When beginning a commission Rachel will visit the site and discuss it with the clients. Her starting point is the architectural context and the quality of light in the space.
The research and design process can take at least as long as the manufacturing work, sometimes longer. Once the design is resolved she produces a watercolour of it, and then the life size ‘cartoon’. The design, however, can still evolve as Rachel works on the glass, and sees the colours next to
each other.

Rachel uses sandblasting, engraving, painting, staining and enamelling techniques. The glass is fired in a kiln up to three times to achieve the desired effect. Only the best quality materials are used, and all the glass is hand-made to give the window sparkle. The glass is then leaded together and soldered before being cemented. The window is at last ready for installation. There is an anxious moment – will it fit? Will the clients like it? And finally some reflection – what worked well, what has been learnt, what would be different next time. It is through commissions that Rachel has developed her skills and style, and been able to practice her craft.

The illustrations of the Stained Glass Process are from the mid nineties when Rachel had a studio in Teddington. She illustrates from memory and is inspired by medieval artists.