From day one, I knew I would not make much as an artist/craftsman and that there was a good chance I would not be able to make it my occupation.

I’ve been told I have a gift. If I do, it’s an overabundance of perseverance.

Cutting glass is essential in my art; one’s skill and productivity determine one’s livelihood.

Stained glass is an inconsistent material, not only in one sheet but also throughout the sheet, as the various colors, in varying amounts, take their place.

Running a small metal wheel around my pattern takes much skill and concentration. If you go outside the pattern, my window will extend past my intended borders, cutting the pattern short, and the opposite will happen.

Here is my collection of glass pliers, which I use to break the score line on inside and outside curves and extra-thick glass.

I suggest people new to cutting glass go slow and train their eyes by focusing on the little wheel and its relationship to the pattern. Then, pay close attention to every move you make, figuring out how each approach and forward motion increases or decreases the time it takes to complete each piece of glass.

Of course, this approach is the same for the other tasks needed to complete the window. The goal is to finish in a time that allows some of the budget to be there so I can continue to make this my living.