Use balsa stips and cello sheets to create your own unique stained glass sculpture. This project also has an instructional video available!

Steps

• Step 1
  Each student will need two balsa strips. (One and one half 1/8 x 1/4 x 36" balsa sticks will create 5-6 rectangle shapes in assorted sizes. Rectangles shown here measure 2x1", 2x2", 2x3½", 2x4½" and 2x6". One package will be enough for about 15 students.) For the cleanest cut, use the Excel Mitre Box Set; however, a craft or utility knife may also be used. Cut sticks to chosen lengths and then mitre the corners. Glue the frames together with a
  low temp glue gun; making sure that all angles are square. When glue is completely dry, paint frames with ink or thinned acrylic, if desired.
• Step 2
  Choose cello sheet colors. Cut to the shape of each frame, leaving at least 1/4" excess. Coat the back of each frame with low temp hot glue. Press frames on top of selected colors. Allow cello to dry on frames. Trim excess cello from each frame with scissors. (One package of cello sheets should be enough for an average-sized class.)
• Step 3
  Arrange your sculpture. Mount frames to each other with a low temp glue gun.
• Step 4
  Cut a 5" length from the 3/16 x 3 x 36" balsa plank (one package will be enough for about 70 students) to create the base and stem. Cut off a 1/2" wide by 5" long piece for the center stem. Find the center point of the remaining 5 x 2-1/2" base piece and cut out a 3/16 x 1/2" hole that will hold the center stem. Determine the appropriate height of your sculpture and trim center stem to the correct length. Insert and glue stem, then paint. Glue
  sculpture onto the stem.

Products Used

• Balsa Strips, 1/8 x 1/4 x 36"
• Balsa Planks, 3/16 x 3 x 36"
• Excel Mitre Box Set
• Hygloss Cello Sheets