Stained Glass Artist Notes on iPhone: Glass Color Records, Lead Specifications & Installation Notes

Stained glass combines color theory, light physics, structural engineering, and decorative craft. A panel that looks stunning on the light table may behave differently in the building — color shifts under different directional light, structural issues become apparent at large scale, lead deterioration begins from the first year of installation. The artist who produces work that lasts and satisfies documents the decisions that produce durability and beauty alongside each other.

What to Capture in Nemos

Glass Color Assessment For each glass sheet used: - Manufacturer and product line (Bullseye, Spectrum, Wissmach, Uroboros, antique) - Color description: hue under transmitted light, density, texture - Directional light behavior (does it shift under raking light?) - Compatible glasses for leading (expansion coefficient considerations) - Any batch variation notes

Color assessment notes build a glass library reference that informs design decisions before sourcing begins.

Design and Cutting Plan Notes For each panel: - Panel dimensions and shape - Dominant color palette and light transmission goal - Any unusual cuts or difficult shapes - Lead line design considerations (structural and aesthetic) - Cut sequence to minimize waste

Cutting plan notes are especially useful for complex panels where sequence affects yield.

Lead and Came Specification Records - Lead came profile: H-came width and heart size, flat came for border - Solder type and flux used - Panel reinforcement: rebar or zinc border - Cementing compound used and cure time - Any structural concerns for panel size

Structural notes protect the panel's longevity — under-reinforced panels for their size are the most common cause of long-term failure.

Patina and Finishing Records - Patina type: black antiquing, copper, lead gray - Application method and dwell time - Neutralization and polish approach - Result assessment

Finishing notes let you reproduce a successful patina result on matching or complementary panels.

Installation Notes - Installation environment: interior, exterior, vertical, horizontal - Mounting method: grouted, putty, silicone - Structural support framing - Expansion provision for thermal movement - Client sign-off at installation

Installation notes document the technical decisions that determine whether a panel survives its environment.

FAQ

Can I use Nemos offline at client sites? Yes. Full offline.

How do I document large multi-panel commissions? Create a note per panel with a top-level project note linking all panels. Tags by completion status keep the project dashboard clear.

Can I attach photos of panels under different lighting conditions? Yes. Document transmitted light, reflected light, and installed views alongside the material notes.

Is Nemos useful for repair assessment on historical windows? Yes — photograph and document damage type, location, and proposed treatment approach in a note per panel. This documentation supports conservation grant applications and client approvals.

How do I track glass inventory? Log sheet dimensions, color, and quantity in a note per glass type. Sufficient for studio inventory without requiring dedicated software.

Related Reading

• /blog/mosaic-artist-notes-iphone — glass material and installation documentation
• /blog/conservator-notes-iphone — historical material treatment and assessment records
• /blog/enamellist-notes-iphone — glass and color documentation patterns
• /blog/goldsmith-notes-iphone — precision craft commission and client documentation

Sources

• Stained glass technical resources: Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA) technical education publications
• Lead came structural guidelines: English Heritage conservation guidance for historic stained glass

Download Nemos free on the App Store.