The Tiffany method is when you cut and grind the glass and then wrap the edges with a tape that is sticky on one side and has copper on the other. Then you put the pieces down on your pattern, pin them in place and solder the pieces together. The solder will only stick to the copper, no the glass.
You only need to use lead came around the edges to hold the piece in place.
Tiffany came up with the method (probably not as advanced/easy as it is today) and that is how he was able to make the intricate details in his works. If you want to make a lamp, you buy styrofoam molds to put your pattern on and solder your pieces together that way.
I did a quick Google and here is a site I found that will give you more info. I didn't read it carefully, but it looks like it's a good start to learn the method.
http://www.warner-criv.com/techtips/copper.aspx
Edited to add: My father's family is German, so I love the food and learned a few things from my Grandmother.... any favorite recipes you want to share?