Commission Process

There are some pieces that only exist when they are made for a specific person, place, or moment. Commissioned stained glass is a collaboration. Your ideas, memories, and spaces are translated through color, line, and light into a one-of-a-kind work.

The Commissioned Works gallery features a selection of completed projects and serves as an archive of past work. All new commissions, regardless of size or scope, begin with the same collaborative process outlined below.

  • Every commission begins with a conversation.

    You may arrive with a clear idea, such as an ocean wave, a vineyard at sunset, a favorite place, or a piece inspired by a previous artwork. Or you may simply know how you want the finished piece to feel. Calm, luminous, energetic, contemplative.

    In this first step, we talk about:

    • Where the piece will live, such as a window, wall, architectural opening, or sculptural display

    • Color preferences or palettes you are drawn to

    • Themes or imagery that resonate with you

    • Practical considerations including light, privacy, framing, and installation

    From there, I gather reference notes, sketches, and visual ideas to shape the direction of the work.

  • Once the concept begins to take shape, we clarify the practical framework of the project:

    • Approximate size

    • Budget range

    • Timeline, including any important dates such as a gift or installation goal

    Each commission is priced individually based on scale, complexity, glass selection, and technical requirements. After our initial conversation, I will provide an estimated price range and timeline so you can decide how you would like to move forward.

  • With the concept and parameters in place, I create a custom design proposal for your piece. This typically includes:

    • A sketch or digital mockup

    • Notes on color, mood, and visual flow

    • Indication of lead came or copper foil construction, along with any special details

    You will have the opportunity to review the design and request one round of adjustments so we are aligned before fabrication begins.

    Once the design proposal is approved, a deposit and signed commission agreement are required to reserve time in the studio schedule and move the project into production.

  • This is where your piece comes to life in glass.

    Each commission is:

    • Hand-cut from individually selected pieces of art glass

    • Crafted using traditional lead came and or copper foil techniques

    • Soldered, patinated, and finished with attention to both structure and detail

    During fabrication, I am happy to share occasional progress photos if you would like to see the work unfold, or you may choose to wait for the final reveal.

  • When your artwork is complete, you will receive final photos and we will make arrangements for:

    • Pickup or shipping, carefully packaged for transit

    • Simple installation notes when applicable, such as for wall-hung or window-mounted pieces

    • Installation by us if that was chosen as part of the commission process

    Many commissions are designed with integrated hardware or framing so they are ready to display upon arrival

Ready to Begin?

If you are considering a custom stained glass piece, the next step is simple.

Share a few details about your idea, space, and timeline, and I will respond with clarifying questions, an approximate price range, and suggested next steps.