Rising Stars: Meet Andrea Knight of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Knight.

Hi Andrea, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was an art Education Major at Bowling Green State University in 1998 and took an “intro to stained glass class” as an art elective. I was instantly hooked on stained glass! The idea of painting with light, cutting and snapping the glass, the simple hand tools, using lasting materials, all of these things fulfilled my artistic needs and I knew I wanted to do more. The university, at the time, didn’t have more to offer than the intro class so I looked elsewhere. I took an apprenticeship with a studio in Zenda, Wisconsin in 1999. Leaving my formal studies to pursue the art of stained glass restoration.

Since my first apprenticeship I have honed my craft at prestigious studios across four states expanding my experience and knowledge and mastering the craft. During the nearly three decades while working with glass I have restored over a thousand stained glass windows in Churches all over the country. I have restored large courthouse domes, repaired and restored historic stained glass windows, and made many new custom stained glass windows for clients homes and businesses.

Having spent over ten years leading a major studio in Ohio, I reached a point where I wanted to offer more personal, artisan-driven experience. Leaving that management role allowed me to return to the workbench full time, founding Knight Stained Glass to focus on the restoration and custom design work I am most passionate about. Starting my own business in Cincinnati, Norwood had a great space to rent in a sleepy area surrounded by a Ceramic Studio, printmaking studio, and boat repair shop. Since opening I have been very busy with restorations, repairs, and custom new windows. There is never a dull moment and no job is too small. We are currently working on a large church restoration and looking forward to some design work on a new chapel in the summer.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My apprenticeship was very difficult. The man who mentored me, Walter, was very “old world” and taught in a very hands off and loud approach. It taught me to pay attention to every detail, only ask a question when I was really sure I couldn’t figure it out myself. He made me a very strong, assured, and detailed artist.

Moving from studio to studio in my youth was rewarding. Learning different techniques and tricks from other masters, and craftsman.

I always wanted to have my own studio but never thought that I could manage everything on my own, I have since realized that I can and I do, well.

Hard lessons, difficult teachers, blood, sweat, and tears all come together to make one incredibly able and unafraid. If it had been an easy road I would not be where I am now, somewhere I am most proud of with all of my accomplishments to show of myself in my own business.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in stained glass restoration. Taking a window defeated by time and weather and rebuilding it into a stronger version of itself is deeply rewarding. I take great pride in matching glass colors and ensuring I never alter the aesthetic created by the original craftsman; knowing a window will survive for several more centuries is an accomplishment I don’t take lightly.

With my new studio, I’ve also had the opportunity to focus on new, custom work. Designing a custom window alongside a client is a gift—from understanding their vision to seeing the piece finally installed in their home or office. Having my own studio allows me to build the personal connections I felt were missing in larger shops, making the entire process as enjoyable for the client as the finished piece is for their space.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I am always open to new restoration projects and custom commissions. Whether you have a historic window in need of structural repair or a vision for a brand-new piece of art, the best way to start is by reaching out for a consultation.

Work with me: If you have a project in mind, you can contact me directly through my website or social media. I love walking clients through the design and glass selection process to ensure the final piece perfectly fits their space.

Collaborate: I enjoy collaborating with local interior designers, architects, and contractors who are looking to incorporate authentic, handcrafted stained glass into their residential or commercial projects.

Support: The best way to support my studio is by spreading the word! Following my work on social media, and sharing my restoration stories helps keep this traditional craft alive in our community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.knightstainedglass.com
• Instagram: @knightstainedglass
• Facebook: Knight Stained Glass