The 10-panel vintage window survived the trip from Orange, California to the Midwest. It’s a pretty big window at 5′ x 2′ ft … which meant this piece would take a huge bite out of my vintage glass collection.
The vintage windows I look for have to be sturdy, with clear glass that doesn’t wiggle or show separation (rotting) from the frame … not even a little bit.
I use a clear adhesive to glue the glass to the glass, in a well ventilated room, with a wheeled tile cutter, a small hammer – on a sturdy surface – wearing safety glasses with a first aid kit near by … but not children or pets. Safety First – Always wear safety glasses when breaking or cutting random glass dishes, cups and/or glass objects. Depending on the type of glass they can and some will shatter in a bazillion pieces … maybe more. Be careful.
Clean the window with a vinegar & water mixture – a couple of times – and let it dry. Glue glass pieces into place filling in with cut glass pieces, clear glass gems, marbles and the like …
When a certain artist who creates windows, mirrors, tables & bowls decorated with images, glass, trinkets, tile fragments & often hidden words in the designs was asked what her artwork meant to her she said: “I think I like it because it tells so much about my story.” Or anyone’s life, for that matter… “Life smashes things to bits and you glue it back together to make something beautiful with the pieces.” – author unknown