In a world that often trades tradition for convenience, Norwich-based Paul Chamberlain – known to his online followers as the Happy Gilder – has turned his passion for glass gilding into a thriving business and vibrant global community. Using traditional Victorian techniques, he crafts stunning glass signs and mirrors, breathing new life into a once critically endangered craft.
Lockdown led Paul to a desk job that limited his creative spirit. Having worked in creative industries for years, he felt the absence of a hands-on creative outlet. As a solution, he turned back to an old hobby: glass gilding, a technique once widely used to make intricate, hand-painted glass signs. His passion for the craft quickly reignited, and with a growing online presence, he began teaching others around the world through YouTube. His Happy Gilder YouTube channel now hosts over 100 videos that demonstrate the nearly-lost art of reverse glass gilding and etching.
Happy Gilder: Bringing a Lost Art Back to Life
Reviving an Endangered Craft
Glass gilding had nearly disappeared due to the rise of cheaper and more convenient materials like vinyl and plastic, which have replaced traditional, handmade signs. This shift has gradually made Victorian glasswork an “endangered craft.” But with the help of a grant from Heritage Crafts, Paul has contributed to the effort of moving it from a “critically endangered” to “endangered” status on the official list. He proudly says, “I have contributed to the effort in taking it from a critically endangered craft to an endangered one.”
His pride and dedication have culminated in one of his most remarkable accomplishments: creating a bespoke glass piece that now resides in the Tower of London. This unique artwork, etched with the iconic Yeoman Warder symbol and adorned with five shades of gold leaf, was a gift to the Yeoman Warders – popularly known as Beefeaters – as a thank-you for a memorable private tour and evening at the exclusive pub, The Keys. Reflecting on the experience, Paul remarked, “It was the most complex piece I ever made, and it took two months to complete. Being able to create something so special as a tribute to the people who hosted us felt incredible.”
Building a Global Community
Through his YouTube channel and an active Facebook group, Paul has not only taught thousands of followers but has also created a global network of enthusiasts who are learning, sharing, and preserving the art. Many of his followers have joined his Facebook group after discovering the craft through his channel, sharing photos of their own work, and celebrating their newfound skills. For Paul, seeing others develop a passion for the art form has been incredibly rewarding. “The amount of people who have joined the Facebook group and shared their work, having never known about the craft before, is something I’m very proud of,” he said.
Credit: Happy Gilder
Hobby First, Business Second
Though Paul has created a successful business, Happy Gilder remains a hobby-driven venture. He explains, “I’m not happy unless I’m making something. To combine my passion with running a business and helping people learn – it couldn’t be more fulfilling.” His dedication to the craft shines through, not only in his exquisite work but also in his desire to keep this historical art alive for future generations.
Whether you’re an artist, a historian, or just curious, Paul’s work is a reminder of the power of passion in preserving the past and inspiring others worldwide.
To support Paul’s work and his mission to preserve glass gilding, you can check out his YouTube channel.
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