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A variety of glass is used when the artisan creates a stained glass window. Some glass, Art Glass, is created specifically for it's "flaws" to create a more interesting look. Glass that is manufactured is generally smoother on both sides whereas handcrafted and flattened glass can have a smooth side with a wavy or rough side along with bubbles.

You can notice the difference quite well in older homes that pre-date the industrial age that still contain the original glass windows. You'll notice the refracted and varying thickness causes a distortion because the artisan had more primitive tools to work with. (Please note, just because there are flaws, wavy lines, or varying thickness doesn't mean the glass is very old. Many glass manufacturers now cater to the "antique" look)

Sometimes, however, "ordinary" glass used to make stained glass windows might bubble or distort due to the heat of the soldering iron as they are the shatterproofed glass. They contain layers of plastic or laminants on top. This type of glass is not suitable for stained glass projects. If purchasing from a window store or glass shop, ask for pieces of glass that have not been treated.

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12y ago

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