Document Original Panel
30 minutesdocument original panel with precision, following established stained glass methods and verifying results at each stage.
Advanced2-4 weeks
Restoration Repair Guide
Learn restoration repair from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
restorersconservators
Workflow
Remove Damaged Sections
45 minutesremove damaged sections with precision, following established stained glass methods and verifying results at each stage.
Match Replacement Glass
60 minutesmatch replacement glass with precision, following established stained glass methods and verifying results at each stage.
Re-lead and Solder
75 minutesre-lead and solder with precision, following established stained glass methods and verifying results at each stage.
Clean and Protect
1-2 hoursclean and protect with precision, following established stained glass methods and verifying results at each stage.
Tools Used
Checklist
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Planning
Preparation
Safety
Execution
Quality
Documentation
Reference Materials
Restoration Repair ReferenceTable
Key benchmarks for restoration repair.
| Method | Line Width | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Copper foil | 1/8 in | Suncatchers |
| Lead came | H or U | Panels |
| Paint | N/A | Detail |
Solder JointFormula
Smooth bead = adequate heat + flux — cold joints crack
Lead ExposureStandard
Wash hands after handling lead came — do not eat in work area.
Score Once
One confident score line beats multiple light passes — glass follows the first cut.
Match Original Glass
Photograph and trace damaged pieces before removal — color and texture matching is the hardest restoration step.
Lead Safety
Old panels may contain lead paint and came — wear a respirator when disturbing aged putty.
Safety Notes
- Wear safety glasses and cut-resistant gloves when cutting or grinding glass.
- Wash hands after handling lead came and solder — never eat in the work area.