Commissioning a piece of window art is not difficult, and Helix aims to make the proces easy and enjoyable.
Commissioned works can be created in collaboration with the clients to include their likes. This may include choice of favourite colours, the inclusion of symbols or text to obtain the overall mood and effect. You may already have an idea of a style that you want but if you haven't, Helix has a good source of design books that you can browse through to use as inspiration.
In order to obtain a free, without obligation, quotation you only need to provide rough estimates of the size of the window. If you live in the Crowthorne area Helix is able to visit you and take the measurements as well as advise on the choice of colours, which can alter according to the ambient light conditions. Where it is impractical to make a site visit Helix is still able to undertake the entire design and manufacture remotely, communicating entirely via mail, email or phone. The exact measurements are not vital for a quotation but are necessary before a panel is manufactured if it is to be fitted into an exact space.
When the panel is finished the client may collect it from the studio or we will arrange for it to be shipped via courier. For panels requiring special installation, we recommend using professional fitters as glass can be heavy in large sizes.
Design Development and Approval
After initial sketches by hand, Helix uses computer-aided drafting of designs to help show the basic concepts of the design to the client. 
This allows potential alternatives to be shown. Once the design is complete awritten quotation will be supplied and if required this includes full coloured, scaled presentations of the final panel as printouts or computer files, so that the client can see the overall effect of the final design. If requested, Helix can also provide actual samples of the glass proposed in the design to enable the client to see the colours and textures in-situ.
When the written quotation is approved, Helix will provide an estimate of the delivery time. Work will start on making the panel on payment of a 25% non-returnable deposit. At this stage exact window measurements may be required if these have not been provided earlier. Helix will advise the client how to do this prior to manufacture.
Note that it is advisable to allow as much time as possible when commissioning a stained glass panel because the process can take several weeks to complete depending on the size of the panel and the complexity of the design.
Panel Manufacture
Helix will make the panels at the workshop and welcomes clients to visit in order to view progress during the manufacture. The panels will be delivered either unframed or framed ready for placement.
Prices & Deposit
The cost of a stained glass panel or window will vary considerably and depends on the size of the finished work, the complexity of the piece and the glass used.
The basic techniques for making stained glass window art have not changed for nearly 800 years. Creating a panel is labour intensive with every piece of glass being cut to exact shape. The glass is then fitted into traditional lead housings, soldered then sealed with putty. Finally the piece is cleaned and polished.
Traditionally panels are priced by area and range from about £60 per sq foot for a simple geometric design to £120 per sq foot for more complex designs. Helix can work to a budget if requested, and modifiy designs to reduce the amount of very expensive glass types.
Installation is not included in the price. Helix are happy to advise on installation and may be able to recommend glaziers to assist with the installation.
The quotation is valid for three months. The outstanding balance is made prior to delivery. Full terms and conditions of sale are available on request.
