ABOUT

A Modern Take on Stained Glass: Passion, Precision, and Playfulness

MISSION & COMMITMENT

At Vagabond Glassworks, we are committed to nurturing a dynamic and inclusive community for stained glass artisans at every stage of their journey. Our curated workshops and classes are designed to accommodate diverse schedules, offering a welcoming space for creatives to reignite their artistic passion with handmade crafts. In addition to our vibrant physical hub, we extend our dedication to the online sphere with custom commission requests, as well as craft fairs and pop-up events, where we proudly showcase commissioned and one-of-a-kind stained glass art pieces.

Our Story

Where Life’s Adventures Meet Art: My Story and Yours

After leaving the military in 2015, I found myself drawn to stained glass, and it quickly became a passion that took me on a creative journey across continents. Now, with over 10 years of experience and self-taught, I've brought that passion home to create Vagabond Glassworks in Fort Belvoir, a vibrant and welcoming space where people of all ages and skill levels can reconnect with their creativity. Inspired by my own experiences navigating life’s ups and downs, I wanted to build a place where anyone looking to reignite their creative fire can do so in a fun, supportive environment.

it’s not just about learning stained glass—it's about rediscovering a part of yourself and connecting with others who share that spark.

Whether you're joining a class or commissioning a custom piece, I’m here to help you tap into your inner artist and create something truly special for yourself or a loved one.

Ruth Neall on the corner of a railing facing the turquoise ocean, with arms spread out in bliss.

vag·a·bond

/ˈvaɡəˌbänd/

noun

A person who wanders from place to place without a settled home.

So, Who Am I Beyond a Stained Glass Artisan & Instructor?

  • Proud Veteran

  • Mom of five—three are children and two are labradors

  • I’ve lived in 3 countries and 3 states

  • I unwind with shows like Game of Thrones, Handmaid’s Tale, and (as much as I hate to admit it) The Kardashians—it’s background noise tbh

  • I can watch The Sandlot on repeat, all day, every day

  • I’ve listened to Trey Songz’s Ready album about a million times

  • In the few moments that I actually get to myself as a busy mom juggling multiple schedules, I enjoy running errands alone and stopping for an iced coffee

If you’ve been craving something more than the usual grind and yearn to work on something creative with your hands, then now is the time to quench that creative thirst.