Lead Casting and Milling at Salisbury Cathedral
4th September, 2026 | £88.00
A one day event dedicated to the manufacture and use of lead calmes in stained glass set in the inspiring surroundings of Salisbury Cathedral’s stained glass conservation workshop. Organised by the Conservation Working Group in association with Sam Kelly.
Sam Kelly ACR AMGP will share his working knowledge of traditional lead craft and current practice. Sam has worked in stained glass for 40 years, starting as an apprentice in 1977, becoming an Associate of the British Society of Master Glass Painters in the 1980s and later an Accredited member of ICON (The Institute of Conservation).
In the morning participants will receive an introduction to the use of lead calmes in stained glass, and the safety implications of working with lead. Next attendees will be able to observe close up as Sam goes through the whole process whilst explaining materials, equipment and techniques that he has developed over a long career at Salisbury.
After Lunch the day will continue with a guided walking tour and open discussion of the cathedral stained glass focusing on interesting or challenging lead work.
The day is primarily aimed at practicing stained glass artists, conservators and leaded light craftspeople who are interested in learning the traditional method for casting and milling lead calmes within a practicing conservation workshop. It is also open to those interested in allied heritage buildings crafts.
The training day will lead to a broader understanding of the traditional process of making lead calmes through observation of the whole process: from lead casting, milling and further refinement of the lead calmes. Training will also cover health and safety for working with lead, the historical context of lead manufacture, and attendees will be able to examine and identify the different profiles and their uses.
As ever with our in-person events there will also be the opportunity to connect with like-minded colleagues, and share frustrations and successful approaches. Informal drinks are planned after the event. More details to follow.
This once common but now rarely seen craft process will be observed first-hand by participants and captured by videographer Alex J Wright for wider dissemination after the event.
Early bird tickets are £74.80 for members (£88 non-members) before 31 July. Thereafter £85 for members (£100 for non-members). Tickets are strictly limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
Meet 10am on Friday 4th Sept 2026 at Salisbury Cathedral Works.
3 in stock