Stained Glass Conservation
Stained glass is one of the most visually extraordinary and technically demanding of all the heritage crafts.
About Stained Glass Conservation
Stained glass is one of the most visually extraordinary and technically demanding of all the heritage crafts. Working across studio and site, a stained glass conservator researches, designs, fabricates and restores glass panels of immense historical and cultural significance. The craft spans glass cutting and painting, leading and soldering, historical research, condition reporting and on-site installation. The term covers all forms of lead glazing, leaded lights, quarry glazing, glass painting, enamelling, etching and sandblasting.
Typical earnings
Entry level: £20,000–£25,000 | Experienced conservator / senior artist: £35,000–£50,000+
Practitioners in this craft
Practitioner interviews are in production. At least one practitioner featured in each craft will be a woman working in that trade. If you know someone still practising this craft, or would like to be featured, get in touch.
office@craftgate.orgCareer pathway
Studio Assistant / Apprentice
Preparing glass, assisting with cutting and leading, organising the workshop
Safe glass handling, attention to detail, COSHH awareness
Glazier / Lead Glazier
Cutting and shaping glass, constructing leaded panels using lead came or copper foil
Glass cutting, accurate leading, soldering and waterproofing
Glass Painter
Applying glass paints, enamels and stains, firing in a kiln
Painting and drawing skill, kiln operation, colour theory
Conservation Glazier
Assessing and repairing historic panels - condition documentation, matching historic glass
Condition assessment, historical glass knowledge, conservation ethics
Stained Glass Designer
Developing original designs, drawing cartoons and cutline drawings for new commissions
Design skill, colour and light, client and heritage liaison
Senior Conservator / Studio Lead
Leading complex restoration projects, managing teams, specifying materials
Project management, report writing, team mentoring
Master Craftsperson / Studio Director
Running a studio practice, training the next generation
Full craft mastery, business operation, client development
Getting qualified
- ✓Level 4 Apprenticeship in Stained Glass Craftsperson
- ✓Short courses through the British Society of Master Glass Painters
- ✓IHBC-supported training for conservation-focused roles
- ✓A strong portfolio is more important than academic credentials when approaching studios
Find a placement
Ready to try Stained Glass Conservation for yourself? Browse available placements with verified hosts.
View Stained Glass Conservation placements← All craftsReady to learn?
Start the Stained Glass Conservation Foundation Pathway - 6 modules covering conservation philosophy to career qualifications.
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