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Welcome to Living Sun Glass. I’m so glad you’re here.

Whether you’re just beginning your journey with stained glass or you’ve been crafting for years, I believe there’s always something new to discover — and I’m here to support you as you grow.

Maybe you learned the basics in a local class… or maybe, like me, you taught yourself, piece by piece, with determination and curiosity as your guide. However you found your way into this beautiful art form, you deserve a creative outlet that brings you joy, confidence, and a real sense of accomplishment.

Samantha Calder smiling in her stained glass studio, standing over a lightbox with a lion-themed glass painting in progress.

Stained glass found its way into my life back in 2005, and what started as a creative spark quickly grew into a lifelong craft. I’ve been learning ever since. And it’s been my privilege to help others along the way.

At Living Sun Glass, my mission is to help you build not only your skills, but also your understanding — so you can approach your work with both knowledge and freedom. Because when you know why we do something a certain way, not just how, it opens the door to deeper creativity and fewer roadblocks.

You don’t need to be “naturally artistic” or have decades of experience. You just need the willingness to keep learning and the right guidance to get you there.

Why I Do This

Teaching has felt like a calling since I was a teenager. I once imagined myself in a traditional classroom, guiding students through music — but life had other plans. Even as my path shifted, that drive to share knowledge in a meaningful way never left me.  

Samantha Calder applying powdered frit to glass with a paintbrush during a stained glass project in her home studio.

I didn’t grow up in a family of teachers, but I was surrounded by makers — woodworkers, a turner, a ceramist, and later a woodcarver — all of whom passed down a respect for craftsmanship and working with your hands. That legacy shaped my appreciation for the learning process: how we experiment, refine, and problem-solve through doing.

But the real root of my teaching lies in something even deeper. I’ve always needed to know why — not just how. Even as a child, I couldn’t remember a method unless I understood the reasoning behind it. Once the “why” clicked, the rest came naturally. It’s the same with glass. Curiosity and exploration grow from understanding.

That’s why I teach the why behind the how. Because when you grasp the reasoning behind a technique — or what causes a problem in the first place — you’re not just following steps. You’re building real skill, confidence, and creative freedom.

What I Believe

I believe stained glass is more than just technique — it’s a craft that feeds the spirit, sharpens the mind, and offers a deep sense of satisfaction.

That’s why I focus on teaching both the how and the why. Knowing how to solder is one thing; understanding what makes a good bead of solder (and why it matters) is what builds real confidence and consistency.

I also believe that:

  • Creative time is essential. It helps us release stress, reconnect with ourselves, and find peace through focused, hands-on work.
  • You deserve an outlet that brings both pride and peace. Seeing light shine through something you made is more than satisfying — it’s soul-filling.
  • Learning should feel joyful, not stressful. Mistakes aren’t failures — they’re part of the process. And with the right support, they become stepping stones.
  • Growth comes from understanding. The more you know about your tools, materials, and process, the more empowered you’ll feel to experiment, improve, and truly enjoy the journey.
  • You deserve to feel proud of what you make. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, there’s always more to discover — and every step forward is worth celebrating.
In-progress stained glass artwork featuring bright yellow sunflowers with brown centres and green leaves, arranged on a pattern template with tools nearby.

What I Know

I know what it’s like to wrestle with a piece of glass that just won’t fit — even after three tries. I know the frustration of solder lines that never seem to smooth out, no matter how carefully you work on. And I know the kind of doubt that creeps in when you wonder if you’ll ever feel confident in your work.

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

These struggles are part of the process — not signs that you’re doing something wrong, but proof that you’re learning, growing, and stretching your skills. Every glass artist (yes, even the seasoned ones) has been right where you are.

The good news? With the right guidance, a little patience, and a willingness to keep going, all of it gets easier. And bit by bit, you’ll start to see the results: cleaner cuts, smoother solder lines, and that unmistakable feeling of, “I made this — and I’m proud of it.”

Who This is For

Whether you’ve never held a glass cutter or you’ve been making for years, my approach is built around meeting you right where you are.

  • Maybe you’re self-taught and wondering if you’ve been doing things “right.”
  • Maybe you’ve taken a few classes but still feel unsure about certain skills.
  • Or maybe you’re ready to go deeper — to expand your abilities, explore new techniques, or even start selling your work.

Whoever you are, if you love stained glass and want to build your skills with confidence and purpose, you’re in the right place.

I work with hobbyists who crave clarity, with artists who want to refine their techniques, and with learners who value both the why and the how. My students come from all backgrounds, ages, and experience levels — the one thing they have in common is a deep appreciation for the craft and a desire to grow.

If that sounds like you, I’m so glad you’re here.

My Goals for You

Stained glass is more than a hobby — it’s a source of joy, challenge, and deep creative satisfaction. My mission is to help you experience more of all three.

  • I want you to grow your skills with clear, practical instruction that helps things click.

  • I want you to feel confident — not just following steps, but understanding the why behind them.

  • I want you to tackle those dream projects that have felt just out of reach, and know that you can handle them.

  • And above all, I want you to find more joy in your time at the workbench — fewer frustrations, more flow, and the deep satisfaction that comes from making something beautiful with your own hands.

When you’re supported and informed, stained glass becomes even more rewarding. That’s what I’m here to offer.

Community & Connection

Learning stained glass doesn’t have to be a solo journey.

Before stepping into the online world in 2017, I had the privilege of teaching over 350 students in person through classes held in my home studio. Since then, I’ve helped hundreds more through live online workshops, one-on-one sessions, membership programs, and a growing library of courses, tutorials, and recorded workshops.

I also host a free Facebook group called Make Stained Glass, where you can:

  • Connect with others who share your love of the craft
  • Share your works-in-progress and celebrate your wins
  • Ask questions, get encouragement, and learn from fellow makers

It’s a supportive, welcoming space for all skill levels — a place to grow, share, and stay inspired as you explore this beautiful art form.

Past in-person stained glass students smiling and holding their finished creations during workshops taught by Samantha Calder.

While I no longer teach in-person classes, these smiling faces remind me why I love teaching. Today, I share the same joy and guidance online—with students around the world!

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're feeling inspired to grow your skills, build your confidence, and enjoy stained glass even more — I’d love to support you on that path.

When you subscribe, I’ll send you my free video, 3 Steps to Smoother Solder, so you can start seeing better results right away. You’ll also receive regular tips, encouragement, and insights to help you along your journey — no pressure, just helpful guidance from someone who’s been there.

Are you with me?

Let’s make something beautiful together.