First Plating Project

[glasisfun]

thanks De, I went to one of your earlier posts and checked out all the pictures your posted of one you did some time ago.  I think I understand it.  Maybe it is just me, but the directions in the book seem confusing, maybe when I get started it will "gel" in my mind.

thanks for the tips and insight!

I have sort of a radical idea I want to try, and if you never see another post from me on it, you will know it did not work........

[PiscesGlass]

Your very welcome.  And if you get 'stuck' with the book, just come on in here and ask!  I'm sure that any one of us that have had experience with plating will be happy to help.  Don't give up!  I want to see what you're doing! 

[Tina]

As others have stated, we are, indeed, fortunate to have Barry Masser as a member of this group.  A gifted stained glass artist, Barry has been a huge influence on me along my journey in glass.  His generosity of spirit and willingness to go the extra mile to help me with design challenges and glass suggestions have been a godsend on more than one occasion!!!

Re your questions:

1.   Don’t be concerned regarding the weight of the glass on a plated panel – just follow the directions, and put a frame of glass on the main level of the panel.  For example, on my “Tree” panel (Barry’s “Sundown” pattern and my first plated project), I built the glass framing from black waterglass and soldered it to the zinc framing as usual.  Added an extra layer of confetti glass on the front for a bit more of a leafy effect.

In “Folly Sunrise” (taken from one of our vacation pictures), there are two plated layers, and the framing was accomplished with an amber antique glass. 

The background and details on Bella’s feathers required textured glass plating for a more realistic effect and to make the background recede, thus highlighting the flowers and bird.

2.   When I did the “Sundown” panel, I foiled each piece individually as usual, and then, if I recall correctly, I used very little flux, tack soldered the levels together, and then filled in with more solder to “smooth the lines” a bit.  Be sure you patina the top of any layer BEFORE you attach the layers together, as failing to do this can be very noticeable in certain angles (don’t ask me how I learned this one the hard way )

3.   I did not wax my layers before assembling them as I believe this makes for much more difficult soldering, but maybe this is just personal preference. 

You might want to contact Barry directly with any more questions.  Good luck finishing your project, and let’s see some pictures!!!

Tina

[Kev]

Nice pieces Tina!

[Joe]

Beautiful!

[ct4mom]

Those are great Tina...I like the tree!

[glasisfun]

Very nice work Tina... thanks for all the advise.  I will let you know how it turns out.

[mmcoffey]

Very pretty pieces! :)