Glass Restoration How to Repair Leaded Stained Glass Restoration of a Stained Glass Window from our workshop in Canada Before Restoration After Restoration The Restoration Process Step 1 Step 2 First we make a paper pattern of the stained glass piece to be restored. The glass is removed from the lead channel and cleaned, any broken pieces would be replaced at this time. Using the paper pattern (technically called a cartoon) the glass is replaced and re-leaded one piece at a time. Step 3 We do try whenever possible to use the original lead or copper when doing small repairs. Large restoration jobs usually mean that the lead has stretched or buckled, in situations like this it is advisable to replace the lead. Step 4 Step 5 It is a slow process and it can cost more to restore than to make a complete new panel. However, in restoring you keep the original glass; the beauty of which cannot be replaced by today's mass produced art glass. Step 6 In the time honoured tradition, each piece is held in place till the next piece of glass is added by horseshoe nails. Step 7 Step 8 For added strength we often frame our restoration pieces with zinc insted of lead. The customer does have the final say in this matter. Once together, the leaded joints will be soldered and the panel will then be cemented for added strength and weather proofing.