Copper foil stained glass, often called the Tiffany method, is a technique used to join small pieces of glass with copper foil and solder. The process begins by creating or selecting a pattern, which is then cut into individual template pieces. Each template is traced onto specially selected glass, the glass is carefully scored using a glass cutter and then broken along the score line. After cutting, the edges of each piece are ground smooth with a glass grinder so they fit together accurately and allow the foil to adhere properly.

Once ground, each glass piece is wrapped around its edges with adhesive copper foil tape. The foil is centered and firmly pressed down using a burnishing tool to ensure good adhesion. The foiled pieces are then arranged on the pattern and secured in place. Small dots of solder are applied to tack the pieces together before fully soldering all seams. Soldering is done on both the front and back, creating strong joints and smooth or decorative lines.

After soldering, the piece is thoroughly cleaned to remove flux residue. A patina may be applied to change the colour of the solder lines, commonly black or copper. Finally, the stained glass is polished to protect the solder and give the finished piece a clean, glossy appearance.