design development and producing cutline drawings
  • Glass painting, staining and enamelling
  • Fused glass and glass slumping

Larger projects can be developed over multiple courses, allowing you to refine your techniques and create more complex work.

How is the course delivered and assessed?

The course is delivered in a practical workshop setting and includes:

  • Tutor demonstrations
  • One-to-one tuition and support
  • Independent project work in a friendly, creative environment

Beginners are guided step by step, while continuing learners develop personal projects with individual support and advice.

Assessment is informal and ongoing, with regular feedback from the tutor to support your progress.

About the tutor

Ruth Adams is an experienced stained glass artist and educator. She completed her postgraduate studies in glass with distinction at Central Saint Martins and has taught fired stained glass painting at the same institution.

Ruth has over ten years’ experience teaching at the City Literary Institute in Central London and later established the glass department at Stroud College’s Arts School. Now based in Stroud, she continues to practise as a professional artist.

She is a highly respected tutor in the field, known for her enthusiasm and ability to support learners of all levels in developing their skills and creativity.

What do I need to join
  • Applicants must be aged 19 or over at the start of the academic year
  • Suitable for complete beginners as well as continuing and advanced learners
  • No previous experience is required
What can I do next

After completing this course, you can:

  • Enrol on further Stained Glass on Saturday courses to learn advanced techniques such as leading, glass painting and fusing
  • Join other stained glass classes offered throughout the year at the main campus (beginner to advanced levels)
  • Progress to formal qualifications, including:
    • UAL Level 1 Award in Stained Glass
    • UAL Level 2 Award in Stained Glass
  • Take part in specialist workshops such as Easter Fusing workshops, Summer Schools, or Creativity for Wellbeing stained glass mosaic courses

You are encouraged to discuss your progression options with your tutor to plan your next steps.

Additional information
  • Course fees include high-quality materials to produce an A4-sized panel per 5-week course
  • Fusing materials are included up to the value of your materials fee, including kiln firings
  • If you wish to complete larger projects, you should discuss materials and costs with your tutor in advance