Bevels

Clear glass bevels were used in relatively large quantities in Victorian era windows. Many beautiful examples survive today in fine old houses and older public buildings such as libraries, schools and municipal buildings of various types.

Those bevels were hand-ground by artisians who specialized in the work and who became proficient in producing, at times, intricate bevel work including curves, circles and the like.

The cost to duplicate this work by hand today is obviously prohibitive.

Automatic processes, however, can now produce bevelled glass at comparatively low cost.

It should be borne in mind that as few as one or two bevelled pieces can be utilized as a centerpiece or focal point in a window, and in many instances they can be used as border pieces in clear leaded window to add a luxurious touch.

We suggest using a lead came similar to our 8071 which has a face approximately 1/2", and a heavy web. Wider leads can be used, but they will tend to hide more of the bevel than you may wish.

Windows consiting of large portions of bevelled glass require additional support consisting of 3/8" or 1/4" diameter steel or brass rods, dowelled into the window frame on either side. Copper wires are soldered to the lead joints, and twisted around the reinforcing rod. (See locations marked "*" on drawing.)