Archive for January, 2012
January 10th, 2012 | 
Author: Stained glass window panels can be used in a variety of applications; whether as a standalone piece hanging in front of a window or in a more permanent setting as a room divider. Whichever way you choose, these colorful works of art are the perfect way to add artistic flair to any space in both homes and work areas. Stained glass window panels are easy to shop for online since the selection is vast and it’s easy to narrow your selections based on designs, colors or measurements.
The allure of stained glass dates back to its inception in the 10th century. Some of the finest craftsmen were located in Syria, where pieces were made for kings and rulers in Greece and Italy. Popularity caught on quickly, and thus began massive installations in the design of churches and cathedrals. These creations, designed of colored glass artfully arranged to make intricate pictures and patterns, were meticulously crafted by skilled artisans and generally depicted religious or literary figures or referenced historical events.
The mystery of stained glass results from the addition of metallic salts during glass blowing. The outcome is an incredibly beautiful coloration that, when surrounded by lead foil, produces a unique artistic masterpiece. For example, adding cobalt creates a vibrant blue color, whereas copper oxides create a green glass. Modern techniques have replaced the addition of gold to produce glass with a red tone, substituting copper for a brighter result. A variation of the manufacturing process is to paint glass and fuse it in a kiln for permanent applications.
Because of the complicated installation process and the incredible weight involved in large finished pieces that adorned immense structures such as museums and cathedrals, the option to use stained glass window panels was found to be a less intensive option for displays. Current advances in manufacturing techniques result in pieces that are lightweight and easy to hang. When suspended in a window frame at the desired level, they bring tranquil beauty to any room.
Stained glass window panels are incredibly versatile. Traditionally used to add beauty to windows and bring a touch of artistic beauty to your home or workplace, they can also be installed into existing windows to enhance your décor and add uniqueness to your living spaces. Many owners treasure them as stand-alone pieces of art, however, preferring to hang them on a wall that needs some flair; wooden frames can be added to the panels just as you would a painting or wall hanging.
Kitchen cabinet inserts are another excellent option. Instead of lifeless, static wood doors, think of using simple glass panels to add sophistication to your cabinets. Existing furniture pieces such as bookcases and armoires that contain clear glass can be modified to incorporate stained glass window panels to replicate priceless antiques at a fraction of the price.
If you really want a statement piece, consider incorporating a stained glass window panel into a tabletop such as a coffee table or dining room table. The effect is incredible when matched with complementary napkins, glassware, and china.
Opaque glass can be used in cases where you need to prevent sunlight coming into your home and helps with privacy in applications such as bathrooms. The transparent look of water glass is a very popular choice in stained glass window panels, as it emulates ocean waves, with peace-inducing ripples that allow for privacy in bath areas and shower stalls.
Whether you use your panels in front of a window, as standalone artwork, as a room divider or incorporate the piece into existing furniture, stained glass is a medium that can really set your home apart from others in the neighborhood.
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A good Leather cleaning product is developed to work effectively. At the same time good cleaner will not damage the protective coating.
Leather is a unique product, much like our own skin, it needs very gentle treatment and not harsh chemicals to maintain.
Leather cleaning products should NOT be all purpose type cleaners. You cannot use all-purpose cleaners for leather. If you use all-purpose cleaners you risk damaging the protective coating.
Unlike the Tanneries of years ago today’s tanners do not use strong chemicals to tan hides. Due to environmental issues and health concerns Tanneries now use water based dyes to produce their leathers. Although this means that we have environmentally produced products, these hides need extra care and attention in order for them to give us many years of use.
Unfortunately leather cleaning products have NOT made the same progress and the majority of these products or leather care cleaners are not much different to all purpose cleaners.
Once upon a time, all-purpose bees wax, silicon based cleaners would do the job on the leather hides. Leather was tough and hard it was used in both industrial and domestic uses. Not today, today’s leather needs to be treated very much like our own skin.
Improper care, or the use of incorrect cleaners today can mean the difference of a leather lounge losing it’s life span by over 80%. This means that if you do not know how to clean your lounge properly then you will be looking to buy another one within 5 years time. This is an expensive forecast that can be solved by forking out a few dollars a year for the proper cleaning products.
Tanning has always been an art form. And part of that process is the advances that have been made by the companies that produce the chemical solutions to make leathers, soft, durable and environmentally safe to produce and use.
Likewise leather cleaning products should be researched and developed by professionals in that field. Much like Automotive paints that require special non alcohol or Ethanol based cleaners on them.
These cleaners should be applied to your leather with the peace of mind and assurance that they will be effective and safe.
The Cleaner should work by gently releasing the dirt from the surface of your leather and then effectively removing it. With NO damage to you leather.
A good Conditioner should be effective enough at replenishing your leather by making it feel soft and supple. The conditioner must also add moisture content to the hide eliminating the risk of the leather cracking and bringing it back to life.
DON’T RELY ON ALL PURPOSE CLEANER’S whether it’s a jacket, a leather bag, your prized automotive leather seats, or your leather office furniture or even the trusted couch that you have in front of the TV. GIVE IT THE TREATMENT IT DESERVES. Ensure that you are purchasing the correct leather cleaning products. At the very least you should familiarize yourself with how to clean your leather.