September 2024

"Squirrel Feeder Picnic Bench"
 

The inspiration for this stained glass art project came from a picture I saw on social media of a squirrel sitting at a feeder designed to look like a picnic bench. It got me thinking—how could I have never considered that squirrels need a proper place to sit for their meals? I mean, seriously! How did it never cross my mind that they had no place to eat? hahaha!!! ;-)

 

Naturally, I knew I had to create one, but with a signature twist. To keep the food dry during the rainy season, I decided to add custom stained glass stained glass umbrellas!

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These two stunning stained glass umbrellas each measure 10 inches in diameter, crafted using traditional Tiffany cutting and foiling techniques. A sturdy 1/4" brass rod provides support, while custom-made spider fitters add additional strength to the structure.

 

What makes these pieces truly special is how they blend intricate glasswork with my passion for wood artistry. Every detail, from the carefully shaped glass to the handcrafted fitters, reflects my dedication to combining these two crafts into something both elegant and functional.

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• The first umbrella features a floral motif of a Dahlia flower and has 156 individual glass petals and took over 35 hours to complete from concept to completion.

• The second umbrella is inspired by the simple colour wheel using up scrap glass. It has 80 individual glass pieces and took around 20 hours to complete

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The bench itself is made from 112-year-old reclaimed lumber and measures 11" x 11" x 6". It’s finished with exterior deck stain for weather protection.

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