Caring for Your Glass

HANGING GLASS ART: I recommend that you hang your piece securely from a sturdy hook that has been screwed into a secure location such as a wall stud or wooden window frame. Suction cups are not made to hang larger, heavier pieces. If you are planning to use a suction cup for any piece, be sure to clean your window first. Stardust Glass Studio is not responsible for any damage caused by the failure of a suction cup.

 

CLEANING: Aside from the occasional dusting with a microfiber cloth, you may never need to clean your piece. If you need to clean your piece, do not use window cleaners or other chemical cleaners! These chemicals may damage the lead, solder, glass, and integrity of the piece. If you need to use some type of cleaner, I recommended warm water mixed with a little (blue) Dawn. Do not leave your piece soaking in water!

 

MOLD-LIKE TARNISH: From time to time, solder or lead will oxidize and leave a whitish substance on its surface. Don’t worry this is normal! Gently clean the solder with a soft toothbrush or microfiber cloth to remove the “tarnish”. Never put abrasive chemicals on your piece. If you can’t get the “tarnish” off, please contact Stardust Studios. We will walk you through the process!

 

RESEALING YOUR PIECE: I recommend that you reseal your piece once a year, so that it’s protected from that “mold-like tarnish”. I personally recommend original Lemon Pledge (in the spray can) or carnauba wax. Spray the wax on a soft rag to polish the metal and glass surfaces, followed by a microfiber cloth to buff it.

 

TOUCHING YOUR STAINED GLASS: Stained glass pieces are assembled with solder that contains lead, and some pieces are framed in lead came. Even though your piece is sealed when it’s finished, I always suggest that you wash your hands with soap and warm water after cleaning/handling your piece. Lead is a health issue when inhaled or ingested. Washing your hands after handling is considered sufficient precaution to prevent unwanted exposure. Please keep in mind stained glass pieces are not toys and should not be handled by children or pets!