Your Stained Glass Info

Sophisticated but Still Fun Decorating With Palm Tree Lamps
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mark_Clifton]Mark Clifton

It is not a very common decorating scheme, but placing a few touches of the islands into your home can keep your house feeling like a beach in Maui year round.  I’m not talking about cranking up the heat and bringing in a truckload of sand; maybe just a touch of subtlety.  Perhaps you’ve just returned from a vacation in the Islands and can’t get it out of your head.  You’re missing the tropical atmosphere and want to be reminded of how much fun it is.  Maybe your job is boring and the only thing that gets you through the day is the Hawaiian vacation you’ve got coming up in a month.  There’s a great solution to either of these problems.

Palm tree lamps are hand crafted and customizable lamps that are made to look like…you guessed it…a palm tree.  There are other styles too, of course, but they are all island-related, such as Tiki Poles.  They help you bring the island feeling back home or to work with you.  These lamps are hand crafted by skilled artisans.  The creators do a large majority of their business with personalized orders, but also have a great selection of premade floor or table palm tree lamps.

For something a little more sophisticated but still fun and reminiscent of a more tropical place, you might be inspired by a Tiffany style palm tree lamp.  Staying true to the elegant design of the original artist, this Tiffany style palm tree lamp is made up of stained glass mosaic tiles perched atop a sturdy copper or iron base.  It’s not clear right away that is lamp is even a palm tree.  Therein may lay its appeal, as no one but you has to know that you are secretly pining for a beach in Honolulu while you listen to your boss blather on about TPS reports.

Other palm tree lamps are even more subtle than the first two mentioned.  One in particular looks like an ordinary, everyday lamp with a slender base leading up to an off-white shade.  However, protruding from the middle of the base are two palm leaves, poking out only slightly, as if to remind you that your island getaway is waiting for you just as soon as you can, well, get away!  Palm tree lamps are a great way to keep your mind in the island mood while you deal with the stresses of life here on the main land.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Clifton http://EzineArticles.com/?Sophisticated-but-Still-Fun-Decorating-With-Palm-Tree-Lamps&id=823245

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Stained Glass First Aid
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Judy_Soccio]Judy Soccio

Owners of older homes appreciate the beauty of stained glass.  In some cases, the stained glass windows may have been the emotional “reason” that prompted you to buy your house.  But as with so many other aspects of old house ownership, stained glass needs maintenance and care.  Below are some suggestions on how to care for your windows — and how to recognize when to call in an expert.

A stained glass panel is constructed of 1) individually cut pieces of clear or colored glass, or bevels; 2) held together by a matrix of lead came or copper foil.  Lead came dates to mediaeval times and is the traditional method of assembling leaded glass panels.  Zinc came is associated with the prairie designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and his contemporaries.  Copper foiling is the method introduced by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and is the preferred method for constructing intricately designed art glass panels and lampshades.  An additional step in the construction of leaded glass panels is the application of cement to fill the space between the glass and the inside surface of the lead or zinc came.  Cement is applied to the front and back of the panel to weatherproof and add strength to the panel.  Large panels also should be braced with saddle bars or reinforcement bars.

Inspect your windows for age and buckling.  To assess the condition of the lead or zinc cames, look for telltale signs of metal fatigue and corrosion.  Old lead is still functional if the exposed face of the metal (the flanges) can be lifted and flattened without cracking.  Lead covered in a fine white powder has oxidized and has reached the end of its useful life.  Zinc covered with small white spots is worn out, too.  Examine the metal for hairline cracks near the joints, particularly around the border of the panel.  These indicate metal fatigue.

Large or especially elaborate glass panels are often reinforced with steel or brass bars.  These saddle bars, about 1/8″ thick by ¼” wide, are attached to the cames and notched into the sash to stiffen the window and help support the panel’s weight.  Some reinforcement bars are soldered to the cames, while others are fastened with twisted copper wires.  If the bars have separated from the came, they should be reattached using the original method.  Bars that have split the came will require releading by a professional restorer.

If the panel has developed a bulge, measure its depth.  A panel that is 1″ or less out of line and does not rattle should be professionally examined, but may not need to be repaired.  Panels more than 1½” out of true need to be removed from the window and professionally flattened and releaded.

Check the glass.  Because of the difficulty in matching some old glass, it is preferable to repair cracked glass rather than replace it.  And not every crack needs to be repaired.  If the crack is small and in no danger of falling out, leave it alone.  If glass is missing or badly cracked, call a professional.  If repairs are minimal and the panel is large, an on-site repair may be possible.

If you have to transport the glass to a professional restorer, start by securing loose cames and glass panes with painter’s tape.  (Do not use duct tape!)  Remove the sash with panel still attached.  For added security, lay the panel on a larger sheet of plywood and tape it down.  Smaller panels can be wrapped and laid flat in a wooden box.

Clean a sound leaded or copper foiled glass panel with a soft rag and a neutral pH soap.  Wring the rag out well.  Avoid abrasive products which can scratch the glass or metal.  Do not use spray products or those containing ammonia.  The liquid can get under the foil or lead came and the ammonia can react with the lead or cement.  Windows in bathroom or kitchen settings can be cleaned with a dampened #0000 steel wool pad to remove soap residue, grease, and mildew.  Polish with a paste product such as Glass Wax or a stained glass polish available at any stained glass supply retailer. Use a soft rag to apply the paste, let dry, and buff.  CAUTION: This process may release lead dust into the work area.  Clean any surfaces surrounding the panel (sashes, sill, and floor) with soap and water to contain any lead residue.  And wear a dust mask.

Protective glazing, while not necessary, can provide protection to your stained glass panel from vandalism or a wayward baseball.  To maintain aesthetics, the storm window sash should be of similar material to the original sash.  Depending on local building codes, the glazing can be double strength glass or Plexiglas(R).  Note that plastic glazing will yellow and scratch over time.  Lexan(R), which will not yellow, is nonetheless very easily scratched.  Tempered double strength glass is expensive, but offers the best protection.

Judy Soccio of SR Design designs and fabricates original stained glass panels, domes, and glass art.  SR Design also offers complete residential art glass restoration and repair and specialized church window fabrication/restoration. Whether you need a treasured panel repaired or you want to commission a treasure for the future, allow SR Design to bid on your next glass project.  Begin your design inspiration at http://www.wedowindowstoo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judy_Soccio http://EzineArticles.com/?Stained-Glass-First-Aid&id=927341

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Bringing Elegance Into Your Home With Tiffany Style Lamps
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Harrison_Brooks]Harrison Brooks

Tiffany style lamps are very reminiscent of the mid-to-late 19th Century. During this time period, you could find tiffany lamps in homes of the upper class. These lamps are still a symbol of wealth, but they’re also more readily available to the middle class than they were in the early 19th Century.

What is a Tiffany Lamp?

Tiffany style lamps were created in New York by Charles Lewis Tiffany, founder of Tiffany & Co, which is still recognized for making premier jewelry. Tiffany traveled all over the world, came back to the states and started working on glass and mosaics. Tiffany developed a glass making process that exposed hot glass to metallic oxides and fumes to create color. This technique makes what is now referred to as iridescent glass. To the glass novice, this means that he created stained glass.

Tiffany made lamps using his new process. Tiffany lamps have all glass, multi-colored shades. In the 19th Century, these lamps were purchased by wealthy families who wanted to redecorate their homes. The majority of these lamps were created between 1895 and 1920 though it’s easy to find modern day knock offs.

Real, genuine tiffany style lamps are extremely expensive. The knock offs can be expensive, but they’re much more affordable than the real thing. If you want to buy a real tiffany lamp, make sure to have the lamp authenticated by an antique dealer. To the untrained eye, an original lamp will look the same as a reproduction. You can tell right away if the lamp is a fake if it has a modern day design. Again, this is not a skill every buyer has, so protect your investment and get it approved by a dealer first.

Different Styles

Reproduction tiffany lamps can be used all over the house. You can find small lamps to complement your desk. You can find larger floor lamps that will light up an entire room in your home. Tiffany style lamps that act as chandlers are also popular for formal dining rooms. Buying a tiffany lamp, even a reproduction, will cost several hundred dollars so be prepared to open your wallet. [http://www.mylightingpro.com/ ]Discount Lighting is the premier lighting website. We have articles on everything from [http://www.mylightingpro.com/track-light/ ]track light to [http://www.mylightingpro.com/contemporary-track-lighting/ ]contemporary track lighting.

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Tesserae - Mosaic Pieces
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tammy_Wise]Tammy Wise

When an artist thinks of mosaic they instantly think of tesserae.  The definition of this peculiar word is small pieces that are used in the creation of mosaics.  These small items can make a mosaic great or can ruin a project that you have worked hard to complete.  To make sure that you choosewhat is best for your piece, you need to know about the different types of tesserae.

BROKEN CHINA

Broken china is probably the most popular tesserae.  The name for it is pique assiette, which means broken china mosaic.  It is a good beginner material since it is so readily available.  Broken china can be made from those chipped plates that you have in your cabinet or the wonderful vintage pieces that you find at a local garage sale.

Caution should be used with pieces that will be outside.  Some of the appliqués on the china will tend to fade in the hot sun.  Also some china may not be suitable for exterior use.  It must be frost proof or it will break with the next freeze.

The great thing about china is that you can cut these pieces to any size or shape that you need.  Dishes tend to be thicker so they may be harder to break.  A hammer is a good way to smash plates into workable pieces.  Thin set mortar is the best adhesive because you can build it up so that your china pieces will be even on the surface.

FOUND OBJECTS  

Found objects are a great tesserae because of their ease in finding.  These can include anything that can be glued.  For example, you might use vintage beads and buttons, salt shakers, paper weights, candy dishes, cork, marbles, glass bottles, and doll figurines.  Look through your junk drawers and you will surely find many things to use in your next mosaic.

Adhesives need to be chosen carefully for the findings.  You can use thin set mortar on almost anything but preparation may be necessary.  If you are using glass paperweights or marbles, you will need to lightly sand the back so that it will adhere better.  Cork will need to be sealed so that it won’t soak up the water from your thin set.

Be attentive to the environment where you place finished pieces.  For instance, you don’t want to put vintage beads out in the weather since they may become brittle and break easily.  Just use a little common sense and you won’t ruin your next project with found objects.

VITREOUS GLASS

Vitreous glass is a tesserae that comes in the form of tiles and is an affordable option with a large color palette.  Each tile has a consistent color throughout and most have a speckled surface.  Some colors will be translucent while others are opaque.  There are several brand names where you can find this tile.  Just do a quick search on the internet to find many suppliers.

Vitreous tile comes in one of four ways when purchased; face mounted on paper, face mounted on tile tape, back mounted on mesh, and loose.  You will want to remove the tiles from the mounted surface before using them in your mosaic.  These tiles come in typically two sizes; ¾” and 3/8” and can be used in any area including outdoors.

The best way to cut this glass is by using a pair of wheeled cutters.  You will find that this glass will shatter somewhat.  Always wear protective eyewear to keep shards out of your eyes.

Vitreous tile is ribbed on the back so that the adhesive can catch better.  You can use any type of adhesive but if using thin set mortar make sure to use a latex additive instead of water when mixing.  The latex additive gives the thin set more strength to hold this nonporous material.

SMALTI

Smalti is another type of glass that comes in thousands of different colors including metallics and iridescents.  Smalti is considered the finest of tesserae available. This glass gives off the same look as a painted picture.  The surface has some bubbles and the color can vary among each piece.  This is indicative of smalti.

Smalti is hand cut so every piece is a irregular but average about ½” rectangles.  Italian and Mexican smalti are available.  These come loose and are generally sold by the pound.  There is also Smalto.  It is the same as smalti except it is pressed into molds.  These can be used inside or outside but are not recommended for floors or anywhere that someone might brush up against it.  This is because of the uneven surface.  Someone may get cut when touching it.

Any adhesive will work and often smalti pieces are not grouted.  Instead the pieces are laid to where they touch and leave no grout joint.  You can also use a self grouting method.  Smalti can be cut using wheeled cutters or the traditional hammer and hardy method.

STAINED GLASS

Because there are so many colors to choose from, stained glass is becoming a very popular tesserae to use.  You can do precise cuts from full sheets or just find some scraps at a stained glass store.  The color palette is vast because each sheet can have varying colors.  You can also find this in a shimmering diochroic or iridescent look.

Stained glass can be used anywhere except on floors.  This material is too thin to hold up well and it tends to scuff easily.  If you are using transparent stained glass be sure to use a silicone adhesive or PVA glue that dries clear.  You also have to be careful not to let your design from underneath show through when using transparent glass.

Use a tile scorer to cut full sheets down to useable pieces or to cut out intricate designs.  Wheeled cutters can then be used to nip the smaller pieces.  Basic nippers do not work well since the material is so thin.

MILLEFIORI           

Millefiori is Italian handmade glass tesserae.  It literally means a thousand flowers.  These pieces are handmade to form glass rods and are hand cut into workable pieces.  Millefiori is costly but worth it if used in the right project.  Typically these pieces are round but can also be found in triangles and rectangles.  They can vary from 5 mm in diameter to 22 mm.  It can be used indoor and outdoor but shouldn’t be used on floors because of the varying thickness.

GLASS GEMS

Glass gems and shapes are popular as well.  The glass gems are flat backed glass globs that can be found in just about any color, translucent or opaque, and even iridescent.  Glass shapes can be found in many designs such as stars, moons, sea life, hearts, etc.  The sizes vary greatly.  There are many places online and locally that you can buy these glass gems.

Any adhesive can be used but the backs should be roughed up with sand paper before being used with thin set.  These shapes are thick enough to be used on flooring just make sure that they are even with the surrounding surface.

PORCELAIN/CERAMIC    

Porcelain and ceramic tiles can be found in many shades.  There are glazed and unglazed tiles as well.  Porcelain is the best for mosaics since the water absorption rate is much lower and they are perfect for exterior installations.  When looking to use ceramic tiles, make sure to inquire whether or not it is frost proof.  There are many brands for the glazed and unglazed tiles.  Search online for a wide variety of retailers.

Wheeled cutters are perfect for cutting porcelain but many mosaic artists prefer the old fashioned hammer method.  This will give you rough edges which give a mosaic character.

You will also be able to find many ceramic shapes.  These range from leaves to hearts to bugs.  You can also special order tiles that have your signature on them.  This is a great way to autograph your work.

MARBLE

Marble is how some of the first mosaics were made.  It is very durable and last forever.  You can find it in tumbled form or polished.  The color palette is limited to naturally occurring shades.

Because marble is so durable it is perfect for exterior usage and will hold up well on a floor.  It is also very difficult to cut.  You can use a hammer and hardy or a wet saw.  When you buy marble it will come in rods, small squares, or large sheets.  You can then cut them to your needs.

CONCLUSION

There are many other types of glass available to use in mosaic.  There are metallic swirled glass tiles, and iridescent tiles.  Check with the supplier as to how these will hold up in exterior uses and what types of adhesives to use.

Basically anything can be tesserae for mosaics.  Try mixing more than one type together to create a beautiful new piece of art.   Different items will give you a good variety of textures and depths.

Tammy Wise has been creating mosaic art for over 8 years.  She has been published in major glass magazines and has done mosaic commission work for businesses.  Tammy currently owns her own mosaic business in Owasso, Oklahoma.  Tile Shack Mosaic Supplies ships superior products all over the world.  Find plenty of supplies plus more information on mosaics at http://www.tileshack.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tammy_Wise http://EzineArticles.com/?Tesserae—Mosaic-Pieces&id=680663

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Tiffany Reproduction Lamps - How To Know A Good Quality Lamp From A Bad One?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nadia_Ankrah]Nadia Ankrah

Original Tiffany lamps were made by Tiffany Studios New York, in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. These lamps are now antiques and can go for millions of US dollars.   Because original Tiffany lamps are so incredibly expensive, (only the uber rich can afford them), and many people across the world have fallen for their elegance and beauty — Tiffany reproduction lamps were created. These lamps are made with a quality en par to that of original Tiffany lamps.  Tiffany reproductions have given people all over the world the opportunity to own and admire a classic work of art.  These lamps have now become so popular that they’re in a league of their own.

Tiffany reproduction lamps are exactly as described… reproductions of original Tiffany lamps. When I talk about Tiffany lamps, this is what I’m referring to.  This article is about identify good quality Tiffany reproduction lamps.

Beware Of Imitations

There are many people out there exploiting the beauty of Tiffany lamps — not staying true to the construction and craftsmanship of original Tiffany lamps; in the sense they’re not following the original techniques to construct these lamps or using materials that meet the same standard of Tiffany Studios.  Worst of all these people are those that produce lamps made out of plastic.  And then go about calling these lamps Tiffany lamps!  I find this shameful to the Tiffany lamp name… plastic lamps can’t emit light half as well as good quality art glass!  And one of the reasons Louis C. Tiffany created Tiffany lamps was because he wanted the beauty of stained glass windows to be in the homes of every American, but these windows were terribly expensive, and so one way Tiffany thought he could add exquisite stained glass to your home was transferring the art of stained glass windows to lamps. That’s why I’m writing this article.  Not only to make you aware of these Tiffany lamp imitations, but give you the knowledge to determine what’s a good quality Tiffany lamp, and what’s a bad quality lamp… so you don’t fall prey to Tiffany lamp imitations!

Plastic Lamps

The making of most Tiffany reproduction lamps use the same 100 year old technique (soldering 100`s of small pieces of colorful stained glass together) as original Tiffany lamps. Poor quality Tiffany lamps are made from pieces of colored plastic glued together… or made from poor quality glass.

There are many people producing and selling plastic Tiffany lamps.  In my opinion — and I’m sure other Tiffany lamp owners and collectors will agree — are of inferior quality.  This is why when you go to buy a Tiffany lamp, you should make sure that the materials used are of high quality (both base and shade).  The glass should be good quality art glass… not plastic.  Please do not be fooled by these cheap plastic imitation lamps, as some of the sellers of these lamps are trying to pass them off as good quality Tiffany lamps. Poor quality Tiffany lamps are much cheaper than authentic Tiffany reproduction lamps.

How Tiffany Lamps Are made… A brief Overview

For you to be able to identify a good Tiffany lamp from a bad one, you need to have knowledge on how Tiffany lamps are made.  All decent Tiffany lamps are not made by machinery, but hand made works of art.  The shade of a Tiffany lamp is constructed from hand cut, polished and shaped pieces of stained art glass.  Once all the pieces are cut, copper foil is wrapped around each individual piece (can you image how long that would take for a shade made out of 1000 pieces?).  These copper wrapped glass pieces are then soldered together with lead.

An Important Bit!

I must stress here, that when you look at a Tiffany shade close up, you may see some bubble, seeds (tiny bubbles) or lines in the stained glass.  Do not be alarmed by this!  These are not defects.  They’re features of the lamp and add character to the lamp… they simply reflect the nature and beauty of real stained art glass!

One of the great, and unique features about a Tiffany lamp is that no two Tiffany lamps are identical.  Why? Because the glass in these lamps aren’t plain ordinary glass… it’s high quality hand rolled art glass, and only the best pieces of glass — with the right hues and texture — are used for the Tiffany shade. This… combined with the characteristic qualities of the seeds and lines mean there’s and infinite subtle variation of any one Tiffany lamp of the same shade, size and theme. No wonder Tiffany lamps are so special and a true one-of-a-kind lamp!

How To Identify Good Quality Glass

Good Tiffany lamps are made of colorful glass of intense color.  These Tiffany lamps are vibrant pieces of decorative art, that would catch the corner of your eye — even in a room that’s lit by bright summer light pouring through the window pane.  This is true even if the lamp is not even lit!  This shows the quality and intensity of colors in a good quality lamp.  Poor quality Tiffany lamp glass will be the opposite, the color of the glass will be washed out, the shade will appear dull and flat.  This lamp would not out shine a sun lit room on a hot summers day.

A Good Quality Base

Good high-end Tiffany lamps use bronze bases… whilst lower quality Tiffany lamps aren’t made out of such high quality material, but have bronze finished bases made of zinc alloy.  Try to stay away from this type!  Another type of base that’s good quality is a base made out of mahogany. A good quality base will last you for years… and your grandchildren too!

The Price

The price range of good quality Tiffany lamps vary.  The more intricate the design of the lamp, the greater the price will be… due to the amount of effort a glass lamp artist has to undertake to implement an intricate design — compared with a simpler one.  Also.  The more panels and colors a Tiffany lamp has, the more costly it is.

The Good… The Bad… And The Plain Old Ugly!
Here’s a quick overview of what to look for in a good & bad Tiffany lamp.

The Glass
 
Bad Lamps

• Use low quality glass which looks rough and lacks brilliance

• They need a good light bulb to illuminate the artistic patterns

• The colors are not well arranged in these lamps

• They’re inconsistent nature of the low-end glass makes it difficult to find the exact color variations

Good Lamps

• Use high quality stained glass.

• They shine even when the light bulb is not lit

• You can see the patterns clearly all the way through

• The texture of art glass is smooth

• The colors are vibrant and well balanced thus bringing their themes to life

Ugly Lamps

• Have plastic as a substitute to glass.  (Sorry… I don’t mean to offend anyone here, but in my opinion, these lamps should never be produced!)

The Solder

Bad Lamps

• The solder is inconsistent

• Solder is thick at some places and thin at other places… indication of poor craftsman ship

Good Lamps

• Finely drawn

• Even and well polished

• Firm and usually plump

• Supporting the glass artwork and holding the shades tight

In summary:

Good Tiffany style lamps have a smooth and even solder lines separating the glass pieces.  Bad Tiffany lamps have a rough and uneven solder lines — if you’re not careful… the solder lines may even cut your fingers!

Is a Fruit Lamp A Tiffany Lamp?

To put it bluntly… fruit lamps being called Tiffany lamps is a huge insult to the late Louise C. Tiffany and anyone in the Tiffany lamp business!  Not every stained glass lamp you see is a Tiffany lamp, and a fruit lamp is one of them. So why, you may be thinking, is a fruit lamp not a Tiffany lamp?  Well you’re in luck.  After you’ve finished reading this you’ll know exactly how to identify what’s a Tiffany lamp, and what is NOT a Tiffany lamp.

Some of the main differences between Tiffany lamps and fruit lamps are:

• A single Tiffany lamp may has between 300-2000 glass pieces whereas a fruit lamp may have about 100 or so.

• Tiffany lamps are made from good quality art glass, which mean they have very deep rich colors, the glass offers a three dimensional effect… effectively making the theme on the glass shade spring to life.  Whereas a fruit lamp appears flat and two dimensional.  It looks dull and dingy.  There’s no life to the fruit on these shades — the glass used on these fruit lamps adds no beauty to the lamps at all.  These fruit lamps aren’t elegant like a Tiffany lamp.  They’re coarse and dreary.

• Tiffany lamps are very expensive… they can go from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars whereas fruit lamps are not expensive and can be bought almost anywhere.
So.  Hopefully, now you won’t be fooled by the cheap stained glass lamps portraying as Tiffany lamps.  If there’s one way you want to add a touch of beauty to your home… then you can’t go wrong with an exquisite Tiffany lamp.  It’ll stand the test of time for generations to come.

About The Author:

Nadia Ankrah is the owner of a Tiffany and Mica lamp website called [http://www.TiffanylampWorld.com]Tiffay Lamp World. Her website offers information on Louis C. Tiffany and Tiffany lamps… as well as offering Tiffany Reproduction lamps. She also has a blog about Tiffany lamps at http://www.TiffanyLampWorld.com/blog

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nadia_Ankrah http://EzineArticles.com/?Tiffany-Reproduction-Lamps—How-To-Know-A-Good-Quality-Lamp-From-A-Bad-One?&id=209482

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Tips to Buying Stained Glass and Reproduction Tiffany Lighting
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Martins]Nicole Martins

For anyone who appreciates the detailed beauty of illuminated colored glass, Louis Comfort Tiffany is really the person to thank.  Today, the copper foil method is still being used to produce beautiful reproduction Tiffany lighting at affordable prices.

If you are looking for a stained glass pendant fixture, chandelier or lamp, take a look at the manufactures below. These lighting designers make reproduction Tiffany fixtures and you can shop their collections for quality lighting. While these lighting manufacturers make wonderful Tiffany reproductions, they are also popular for other lighting styles and products.

Kichler Lighting -

Well made fixtures using the original turn of the century copper foil method. Collection includes a great variety of table lamps with copper foil lamp shades, on & off pull chain, or 3-way turn switching. Also: stained glass Tiffany chandeliers, pendant lights, down lights, and, ceiling and pool table lighting.

Quoizel Lighting -

This seventy year old lighting manufacturer makes quality Tiffany style lighting that provides warm and inviting light. From chandeliers and mini pendants to table lamps and down lighting, Quoizel has fans far and wide who seek out their Tiffany light fixtures.

Meyda Tiffany -

We love Meyda’s floral Tiffany chandeliers and pendant light fixtures. This lighting manufacturer features a broad range of stunning original design, as well as lighting inspired by world- renowned artists: Louis Comfort Tiffany, Frank Lloyd Wright and Gustav Stickley. Beautiful quality art and stained glass: chandeliers, pendant lighting, pool table lighting, down lights and more. see: http://www.chandeliers-and-home-lighting.com/tiffany-chandelier.htm

Robert Louis Tiffany -

A Tiffany style chandelier from the Robert Louis Tiffany Collection embodies some of the best American lighting around with hand cut glass, carefully crafted ornamentation and accents. These chandeliers and light fixtures include classic Tiffany motifs with beautiful stained glass lighting and patterning great for many home styles.

Nicole Martins is a contributing author and publisher to http://www.chandeliers-and-home-lighting.com an online resource providing you with great information, articles of interest and reviews of the best selling chandeliers online

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Martins http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-to-Buying-Stained-Glass-and-Reproduction-Tiffany-Lighting&id=74311

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Tiffany Stained Glass Lamps - Natural Themes Are Timeless
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nadia_Ankrah]Nadia Ankrah

The beauty of nature overcomes fashion and time… so if you’re looking for a timeless piece, you can’t go wrong with a natural theme based Tiffany lamp!

Case in point:  Have you ever heard of Louis Comfort Tiffany?  He’s the son of the founder of the famous and prestigious department store Tiffany & Co.  Well, he loved everything beautiful, from fine jewelry to works of art, from homes to beautiful gardens.  He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth — so no wonder he loved everything beautiful.  Because he could afford anything he wanted!  Anyway, back in the good old days of 1900,  or so,  Louis Tiffany setup his own company called Tiffany Studios.

Tiffany studios produced amazing Tiffany stained glass lamps, from natural themes such as floral and insect… no. Not the disgusting kind such as a black beetles – apologies to anyone who’s got a fetish for black beetles - but beautiful insects such as dragonfiles, butterflies… those type of things.

Although stained glass lamps of a natural theme wasn’t the only type of theme Tiffany produced — as he created magnificent geometric style stained glass lamps as well — it was the natural themed stained glass lamps that really stood out from the crowd.

Anyway, times were not always rosy for Louis.  Things were so bad that he had to stop production of certain Tiffany lamps and dramatically slash the prices of his other stained glass lamps he had in stock… because times were changing… interior decor of American homes were changing, and Tiffany lamps didn’t seem to have a place in these changing times.  So he dropped the price of his lamps to shift the remain lamps he had in stock.

But that wasn’t the end of Tiffany lamps.  Not by a long shot. There was always a whisper of a sale here and there, of a natural themed lamp; such as the wisteria lamp, or the dragonfly lamp… the dragonfly lamp is one of Louis’s most popular lamps I believe.  And after 20 years of very slow sales in lamps (were now in the year 1920… or there about) a long lost log book indicated the sales of Tiffany lamps were on the rise.  Like a phoenix from the ashes the sales of some of Tiffany’s natural themed lamps were on the increase.  Even though the styles of lamps during this time had changed, and people were not buying Tiffany lamps in great numbers, every now and then a wisteria lamp… a cobweb lamp… or a dragonfly lamp would be sold.  Or even created on demand — as one sales lodge had a comment on it saying “rush”, meaning the lamp was custom made.

Even as the styles of American people changed over time, people still bought Tiffany’s natural themed lamps… they managed to claw there way through the changing times and burst into the 21st century with such popularity and grandeur, that a Tiffany Cobweb reproduction lamp can go for more than a thousand dollars! And now Tiffany reproduction lamps are in a niche of there own, and the popularity of these lamps just keep on increasing.

About The Authour:
Nadia Ankrah is the owner of a Tiffany and Mica lamp website called [http://www.tiffanylampworld.com]Tiffay Lamp World.  Her website offers information on Louis C. Tiffany and Tiffany lamps… as well as offering Tiffany Reproduction lamps.  She also has a blog about Tiffany lamps at http://www.TiffanyLampWorld.com/blog

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nadia_Ankrah http://EzineArticles.com/?Tiffany-Stained-Glass-Lamps—Natural-Themes-Are-Timeless&id=241743

For information about free stained glass window patterns, visit http://yourstainedglassinfosite.com/freestainedglasswindowpattern/

History of Stained Glass - and Who Uses it Today
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=J_Michael_Brown]J Michael Brown

The very first use of stained glass is in dispute. This is mainly due to the fact that architecture with stained glass window artwork were created before man began to record history.

A number of scholars, who specialize in ancient history, assert it was initially used as a household luxury in the dwellings of very wealthy Romans during the first century. In due course, some history scholars believe, stained glass artwork acquired distinction as an art form during in the fourth century; at the time Christians started to worship salvation openly. Followers of Christ created elaborate churches to observe their religious conviction.

History intellectuals with opposing views assert that there is evidence of stained glass in architecture of ancient ruins. They say it links usage of stained glass to pagan customs and decorations.

It is undeniable that the proliferation of Christianity and the worship of Christ as Lord is directly correlated with the increased utilization of stained glass throughout the world. However, we may never identify the exact starting point of the stained glass art form.

Innovative designs began on the St. Denis Cathedral during the Gothic Era, which is identified as the twelfth century. It was then that stained windows took center stage. It began the pattern of creating enormous cathedral designs.

Stained glass windows were designed to bring light, metaphorically portraying the birth and death of Christ as well as literally, into cathedrals. It added enhancement to the worship experience.

The French Revolution set off the destruction of most stained glass artwork in the St. Denis Cathedral architecture, but a few excellent fragments and even some complete windows are on display in diverse locations throughout Europe.

The Gothic era style of stained glass had bold lines and colorful figures, but it was phased out during the Renaissance. Artisans began to favor greater detail, increased realism and subtle coloring.

Stained glass windows developed into something resembling a painting on glass in the Renaissance era; rather than an architectural element. Some of the notable components, like lead lines, disappeared.

There is a great complexity in the pattern and detail, which was required during the Renaissance era design. True stained glass artwork became somewhat antiquated. However, numerous pieces were created; and even some masterpieces were crafted after the Renaissance.

The Catholic Church primarily used the stained glass art form in cathedrals. Unfortunately, King Henry VIII ordered a large amount the precious artwork destroyed during the 1600’s after his rift with the Church.

Cherished stained glass windows, which had images of Christ, in most cathedrals were irresponsibly destroyed. Many glass-making facilities were also ruined. There were reasons for the decline of stained glass usage other than religious unrest.

Since the fashion favored decorative murals and more intricate detail on the interiors of Christian churches during the Baroque period, it therefore necessitated clear glass in architecture. Very few additional stained glass windowpanes were created during the era. Maintenance was neglected, so that allowed them to perish.

The imagination and compassion of people returned to the Gothic era style of architecture during the late seventeenth century. Revival may have been motivated by a need to escape austere realities of their “modern” life, which included a daily grind of factories.

A newfound appeal emerged for stained glass of the Gothic era architecture. Artists originally continued to use techniques of applying paint on glass. They eventually realized old pot metal glass, which was used in medieval times, was a superior medium.

However, the techniques used for making lead lines had been lost because procedure had not been used for so long. Artisans floundered when attempting to recreate dynamics, which were unique to the Gothic era stained glass windows.

This, coupled with reluctance to relinquish newer detailed “modern” depictions of figures and scenes, resulted in windows that had interesting designs with old architecture. The result was an unusual blend of new stained glass windows with an old Gothic and Renaissance era styles.

Artisans Tiffany and La Farge created new variants of opalescent stained glass during the nineteenth century. Tiffany had a larger studio, which branched out into areas such as the Tiffany Lamp and became a household name. La Farge tended to create window designs and architecture in a small private studio.

Today’s stained glass artists are not compelled to create windows with any particular religious theme; such as Christ on the cross and Christian scenes of the manger, or style. The work they do largely involves restoration.

But both large and small decorative touches of their work can be found in homes of people that are in almost any economic category New and innovative processes are continually being discovered. Stained glass artwork continues to enhance our lives.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_Michael_Brown http://EzineArticles.com/?History-of-Stained-Glass—and-Who-Uses-it-Today&id=901299

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Bathroom Glass - Invisible Opportunities
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=A._Prudent]A. Prudent

Glass is very ancient material. Now it’s very difficult to invent something new in glass making. Though we can still enhance the strength of the glass and vary the bathroom design.

The main methods of enhancing the strength of glass and its safety are based on the latest production technologies. Today glass is used to produce virtually all products, that’s why glass objects are widely applied in the interiors of living and non-living premises. But mainly it is found in the bathroom interiors: it makes these rooms spacious and airy.

Quite often there are lots of design projects where we come across the combination of a bathroom and a bedroom, where the doors are replaced with the glass walls, movable panels or shields made of transparent or matte glass. This combination creates an illusion of one common room which is very important if the bathroom space is not big enough.

Tinted, transparent or matte glass walls, open glass shelves can become an “invisible” zoning element in a large bathroom, where the bath area is rather remote from the wash stand. Even the low decorative walls will make the interior look heavy, but the glass walls will make it more functional and cozy.

Among a variety of glass types presented (transparent, matte, tinted), a new product - variable-transparency glass appeared recently in the stores. It does not break, it is absolutely safe and adds an air of some mystery in the bathroom aura: when the lights are on - it is transparent, but it becomes matte when the lights go down.

New bathroom installation or old bathroom remodeling would give you an opportunity to make the interiors bright and airy. You may use colour (bent, fused, roasted, sintered) glass, it will shine with all the colours of the rainbow under the halogen waterproof spotlights. This glass is used to produce not only washbasins, bathtubs and worktops of the bizarre form, but also glass furniture: it does not overload the area and it does not make even the smallest bathroom look narrow.

Glass floor in the new design (a special kind of glass with anti-slip surface is used for it) is a very original idea, it is also comfortable and functional - when the upper lights are off such floor becomes a magic source of light. Besides, there is such a great variety of glass floors. The floor can be made of color glass with or without highlighting, it can have illuminated elements in the form of still-life of shells, sand and pebble.

When the bathroom has several zones, you can arrange them at different levels. Glass edges of the stairs with illumination can be a perfect decorative component in such large room. Their light combined with the water flows reflecting in the mirrors will create inimitable sense of the magic palace.

Stained glass is a fashionable element of the bathroom interiors now. It can decorate the wall adjoining the hall. Then on turning the lights in the bathroom, you can enjoy the view of the stained glass from the hall and on the contrary: the light in the hall will be enough to take the bathroom in the romantic atmosphere. The translucent ceiling as well as decorative illuminated alcoves will turn the usual ritual of taking bath or shower into a more pleasant procedure, in the aesthetic sense.

The more glass you have in your bathroom, the more attractive it is, with the illusion of mystery and you will unravel it every time you expose your body to the warm sprays of the shower or taking aroma bath.

The exclusive glass interior is able to work wonders: leaving your bathroom, every time you will feel full of energy you cannot do without.

ArthurP. is a developer of [http://www.builderstown.co.uk/ ]London builders - web site offering all aspects of builders services. [http://www.builderstown.co.uk/how/london_builders_bathroom_fitters ]Bathroom Glass: Invisible Opportunities

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=A._Prudent http://EzineArticles.com/?Bathroom-Glass—Invisible-Opportunities&id=905337

For information about free stained glass dragon patterns, visit http://yourstainedglassinfosite.com/freestainedglasspatterndragon/

How Can I Create A Good Frame For My Stained Glass Panel?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mike_McDonough]Mike McDonough

Well that is a very good question. You can create some very unique frames for your completed stained glass panels by taking old cabinet doors and making frames out of them.

Where can you find old doors? You can go to the local cabinet makers and ask them what they do with the old door they remove from a remolding project and see if they will give them to you. I have had good success with this. Also go to Lowe’s, Home Depot, Sears, or any home remodeling store and ask their installers what they do with the old doors. Many will be glad to give them to you.

Measure your stained glass panel and try to find a door the your panel will fit into. When measuring take into account you will need inside measurement (on the door) a 1/4 to 1/2 inch smaller both width and height than your stained glass panel. This will allow for setting the panel into the frame.

Once you get the door remove the center panel by cutting it out. There are many different types of center panels but you can usually figure out the easiest way to remove them by looking how they constructed.

Once you have the center panel removed create a rabbit cut around the opening to fit your panel into. Install your panel into the opening and secure it like you would in any other frame.

What is nice about this is if you get your hands on doors the match your present cabinets you can have a beautiful stained glass cabinet door or doors on your own cabinets for  a great price.

Mike McDonough is and avid hobbyist. His primary craft hobbies include, stained glass, polymer clay, jewelry making, scrapbooking, and candle making. To learn more about these craft hobbies visit Mike at: http://efscrafts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_McDonough http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Can-I-Create-A-Good-Frame-For-My-Stained-Glass-Panel?&id=576877

For information about free beginner stained glass patterns, visit http://yourstainedglassinfosite.com/freebeginnerstainedglasspattern/