Aggrigate Archives - Page 4 of 6 - Church Stained Glass Restoration

Five Gorgeous Stained Glass Churches to Add To Your Travel Bucket List

April 16, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass

Churches have always used stained glass throughout history in an effort to teach the illiterate about the Bible. This tradition has lead to some of the most impressive historical stained glass pieces that truly are pieces of art. For art lovers and stained glass enthusiasts alike, traveling around the world to see these features in person can definitely be tempting. Our top five gorgeous stained glass churches on our bucket list should definitely be considered for your travel bucket list.

Inspiring Religious Stained Glass from Around the World

Sainte-Chapelle in Paris has 15 Gothic-style stained glass windows that are each about 50 feet in height. 1113 individual stained glass panels make up these 15 windows offering intricate detail work, each depicting a different scene from the New and Old Testaments. King’s College Chapel located in the University of Cambridge has incredible narrative stained glass windows. With religious and royal motifs, these stained glass windows deliver an inspiring look for the advancements of England’s Gothic art movement. The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, located in Shiraz, Iran is one of our favorites– with beautiful, symmetric stained glass throughout its facades, the brilliant colors are truly breathtaking. The vivid colors enhance the interior’s rose-colored tiles and Persian carpets. La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona has multicolor stained glass windows that range in rainbows and grand aesthetics. The Thanks-Giving Square is a non-denominal church that features a beautiful seashell shaped stained glass window filled with vibrant colors.

Preserving Your Church’s Stained Glass Windows

Church Stained Glass Restoration is honored to deliver our renowned restoration process for properly preserving your church’s stained glass windows. Our vision is to protect these works of art so that future generations can appreciate them as well.

For more information regarding religious stained glass restoration for your church, please contact us!

The History Of Stained Glass In The United States

April 10, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass

The Beginnings Of Stained Glass In The US

The US was relatively late to the stained glass game–given that settlers from Europe got here in the 1600s and stained was “invented” somewhere around 1000 AD. However, this artform permeates the American church culture and is a prominent feature on many homes to this day.

The Beginning Of Stained Glass In The US

The first stained glass production was actually set up almost immediately in Jamestown shortly after settlement in 1607. The reason for this? Wood in England was running out. And in order to make stained glass windows like those in churches all across Europe, incredibly hot furnaces fueled by wood were. Here in the Americas, there was plenty of wood, therefore, stained glass manufacturing made good sense as new world trade. Many workshops were built, one of which was set up by Jan Smeedes, in 1679, in Lower Manhattan where made roundels. Another was William Gibson, who was labeled the “Father of Painted Glass.”

However, the Puritans rejected the religious imagery of the Churches of England, so almost no glass is left from the colonial times –as much more was exported than created for churches here in the US. In fact, less than 1% of the Nation’s stained and leaded glass predates 1700.

However, the 1700s is what is called the golden age of stained glass in Europe and by the early 1800s an intense interest in the craft arose again in and production began to increase steadily throughout the century. The most significant early stained glass piece in America was by John and William Jay Bolton between 1843 and 1848, called St. Ann and the Holy Trinity.

The Age of Stained Glass In The US

The 19th and 20th century gave rise to the incredible breadth of stained glass we see on churches and homes across the country, with notable contributions by

Louis Comfort Tiffany: Known for his designs of richly colored works of glass in the art nouveau style and also a type of iridescent glass called Favrile.

Frank Lloyd Wright: A pioneer of geometric representations of natural motifs and use of angled glass.

While the “great age of stained glass” has ended, there are still many, many remaining stained glass windows remain all over the country today. It is this rich history of stained glass in the US that we here at Church Stained Glass Restoration work to preserve everyday. If you have a vintage stained glass window in your church that you would like us to inspect for restoration, reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.

3 Things To Consider Before Having Your Church Stained Glass Restored

March 22, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass

Stained Glass Restoration Tips for Churches

You may have noticed many beautiful churches across the country whose original stained glass windows have succumbed to age and the elements. At the 80-100 year mark, even the best stained glass from the early 20th century begins to disintegrate. These fragile glass panels are too easily broken or cracked by harsh weather, frames bow over time, and the leading begins to sag noticeably. But, as technology and expertise have advanced over time, we can now restore these crumbling monuments for another 150-200 years. This is no small feat, and we invite you to investigate how to move ahead.

What Will Your Church Stained Glass Restoration Cost?

Church stained glass restoration is delicate work, and can quickly run into the thousands. But, the splendor restored to the church not only serves as a blessing to the congregants but preserves and draws attention to the rich historical context that surrounds that church. When contemplating if a stained glass restoration project is right for your church, a thorough estimate is a necessity.

How Long WIll The Restoration Take?

We at Church Stained Glass Restoration understand very well the time and expertise required to completely and beautifully rejuvenate your stained glass treasures. Please understand, that there’s no royal road to accomplish this! One should consider that the repairs will take time, so please think about how temporary windows that could be in place for several months might affect daily routines. We just want to you to be fully prepared with a complete estimate that truthfully includes the “down-time” while your stained glass windows are restored.

How Will Your Church Raise Funds For Restoration?

If the windows are badly in need of repair, large, or many, the costs for such a project can grow pretty rapidly. An open discussion with your congregation can be a fruitful place for fundraising ideas! At Church Stained Glass Restoration, not only have we done impeccable work for many satisfied clients, but we have been fortunate enough to work with several churches on their own fundraising efforts. We’d love to share our ideas with you!

The processing can seem daunting and technical, but please reach out to us with any questions big or small, at Church Stained Glass Restoration can help your church recapture its due glory!

Stained Glass Restoration Highlight: Bethel A.M.E.

February 15, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass

What Church Stained Glass Restoration Does For A Community

The fact of the matter is, Church stained glass restoration can be an expensive undergoing. But it is very important to note that these types of revitalizations are critical to the history of American churches of any denomination and a way to breathe new life into congregations. They are, in addition, simply a joy to parishioners. So, for churches across the country with history and love for their chapel, stained glass restoration should be a very real consideration.

A Stained Glass Restoration Rich In History And Love

A perfect example of how amazing stained glass restoration is for churches and their members is can be seen by the sanctuary restoration of Bethel A.M.E. Church, located in Huntington in NY. This charming historic church has the distinction of being Huntington, NY’s oldest African American church and that carries with it deep historical and a fair amount of sentimental significance too; both for the area and for the African American community. The project cost about $50,000 and took two years to complete. However, as the parishioners discovered, it carried deep meaning as they ended up feeling like they had directly contributed to preserving more than just their windows but their culture too. In the end, they got the windows they cherished back into stunning shape while at the same time paying homage to bygone parishioners who had put so much into founding the church and installing the original stained glass windows.

The Deterioration Of The Stained Glass Windows And What To Do

As you can see from the pictures, the stained glass windows in the sanctuary at Bethel A.M.E. were simple but lovely. They are prime examples of the 1920s era, as they were constructed in 1924. Over the years the condition of the stained glass windows had deteriorated to the point that in 2016, Rev Larry D Jennings made a decision to rescue them from their broken down state. He did this not only because the window really needed it but because he and his church body understood the history, culture and artistic value of them. It was also, as they saw it, a good way to respect the church members of the past who likely sacrifice for them to be installed.

How To Pay For The Church Stained Glass Restoration

Stained glass restoration can be an expensive undertaking, as well as finding funds a challenge. But as Bethel A.M.E discovered–very much not impossible and definitely well worth it. In their case, a town historian, Robert Hughes found grants from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation for $20,000, them the Sacred Sites program of the New York Landmarks Conservancy for $10,000; and finally The Gerry Charitable Trust for $5,000. The rest of the costs were covered by the congregation members donating money themselves and results are clearly inspiring.

Stained Glass Restoration Guide And Pricing

If you have a church anywhere across the USA with old stained glass windows that your church members just love, perhaps it is time to consider having them restored as a way to breath new life into them and your congregation. Here at Church Stained Glass Restoration, we work on churches all across the country and we will guide you through the process, costs, and even fundraising too. Contact us today for more information and for a free consultation/stained glass inspection.

How to Tell if Your Church Stained Glass is Ready for Repair, Restoration, or Replacement

February 5, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass Restoration

Church stained glass plays such a significant role in every community. It creates a constant ray of inspiration during sermons, personal prayer sessions, and services. Not only does religious stained glass offer so much sentimental meaning for flocks, it also provides historic and antique value. Preserving these works of art throughout the nation is important for so many different reasons. Does your stained glass need a little love? Not sure if it’s ready for repairs, restoration, or replacement? Here are some signs!

Indicators for Church Stained Glass Repair, Restoration, or Replacement

Minor scratches and surface damage usually requires repair– these repairs can be completed without removing your stained glass windows. Restoration is required every 75 to 100 years, giving churches a good time frame for planning. If you see any cracks, missing pieces, discoloration, disintegrating lead, softened lead, etc. these are all indicators that your stained glass is ready for restoration. Restoration is needed before too much damage occurs and replacement becomes the best financial option. While most stained glass can always be restored for a price, there comes a point where replacement can be less expensive than restoration. A cost-benefit analysis can be completed by a professional stained glass artisan, showcasing which option is cheaper.

Finding the Right Stained Glass Studio for Your Church Stained Glass Restorations

Church Stained Glass Restoration is the industry leader in repairs and restorations. We’re happy to evaluate your stained glass to help determine if you need in-house repairs, full restoration, or complete replacement. Choosing the wrong stained glass studio can lead to further expenses and an unsuccessful outcome. Experience proper, meticulous restorations that can add another 100 years to your stained glass’ lifespan. Our renowned techniques can restore stained glass from any time period.

For more information regarding church stained glass repairs or restoration, please contact us!

Why You Should Do A Painted Church Tour When Visiting Texas

January 29, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass Restoration

Painted Church Tours In Texas

An absolute must when visiting Texas is to go and see the legendary “Painted Churches” which are the pride of the state. Painted churches are historic chapels and churches painted by German and Czech immigrants, in bright colors and bold patterns to celebrate their continued success as a pioneer and to keep spirits high in times of trouble. Better than visiting a single church– book an entire tour with the Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce. They have a wealth of knowledge about the area’s painted churches and will provide you with one of the most spectacular tours Texas has to offer. They are also well rated on Trip Advisor and other review sites–so you know you will get your money’s worth (typically a $10 fee) As stained glass professionals here in Texas, Church Stained Glass Restoration appreciates the preservation of such amazing historical treasures like the painted churches. So much so, that we decided to write about a few of the best churches included in the tour and their stained glass windows too.

Stained Glass Treasures In Texas Painted Churches

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

This gorgeous vintage church is Nicknamed the Pink Church. Built in 1907, it is technically the third church built on this site since the two before it was destroyed by natural disasters. The current stained glass windows are simple but breathtaking with hints of the previous Gothic Revival-style of architecture they were built in.

Saints Cyril and Methodius Church (Dubina, TX)

The Saints Cyril and Methodius Church were actually designed by is famed architect Leo Dielmann after the original church was destroyed in 1909 by a hurricane. Dielman’s designed 100 churches in Central Texas and it is easy to see why he was so sought after as the stunning stained glass in Saints Cyril and Methodius is surrounded by the most beautiful interiors of almost any Texas painted church.

St. Mary Catholic Church (High Hill, TX)

St. Mary Catholic Church in High Hill has a brick exterior with a wooden interior unlike many other churches in the area. This is due to church leadership encouraging communities to build churches out of brick or stone since so many were destroyed by storms and fires. St. Mary was also designed by famed church architect Leo Dielmann and, in fact, was the first church designed by him. Once again his Gothic Revival style is evident by the decorative painting on the ceilings and even the stained glass in said Gothic style.

Here at Church Stained Glass Restoration, we have restored a number of churches similar to the amazing chapels above. As restoration experts, we cherish the long church and stained glass history in the state of Texas and would love to work with your church if the need is there. For more information on stained glass repair or restoration in all of Texas, contact us today!

Must See Restored American Church Stained Glass

January 29, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass Restoration

Stunning Church Stained Glass Review: First Congregational Church

New England has many shining examples of stained glass and First Congregational Church in Greenwich, CT is home to some of the best in the state, if not the country. This glass is also a shining example of the stunning results of church stained glass restoration, as their glass was restored in 2008 and 2009. Their stained glass windows are as magnificent as they are plentiful and are great examples of work by numerous artists such; J&R Lamb Studios, Helen Sickles Hull and Marguerite Gaudin to name a few. As lovers of church stained glass and church stained glass restorers ourselves, we have highlighted some of the most lovely windows for our readers to enjoy. Look below to enjoy some of our selections fromThe First Congregation’s gorgeous online stained glass window tour!

Chancel Stained Glass Window

Designed and created by Willet Studios in 1960 this stained glass window is the epitome of inspirational church stained glass. Beyond the amazing fact that this window literally comes alive as the sun sets when sculptured gold” elements begin to shine inside the chapel meetinghouse, is the fact that this window has imagery representing everything from Palm Sunday to ash Wednesday and from Pentecost to all four gospel saints: Matthew, Mark, Luke, And John.

Tower Room Stained Glass Window

One window that stands out from all the other is the Tower Entrance window pictured above. The lovely flowers in this bold but still elegant piece of church stained glass are eye-catching but it is truly the delicate color scheme which is nothing short of stunning and truly an epitaph of love for two truly loved parishioners as it is –“In memory of Victor R. Denson 1893-1976 and Mary E. Denson 1893-1991 by their family”

North Transept Window

The North Transept Windows of the First Congregation Church were installed in 1896. These windows are truly beautiful to behold. The skill in which they have been created, showing realistic flesh colors, hints at the possible creator being John Singer Sargent. Regardless, the bold colors are enchanting and the biblical scenes striking–explain why this one of the most admired in the church’s collection.

As you can see through the pictures and descriptions above, church stained glass has the power to memorialize, inspire and enchant. A convincing reason why churches here in the US and around the world should keep theirs in good repair and restored when needed. For more information about church stained glass restoration, repair and pricing contact us today! Here at Church Stained Glass Restoration, we have locations across the country and would love to bid on your church’s restoration.

Stained Glass Restoration And Your Churches Aging Stained Glass

January 29, 2019 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass

Why Most Church Stained Glass Today Is In Need Of Repair

The world’s stained glass is rapidly declining and, as such, stained glass window restoration is becoming a popular avenue for churches to take. It is also necessary if there is any hope of preserving these wonderful pieces of history since much of this country’s religious stained glass has been exposed to the elements for over 100 years–, at which age deterioration forces repairs and restorations.

How Do I Know What Restoration My Churches Stained Glass Needs?

The best way to fully understand what type of repairs and restoration your church needs is to call a professional, like us at Church Stained Glass Restoration and have them inspect your window. After our inspections, we will be able to you tell which parts of the frame needs to replacing, which glass pieces of glass need repairs and which others may just need to be replaced. We will also examine the protective glazing system (if applicable) and take pictures of our findings.

The Evaluation And Bids On Church Stained Glass Repair

After we examine your church we will write up a thorough bid that details the time and cost for items like replacement of broken glass, fixing loose braces, cleaning glass in place and removing glass for repair in our studio. We will also give you a very accurate idea of how long the repairs will take in light of your individual scope.

What Happens At Our Stained Glass Studio

When we do need to take glass into our studio the windows are carefully removed from their framing, carefully wrapped and transported to our for restoration. Here the panels are disassembled, lead is removed and recycled and every glass piece is skillfully cleaned and repaired. The glass is then returned to your church and delicately installed back into position–looking as lovely as did 100 years ago!

If restoring your church’s stained glass is something you are interested in, please reach out to us at Church Stained Glass Restoration today! We have stained glass locations across the US and would be happy to bid on your upcoming project.

How to Get Started with Your Church’s Antique Stained Glass Restoration Project

November 2, 2018 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass Restoration

Numerous churches across the United States are now seeing the signs of deterioration among their treasured, antique stained glass windows. Deterioration can present itself in a multitude of different ways– from cracked glass to missing glass pieces, disintegrating lead came, white film, and much more, these all signify that your religious stained glass is ready for restoration. Restoration is usually recommended when stained glass reaches the age of 75 years to 100 years old. It can definitely be an intimidating process, so we’re happy to help.

The Assessment of Stained Glass Restoration for Your Church’s Antique Stained Glass Windows

If you’re wondering how to get started on stained glass restoration, it all begins with identifying deterioration and determining if your stained glass is a candidate. Finding a trustworthy, well-experienced stained glass artisan is the next step. This stained glass repair studio should have numerous years of experience in addition to requiring an on-site assessment to determine project costs and timelines. If a stained glass studio offers you a quote without seeing your stained glass in person, this is not a good sign. Restoration estimates require in-person evaluation in order to properly determine the causes of deterioration in addition to creating a custom restoration plan. This simply cannot be done without an on-site assessment.

Benefits of Stained Glass Restoration for Church Antique Stained Glass Windows

Stained glass restoration offers so many benefits that any church can take advantage of. From preserving antique value to ensuring future generations are inspired as well, restoration can return your antique stained glass windows to their original condition. Many congregation members are shocked after re-installation of properly restored stained glass windows– the luminosity and vibrancy of colors are truly jaw-dropping. Restoration can add another 100 years to your stained glass’ lifespan.

For more information regarding stained glass restoration for your church’s antique stained glass, please contact us!

The History Of Stained Glass In the US

October 16, 2018 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass Restoration

American Stained Glass

As you likely well know, stained glass is a very old form of art dating back over a thousand years. The stained glass in our country obviously not quite that old but does have a history nearly as long as the European settlers to the US. Here at Church Stained Glass Restoration, we take great pride in our own rich history for over 25 years here in the US and wanted to enlighten our readers with a brief history of American stained glass.

Church Stained Glass: The Beginning Of Stained Glass In The US

Although glass making was first set up in Jamestown in 1607– the industry did not stick. However, the first record of church stained glass is much later is not surprisingly a reference to an unpaid invoice for stained glass on a local chapel. It is not surprising since church stained glass has long played a role in stained glass proliferation. The first reference to church stained glass is a complaint written by an enterprising stained glass artist named Duyckingh requesting a payment of 2.5 beavers as payment for church stained glass he had installed. However, it would be quite a while from here before stained glass on churches and homes took hold in America due to declining trends and the expense of glass in the new world

Innovations In Church And Home Stained Glass In The US

It is around 1857 with the establishment of J&R Lamb Studios in New York City that we really see stained glass catch hold.. This was the first major decorative arts studio in the United States and for quite a few years they produced the majority of the ecclesiastical stained glass.

From here on we see stained glass in the US grow and a real push towards innovation with renowned American craftsman like:

John La Farge (1835–1910): He Invented opalescent glass and received a U.S. patent for it in 1880

Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848–1933): He Received a number of patents for variations of the opalescent process and is rumored to have invented the copper foil method as an alternative to lead. This can be seen extensively in Tiffany windows, lamps and other decorations.

Charles J. Connick (1875-1945): Founded his Boston studio in 1913 and was heavily influenced by his study of medieval stained glass in Europe. Connick created hundreds of windows throughout the USA, including major glazing schemes at Princeton University Chapel and at Pittsburgh’s Heinz Memorial Chapel.

All of these artists and many more led to the creation of many beautiful stained glass cathedrals, churches and a lot of the home stained glass we see here in the United States today. For more information on stained glass for your home or church or for stained glass restoration contact us at Church Stained Glass Restoration today.

Aggrigate