Local artist Jolton LaFore has turned a longtime passion into a new business with the launch of Glass Gardens NM, offering handcrafted stained-glass artwork ranging from small custom pieces to large, intricate designs.

LaFore, who has been working with stained glass since he was 19, said the idea to turn his craft into a business came after he and his family sold The Wildcats Den. “After we sold the Wildcats Den, I decided to use my spare time and couple it with a passion of mine which I’ve enjoyed doing for a long time,” he said.

He began selling his work earlier this year, relying mostly on word of mouth. He has since participated in several regional art shows, gaining familiarity with the local circuit. Glass Gardens NM is also active on Facebook and can be found by searching Glass Gardens NM, where LaFore posts new pieces, takes orders and responds to custom requests.

Recently, LaFore completed one of his most ambitious projects yet — an eight-piece stained-glass nativity set featuring Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus, the wise men, a camel and a shepherd boy. “I just posted it yesterday and it’s already getting a lot of comments and likes,” he said. The set, priced at $300, will be on display Dec. 6 and Dec. 13 at the Grace and Gathering Tea Room at Living Word Ministries with settings at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The event is $35 per person to attend. To reserve a spot at the Tea Room events, you can call (575) 613-8010.

LaFore will also showcase his work at the Questa Alumbra event on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Questa VFW Hall and at the Red River Christmas in the Mountains event on Dec. 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Red River Convention Center.

He welcomes custom orders of any size. Those interested can find Glass Gardens NM on Facebook and reach out by direct message or by commenting on his posts.