Making stained glass;: A handbook for the amateur and the professional

As one who has had the pleasure of knowing Robert and Gertrude Metcalf while they were professors at Antioch College, and of having seen their beautiful work, I can see in this superb handbook the artistry of design and the love of their craft that distinguished the work and the teaching of these fine artists. The book is well-illustrated with photographs (including 8 pages of color plates), and drawings. It covers all aspects of making stained glass in a manner that even inexperienced hobbyists can follow. Divided into four sections, the book covers the origin and history of stained glass, including a classification of the periods, styles and the various types of windows; a comprehensive list of materials and tools; how to set up one's own shop; and what the authors have called the Evocative Technique, which guides the craftsperson on how to work one's own designs into glass. Projects are included that increase in complexity, so that there is much here for those who have already covered the basics. Anyone interested in the history of stained glass making, or wanting to either improve upon or begin developing this fine art, will find this work indispensible. It is clear that this book was for Gertrude and Robert a work of art in itself. I recommend it highly.