Is your broken glass piece one that cannot be moved, or moved easily? (Usually this includes window and or door type structures.)

If yes, here are some tips:

1. Take photos of the piece - way back and up close, especially the break.

2. Locate two studios willing to do repairs on large pieces, as not all studios can accommodate large items.

3. Take photos and measurements to the studios. An estimate may not happen until the artisan has looked at the piece in place.

4. While visiting, ask to see other repairs completed by the studio.

5. Get the estimate in writing.

6. If there is a big gap in estimated costs, ask for detailed budget of repairs.

7. Remember, the further into the piece the break is the more costly the repair.

8. The older the piece of glass, the harder it is to match the glass color and style. Are you a perfectionist? Would you rather live with a crack than a shade off in the new blue glass?

9. Large pieces almost always have to be removed to be repaired.

10. Who takes it out (rarely the glass artisan!), what goes in its place - sometimes for a month or more, and who reinstalls the repaired piece?