about nfsg & its founder, Linn Check-Mathis

When I speak of north florida stained glass (nfsg), I feel a bit like Abraham Lincoln…you know, the part about the humble beginnings…because nfsg began in a small room of my home in 1981. Armed with $3,500, a 100+ sq. ft. area, and a love of glass, I started nfsg. I still remember how excited I was the first time my business phone rang…only to have it be a wrong number! By providing classes, supplies, workshops, a pattern club, a monthly newsletter, commissioned work, and a supportive group of workers, nfsg grew and grew. When I moved the shop out of the house, nfsg outgrew the next three store locations within 8 years allowing my work to grow in so many different directions. With so much growth, my FIRST love was getting squeezed out by all the other phases of the business. I decided at this point to simplify and refocus nfsg to the creative design and construction of stained glass.

Today, we work with architects, builders, and interior designers as well as individuals to create the perfect design for your home or office. Recently we made two transom windows for a dining room that was being “baked” by the morning sun pouring through those panes every day. The textured glass we used allowed the light to enter the room, but it diffused the direct, bright sun. Our client was pleasantly surprised when she discovered that the blues in the panel matched not only her Oriental rug, as she had requested, but also her dining room chair seats, which she had not considered. She felt she had a whole new dining room! Another couple purchased a church window in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary. They were surprised to find that we etched their wedding date into the inside of the wedding rings that were part of the overall marriage theme window. When we meet with you to discuss your stained glass or sandblast requirements, we pay close attention to your comments and input, as both matter a great deal to us.

Beyond design is the integrity of the work we create. We take the necessary time and materials to properly reinforce our panels. The durability that cannot be seen is critical. We build our glass projects to last because quality workmanship is an important element we put into ALL of our creations. We firmly believe that repeat business is our best advertising and take pride in the number of homes that have multiple pieces of our work. We believe that nfsg’s success is the result of almost 25 years of enjoying this business and loving what we do. It is still a thrill to try and come up with whatever it is that will make a panel just right.

I hope nfsg can assist you with your glass needs for doors, windows, transoms, shower doors, or cabinet panels. We will gladly provide a list of references should you request one. Please contact us with any inquiries, questions, and quote requests you might have.