Selecting Colors for My Stained Glass Project

Updated: 3 days ago

When it comes to selecting colors for stained glass, a great approach is to go for colors that complement each other. These complementary colors, also known as Reciprocal colors on a color wheel, can include warm shades like yellow, orange, and red. Additionally, there are cool colors such as blue and green that can be considered.

Color wheel for selecting stained glass colors — Click to Enlarge

Have you ever heard of color theory? According to this theory, if you want a harmonious color combination, simply choose two colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. It's like magic! And did you know that if you pick three colors that are equally spaced around the wheel, they will form a triangle? Even more interesting, four colors will form a rectangle, with two pairs of colors opposite each other. These combinations are known as color schemes, and the best part is, they always remain harmonious, no matter how you rotate the wheel.

Factors to consider:

Are you making this piece for yourself, a friend, or a client? If it's for yourself, feel free to pick any colors you like - it's your creation, so let your personality shine through. If it's for a friend, try to include their favorite colors in the design. And if it's for a client, prioritize their preferences while also providing your input. Remember, they are relying on you to deliver a product that meets their needs.

Keep in mind the location of your stained glass creation. If it will be in a bright area, select glass that won't lose its vibrancy. If not, go for glass that will still make a statement even without light shining through.

Lastly, if you plan to hang it on a wall, like a mirror or picture frame, go for non-transparent glass.

Choosing your glass:

Once you've chosen your color scheme, the next step is to determine the type of glass to use - whether it's cathedral, wispy, textured, opal, or a mix. This will make the glass selection process much easier. Stay open to alternatives - not every color is readily available, so it's a good idea to have backup colors or shades ready in case a specific one is unavailable. Don't hesitate to combine different types or textures in your project.

Identify the specific elements of your project that you want to make a statement; these are typically showcased in bold or vibrant colors in either monochromatic or complementary shades. Additionally, for the key components that draw attention, consider incorporating a complementary color. Backgrounds should be kept in subtle tones with simple textures to maintain focus on the main elements. Adding textured or wispy glass can also enhance the overall depth of your artwork. Be sure to keep the direction of the glass or patterns consistent to prevent visual distractions.

Deciding on the perfect glass can be both challenging and rewarding for your project. Developing a keen eye for it takes practice. If you're new to this, start off with something basic until you get a feel for the various types of glass. Remember to inspect glass with light in front of it and also with daylight coming through from behind. Be cautious when selecting glass at night or in dimly lit spaces, as it can be misleading.

Side Note:

Show off your love for stained glass with apparel and accessories from Caveman Glass Store. Browse our Stained Glass section for shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, bags, thermal bottles, and more. Our products are perfect for avid crafters who want to sport their hobby with pride. Don't miss out on the chance to showcase your creativity and passion for this beautiful art form. Visit our eBay Store today to get your hands on our stained glass merchandise.