The Restoration

The workshop is proud to preserve the craftsmanship of master glassmakers by applying this ancestral expertise and unique artistic heritage every day.

With a team boasting over 30 years of combined experience in glass and stained glass work, the workshop is capable of handling major public contracts (restorations of churches, cathedrals, castles, etc.) as well as private projects (glass roofs, windows, doors, skylights, partitions, etc.).

Equipped with all necessary certifications and tools, the workshop operates independently up to heights of 12 meters. Beyond this, specialized scaffolding teams take over the installation of structures and access points, ensuring safety and compliance. While the team primarily operates in Occitania, they are also prepared to work anywhere in France when needed.

Stained glass restoration in 11 steps

1. Diagnosis and, as needed, consultation with a blacksmith, stonemason, or carpenter.
2. Disassembly: the lead cames are carefully removed to free each preserved piece of glass.
3. Cleaning: the cleaning process varies depending on the age and type of stained glass (using bioethanol, thiosulfate, demineralized water, etc.). Goal: restore clarity and light!
4. Repair: to preserve original broken glass, we use resin, adhesive, or copper foil depending on the damage.
5. Reconstruction: if sections are missing, we recreate the designs in perfect harmony with the original decor.
6. Decor and ornamentation, grisaille painting: using grisaille and metallic oxides, which are fixed through firing.
7. Firing in a kiln (620–640°C).
8. Re-leading: folding, smoothing, and soldering.
9. Puttying: applying liquid putty that penetrates underneath the lead to ensure full waterproofing.
10. Drying: a three-week period is required for proper drying of the putty.
11. Installation: the stained glass is reinstalled panel by panel for large windows, reinforced with specific metal armatures (barlotiere and vergette), and sealed at the edges with lime or plaster mortar.

« To restore and recreate, one must be a skilled forger! Sometimes, aging and patina must be replicated. A daily challenge to get as close as possible to the original. »

Our references

Certified to undertake public contracts for the restoration of historical monuments and notable elements of French architectural heritage (cathedrals, churches, castles, etc.), the workshop has completed nearly 200 projects since 2004.

In the region

In pictures