Stained glass is an exquisitely beautiful and timeless art form. From the great cathedrals of the world to a white washed community church in a New England hamlet, or in the gracious mansions of eras gone by, stained glass has made a significant contribution in artistic expression. While it is very possible to purchase new or vintage stained glass in antique stores, art galleries or art shows, there are times when a custom-made piece is the only option.

Perhaps you need a custom-size window built into a wall and you want to block the outside view. Or maybe you are looking for a stained glass lamp shade in a very specialized theme. Seeking the help of a established stained glass artist to create a custom artwork will not only save you hours of searching for just the right piece; a window or other work of stained glass art that is custom made to your specifications may be the only way to find exactly what you want. Here are some tips on finding an artist and working though the details to make your concept a reality.

Step 1 Know precisely you want.

Before you talk to an artist, decide what you want: A lampshade, a window, a wall of stained glass panels to divide an interior space? Decide on dimensions, style and colors. If you've seen photographs online or in magazines that resemble what you have in mind, clip those out. Create a clip file of fabrics or color swatches of other items in the room where your stained glass will reside. Anything from an extra floor tile to a pillow cushion will help convey your ideas to the artist. An inspiration piece, such as a vase or piece of china, that contains the colors and style you have in mind is also helpful.

Step 2 Choose your artist.

This is perhaps the hardest part. Local art galleries, art museums and artists guilds are a good place to start if you wish to work one on one with a local artist. Ask friends and acquaintances who are patrons of the arts in your community. You can search online for artists from any locale. The Internet makes it easier than ever to work long distance with an artist, but you need to feel comfortable about taking this step. Whether you work locally or long-distance, be sure to review sketches, design books and photographs of the artists work, ask for references from previous clients; follow up and actually communicate with these clients to get their feedback about the artist and his or her work.

Step 3 Arrange to meet the artist.

Meeting the artist in person at the project site is the ideal situation since the artist will be able to evaluate the location and make recommendations on materials, etc. If a personal meeting is not possible because of distance, send photographs of the location as well as your dimensions, a description of the sight and surrounding elements, your ideas, colors, etc. by mail or email.

Step 4 Flesh out details of the commission.

For instance, you might want an elaborate design which is easiest to achieve with copper foil construction; but, since the window is going to be exposed to the elements, lead or zinc came construction must be used. You should talk about all materials to be used for came, framing and vase cap; the artist will be able to answer your questions about which materials should be used and why.

This meeting usually ends with an estimate of the projects cost for materials as well as the artists fee. An itemized estimate, receipt for payments made in advance, a projected timeline for the project and potential additional fees or charges should be spelled out in writing and signed by both parties.

Step 5 The artist develops preliminary drawings that lead to the final design.

From your discussions, samples and photographs, the artist will create one or more drawings of the design. Additional meetings between the two of you will result in a final design that the artist will use to create your stained glass artwork.

Step 6 The artist chooses materials and makes recommendations as needed.

Now that the final design is finished, the artist will be able to decide which type of glass will be used. This is not an easy process because the design may require a certain color of glass which may not be easy to obtain. The artist should be able to show you other options; be prepared to make substitutions and compromises when necessary. If the artist determines that construction materials need to substituted for some reason, he or she should let you know in a timely manner.

Step 7 Wait for the delivery of the finished product.

Now the actual work begins and you may find waiting for the finished product as excruciating as waiting for Christmas morning when you were a child. But once your beautiful stained glass piece is delivered and installed you will find it well worth the wait and effort.