Thomas Critchlow Art Glass pieces are handcrafted using traditional techniques and premium materials. With a few simple care tips, you can maintain the beauty of the glass while helping protect the solder and patina. Whether you own a stained glass suncatcher, ornament, panel, or window panel, the right care helps keep your piece beautiful for years to come.
Routine Stained Glass Care
Dust your stained glass weekly with a soft, dry cloth. A small, soft-bristle artist brush can help remove dust from details and textured areas. When cleaning, take a quick look at the hanging loop (jump rings), solder joints, and patina. Go ahead a peek at the hanging hardware, especially if you use a suction hook. Read on to learn why you shouldn’t be!
Gentle Techniques for a Deeper Clean
If dusting wasn't enough, there are some extra steps you can take. These are useful for pieces that have missed several routine cleanings, have been in storage, or for vintage pieces you may have in your home.
1. Clean with a soft dry cloth and brush, as covered above.
2. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with cool water and swish your cloth.
3. Squeeze out the extra water and use the damp cloth to wipe away the dust.
4. Rinse with cool water.
5. Pat dry with a clean, soft cloth and rehang.
Avoid soaking stained glass, which can discolor the metal finish over time.
Protecting the Finish
Over time, the patina of your stained glass may naturally deepen. This is part of the character of traditional stained glass and adds to the beauty of the piece. Household cleaning solutions can damage the finish. Please avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, acidic cleaners like vinegar, abrasive materials, or paper towels that may scratch or leave fibers behind.
Hanging Your Stained Glass
Avoid using suction cups to hang your stained glass. They can (and will) lose suction over time, causing your beautiful art to fall and likely break. Please learn from my mistakes! Instead, I recommend the following:
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Use a properly anchored picture hanger or cup hook
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Make sure hardware is appropriate for the weight of your piece
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Consider displaying larger pieces on a stand
Storing Your Stained Glass
You can take these steps to store your seasonal stained glass decor:
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Wrap it first in white, acid-free tissue paper.
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Add protective padding. Use bubble wrap, honeycomb paper, or extra tissue.
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Place it in a sturdy box.
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Label the box so you know what piece is inside.
Bubble wrap and plastic materials may be used as additional protection, but should not sit directly against the stained glass. These steps are also great for moving and mailing.
Handling Stained Glass
Traditional stained glass techniques may use copper foil, lead came and leaded solder. The finished piece is intended as decorative art, not as a toy or item for children. As a precaution, wash your hands after handling or cleaning your stained glass.
Thank you for caring for your handmade artwork. Each piece was created by hand and deserves the same care that went into making it.
Looking for your next handmade glass piece? Browse our stained glass suncatchers, ornaments, and panels.