I began dabbling in glass in 1982 between finishing my degree and getting a job. I came across the Readers' Digest Book of Handicrafts one day and was drawn the section on making a glass terrarium. I'd never cut any glass or soldered before but it didn't occur to me that I couldn't, so I made a large terrarium as my first project (using completely unsuitable tools and materials!)
I was so impressed with myself, I went straight out and bought coloured glass to make a lampshade. I still have it - the glass that is! I got offered a job and didn't return to glass work for another 24 years!
Ten years ago I learned how to use lead came and now use both leading and copper foiling in my work.