Lead is the primary metal used in stained glass panels. This metal, true to its name, is heavy yet it is relatively maleable allowing shaping capabilities necessary in the construction of stained glass works of art. We offer a number of styles of pre-formed lead (sold in 6′ sections) appropriate for your project. U-style as well as H-style lead channel is used for framing stained glass panels, and H-style lead came is used for interior work. Lead U- style is available in 1/4 ” face (the part you see) while the H-style is available in 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″ face. Also available are both round and flat face profiles.  The profile of lead came is a design choice for stained glass artists, round being the most popular. Although it is a matter of controversy, we recommend “stretching” all lead products before use. Stretching lead actively restructures it, increasing its hardness as well as its long-term strength.  In addition to lead, we offer U-style zinc channel as well as H-style zinc came in various face sizes to 3/4″. Due to its light weight and inherent strength, zinc is appropriate for some applications. It is important to note that zinc is very difficult to cut and is not maleable, thus designs must be kept simple and more geometric. Lead can be used for eleborate shapes and for framing circular panels, zinc cannot. (In limited supply, we carry 1/8″ brass U-style channel.) Please inquire as to your particular project and we will be pleased to advise. You are always welcome to come in to the studio and view our stock metals.

 If additional strength and stability are needed in larger stained glass panels, we offer flat rebar in 3/8″ and 1/2″ widths. Rebar is galvanized steel, 1/8″ thick. It is soldered directly to seams, usually horizontally, for overall weight distribution of the entire stained glass panel. Rebar should be used in conjunction with wood, metal or masonry perimeter molding treatments. Please inquire.

 Thanks for visiting. Be sure to check out our gallery at: www.creativewilmington.com

Please come back again for another article.