The Fused Glass Process

What is Fused Glass?

Fused glass, also known as kiln-formed glass, is a captivating art form where pieces of glass are carefully arranged and then heated in a kiln until they melt and fuse together into a single piece.

The Process

Design & Cutting: Each piece begins with a vision. I carefully select colors and textures of glass, then cut them into precise shapes that will form the final design. I also use glass frit (small granules of crushed glass) to add texture and detail. I think of my pieces as painting with glass, using color, form, and light as my palette.

Layering: The cut glass pieces are arranged on a kiln shelf, layering colors and textures to create depth and visual interest.

Firing: The arranged glass is placed in a kiln and heated to temperatures between 1,400-1,500°F (760-815°C). At these temperatures, the glass softens and fuses together.

Cooling: The kiln is slowly cooled over many hours to prevent thermal shock and ensure the glass doesn't crack. This annealing process is crucial for creating durable artwork.

Finishing: Once cooled, pieces may be cold-worked (ground, polished) or fired again to add additional layers or create specific textures.

Why Fused Glass?

Each fused glass piece is unique. The way glass flows and interacts in the kiln creates organic patterns and color blends that can never be exactly replicated, making every piece truly one-of-a-kind.