About me

About my process

I create my stained glass pieces using the Tiffany technique. I love working with this medium that requires several different processes and casts rippling refractions across my hands while I work! I like to add detail with delicate wire work and tiny glass beads. If you’re interested in the process - read on!

First comes the design - and I like to draw out my patterns the old-school way with a pencil and paper. I spent years as a pharmacist writing for health websites and I am so over using computers! I enjoy the traditional, lo-fi approach.

Second comes glass choosing - so many colours, textures and patterns to go at. Depending on the piece, I’ll either order something special or use offcuts from other projects. I keep all my scrap glass and it all gets used one way or another - one of my favourite things to do is invent flowers from my scrap glass.

I trace my patterns onto glass with a sharpie, using a lightbox or pattern cutout where needed. I don’t use stickers in order to minimise the waste I produce. I get as many pieces onto a sheet of glass as possible, again to minimise waste. This involves a lot of thought and careful jigsawing to ensure the patterns in the glass marry up with my intended design while still being able to cut each piece from the glass.

Once cut, I grind the edges of the pieces using a wet grinder to shape and smooth them. Next I apply copper foil tape around the edge of each piece - the most time-consuming stage.

Then comes my favourite part - soldering everything together. Depending on the piece, I’ll either add wirework at this stage or after polishing.

When I’m done, each piece gets a good wash and scrub. Then I’ll apply black or copper patina to the solder if I’m using it. Then a good polish with finishing compound! An arduous task, but vital to give the piece a good shine and prevent it oxidising, especially if I’m leaving the piece silver.

I design and handcraft unique, everlasting stained glass flower stems and landscapes. Much of my work is inspired by the continual shifting beauty of the Peak District right on my doorstep. I’ve been walking, running, climbing, and swimming in this amazing playground for over 25 years. When out for my daily walk or run with my dog, my mind is never far from how to recreate the views, flowers, colours and shapes in glass. I love the way that glass landscapes change their colour and mood depending on the light, mirroring the effects of sun and season on the natural landscapes around us. I love designing bespoke pieces that capture a favourite flower or special view to be kept in a window forever.