Restoring, Preserving and Creating
the Treasured Heritage of Radiant Stained Glass
         

 

 

 
How To Choose Stained Glass ...continued
 Creating an Atmosphere For Worship

include leaded stained glass and faceted glass (one-inch thick colored glass cemented with epoxy).

Shape – A critical element of your design plan is the shape of the windows. This should be considered early in the process so that shape, where possible, is influenced by the theme and design style, rather than the other way around. A designer can reinforce the theme of the windows through their shape. A full wall of stained glass, for example, evokes a decidedly different feeling for the worshiper than a series of gothic or circular windows would. Involve the architect early in discussion with the stained glass committee to ensure that the chosen window shape fits the overall building design. Other factors of size, number and placement should also be considered initially.

Color – Unlike the colors selected for carpeting, pew cushions and choir robes, the colors chosen for the stained glass windows cannot be readily changed. The colors in your windows will affect the congregation for as long as that sanctuary is used. Since colors affect our emotions–some colors evokes peace, others strength and power– select your colors carefully. Rule of thumb: Stick with more basic colors and avoid trendy ones. Also be careful about the depth of colors. Too little color can cause a glare problem; too much color depth can make the sanctuary dark and dreary.

Budget – What happens when your committee's aesthetic tastes call for a $320-per-square foot design while your budget has allotted only $80. Compromise will likely be necessary, requiring a simpler design or smaller windows along with an increase of budget. However, many churches have found that
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funding stained glass windows is easier than raising funds for most other church items. People respond readily to the idea of inspiring stained glass windows and often give toward windows as a memorial to a loved one.

Suggestion: Determine your budget early in the discussion so the designer can work within certain constraints and create a design only as intricate as avialable funds allow.

The creation of new stained glass can be a wonderful adventure, especially if your committee has an early understanding about the five elements of a good stained glass decision. Your first discussions should center on the themes of the windows–bringing focus to the committee early in the process. The remaining elements of design style, shape, color and budget can then round out the clear guidance your design artist needs to do the job. This process will assure you of acquiring a unique stained glass design with a specific message for your congregation and building.

Dr. Gary Gray is President of Stained Glass by Shenandoah, Front Royal, VA. This article was originally printed in Your Church magazine and then featured in The Complete Church Guide To Saving Money And Buying Smart by Broadman and Holman.
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