• Is glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures from 593 °C (1,099 °F) to 816 °C (1,501 °F). There are 3 main distinctions for temperature application and the resulting effect on the glass.
• Firing in the lower ranges of these temperatures 593–677 °C (1,099–1,251 °F) is called slumping. Firing in the middle ranges of these temperatures 677–732 °C (1,251–1,350 °F) is considered “tack fusing”. Firing the glass at the higher spectrum of this range 732–816 °C (1,350–1,501 °F) is a “full fuse”.
• All of these techniques can be applied to one glass work in separate firings to add depth, relief and shape.
Each piece goes through steps that include design, kiln firing and cold work. No two pieces are the same.
The design phase begins with inspiration followed by planning for the desired effect. This includes making decisions about color, pattern, size, and function. Both inspiration and planning are important to ensure pieces are aesthetically pleasing and of high quality. I select the glass, plan for a specific mold, cut and layout each piece and prepare a schedule for the initial firing. Flame worked elements are generally made at this time.
The glass is fired to temperatures between 1200-1700° Fahrenheit. It is carefully heated and cooled to ensure the durability and quality. This process takes anywhere from five hours to several days, depending on the volume of glass being fired. On average, my work takes one day to fire and two to three firings to complete.
