How to Start a Stained Glass Business

Part 1 - How to start a Stained Glass business - Background

A stained glass business creates and sells original and commissioned pieces of stained glass in the form of windows, sun catchers, lamps, and jewelry. Depending upon the business owner’s skill level, they may offer repair and architectural installation as an additional service.

You may also be interested in additional unique business ideas.

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start a Stained Glass business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

What are the costs involved in opening a stained glass business?

Industry leaders report an initial investment as low as $2,000 and as high as $10,000, depending upon the supplies they started out with. Your studio should be stocked with basic supplies such as cutting tools, soldering iron, and a stained glass solder. It should also have ample space to move around and a large, flat table. Since you will be working with lead, don’t forget to stock your supplies with gloves and masks. It is recommended that you shop around when purchasing glass for a project; many glass companies and studios sell smaller chunks of glass at a reduced prices.

What are the ongoing expenses for a stained glass business?

In addition to the standard administrative and payroll costs that come with running any business, you will also need to invest in supplies for each project. Networking and ongoing education should also be an integral part of your budget. Glass makers are urged to travel for conferences, where connections are made and education is gained.

Who is the target market?

The artist with basic stained glass skills should focus their marketing efforts on customers who enjoy events like arts and crafts fairs. Those with proper knowledge and experience can expand their customer base to include religious facilities and historic preservation societies, who are seeking the artist that can repair and replace glass in buildings around the community.

How does a stained glass business make money?

Stained glass businesses generate revenue through the sale of original and commissioned works. Stained glass can be enjoyed in a number of different ways, depending upon the artist’s skill set and the customer’s wishes.

How much can you charge customers?

The prices you set should cover time and materials, in addition to a comfortable profit. Value your work and set prices accordingly. Gift shop or boutique items sell from $200 to thousands of dollars. Prices for custom pieces will vary depending upon a number of factors.

How much profit can a stained glass business make?

Your profits are directly tied to your skill set, knowledge, and the type of glass you create. Successful architectural art glass makers have reported over a million dollars in sales, while private artists report significantly lower annual sales. The standard range for profits is $30,000 to $60,000 within the first three years.

How can you make your business more profitable?

To ensure maximum profits, consider teaching classes, both online, in writing, and in your studio. Develop your craft methodically, with a clear set of goals and a timeline. Gaining the education required to take larger architectural commissions and to repair stained glass will boost your profits significantly. Additionally, selling your work both locally and online will ensure your client base reaches far and wide.

Day-to-Day and Growth

What happens during a typical day at a stained glass business?

In addition to tending to the standard administrative duties that come with running a business, there are a number of tasks you and your team will be responsible for each day. Customer inquiries should be addressed in a timely manner. Commissioned work must be discussed at length to ensure the client’s vision translates into your work. Additionally, a networking and marketing strategy should be implemented and managed to ensure consistent sales. An equal balance of studio time and administrative tasks should be maintained at all times to ensure maximum productivity and profits.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful stained glass business?

The most important thing for you to remember is that this is a business. Many people make the decision to turn their hobby into a full-time job, without considering all that this entails. Before embarking on this business venture, carefully consider all that owning a business entails. If possible, spend some time in a stained glass studio. The hands on training, along with the knowledge you will gain about managing this type of business will prove invaluable.

Creating stained glass requires a significant amount of knowledge and skills. Your client base will expand exponentially with each new bit of information you absorb. In addition to artistic, craft, and business skills, the most successful stained glass business owners are well-versed in relevant aspects of architecture. They are well-read and willing to learn new styles and techniques in an effort to better serve current and future customers. The Stained Glass Association of America offers members a wealth of information regarding stained glass, its history, and safety in the studio. For those who plan to do restoration and repair, the Standards and Guidelines for the Preservation of Historic Stained Glass will prove invaluable.

Additionally, strong leadership skills will help carry you to the top of the industry. You will be interacting with everyone from religious leaders to historians and other aspiring stained glass artists. The ability to communicate and the confidence to tell a client something won’t work will be a driving factor in your success.

What is the growth potential for a stained glass business?

Stained glass has been recorded in history dating back to 675 AD. It is enjoyed in religious establishments and homes, evolving over time as artists improved their skills. The growth of technology and the Internet has expanded the artists’ reach, making it possible to work with clients across the world. A stained glass business’ growth is only limited by the team’s skills, drive, and marketing strategy.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a stained glass business?

Successful stained glass business owners offer the following insider tips:

• Always wear gloves and a protective mask and set your studio up with proper ventilation. This will help prevent the buildup of lead in your system.

• Never assume you have learned all there is to learn. Network and travel, studying windows and architecture everywhere you go. Along with your portfolio, keep a work diary that includes measurements and details that will help you grow as an artist.

• Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Take the time to learn your craft thoroughly.

How and when to build a team

Splitting your time between the studio and administrative duties means working more hours than most individuals care to work. If marketing or accounting are not your strong suit, consider bringing on an assistant that has a firm grasp on these concepts. As demand rises, it may also be necessary to bring on additional artists. When doing so, carefully consider all prospects. It is your name that will be attached to each piece sold; make sure every team member’s values, drive, and vision align with yours.

Part 2 - Is a Stained Glass business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Stained Glass business in 90 days