06/08/2026
A little behind-the-scenes update from Forged from Ashe Studios:
Many of you know that I've been dealing with some frustrating issues with my stained glass kit distributor over the last several weeks. My first order, placed on May 7th, was finally received last week. However, my second and much larger order, placed on May 12th, is still nowhere to be found.
I've emailed. I've called. I've left messages. Unfortunately, I haven't received any response or update.
In the past, if items were on backorder, shipments would arrive missing those pieces and I would have to reach out to find out what happened. Customer service has never proactively communicated delays, so at this point I honestly don't know if the order is delayed, partially available, or lost somewhere in the system.
To make matters more complicated, the distributor has already taken payment for these orders. Because those funds have already left my account, issuing refunds is proving to be difficult while I wait for answers. If anyone is unable to attend a rescheduled class, I am more than happy to offer a gift certificate or class pass that can be used toward any future class or workshop at the studio.
Rather than continue waiting, I've been doing everything I can to keep classes moving forward. Last week alone I hand-cut over 200 stained glass pieces so I could prepare kits for a class that had been rescheduled for other reasons. Those kits are headed to Crazy Daisies for this Tuesday's class.
At the same time, life has been wonderfully busy in so many other ways. It's my daughter's senior year of high school, the studio is booking classes and events, I'm working hard to finish the Downtown Cortland Revitalization sculpture by the end of the month, I'm building out the old church I purchased by myself with a hope of moving in by July, and festival season is in full swing.
I'm incredibly grateful for all of it.
That said, if you've emailed, messaged, or are waiting for information from me, please know I'm doing my best to keep up. Some days it feels like I'm juggling stained glass, construction tools, spreadsheets, event schedules, and a whole lot of coffee.
Today is dedicated to catching up on computer work, responding to emails, and getting organized after spending the weekend tabling at an event.
Thank you all for your patience, your support, and for continuing to show up for my little creative business. It means more than you know. ❤️
And to everyone who has offered encouragement, flexibility, and understanding while I navigate these unexpected challenges: thank you. Small businesses don't survive because of one person—they survive because of a community, and I'm lucky to have such a wonderful one behind me.
-Ashe
