What is fused glass?

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what is
fused glass?

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Imagine a platter, a mask, a contemporary design… Colored Glass that is designed specifically for fusing is cut for the design. My designs are first cut from sheets of hand-rolled glass. Some pieces are accented with iridescent, or diachronic glass and some have copper and metal inclusions.

Once in the kiln, it is heated to temperatures between 1350—1750 degrees taking the solid glass to a flowing form. The glass is soaked at high temperatures for fusing, shaping or manipulating, then a cooling process anneals the glass molecules for the transition from liquid to solid. Depending on the process, a single piece can be worked in the kiln 2-3 times for combing, fusing and slumping.

The results… one of a kind glass designs with hot flowing color, creative curves, and effervescent beauty. Slight imperfections and wrinkles in the glass are characteristics of the hand-rolled process. Tiny air bubbles or “seeds” are created as the molten glass fuses together creating a unique pattern. No two pieces are exactly alike. All of the glass I use is lead-free and non-toxic. Hand washing is recommended. Each piece is signed by the artist.