This workshop introduces you to the skills and techniques involved in glass fusing and slumping.

Over the course of the day, you will complete two projects:

• A flat fused piece

• A fused and slumped platter or bowl, which will undergo two separate firing processes

You’ll have the opportunity to familiarise yourself with different glass materials and experiment with a variety of techniques to create your own fused glass art.

 

The Two Projects

Project 1: Flat Fused Piece

In this project, you’ll practise and improve your glass cutting skills. You’ll use a strip cutter as well as try freehand cutting of shapes.
The correct use of glass cutting tools and pliers will be demonstrated.

You can choose to create one of the following:

• Small wall hanging

• Set of coasters

• Mirror frame

• Light catcher

• Wind chime

 

Project 2: Fused and Slumped Platter or Bowl

In this project, you’ll learn techniques to design and assemble your own sheet of art glass. We’ll discuss how to assemble your design, explore the “6mm rule”, and experiment with a range of materials including frits, confetti, and stringers (which you’ll also have the chance to melt over a flame).

 

Your piece will be fused and then slumped using suitable moulds, which will be discussed and prepared during the workshop.
We’ll also cover firing schedules for glass and the processes involved in both firings.

 

Skills & Techniques Covered

• Melting of glass and understanding the 6mm rule

• Explanation and correct use of glass tools

• Glass cutting techniques

• Fusing and assembling techniques

• Flame-melting stringers

• Preparation of moulds for slumping

• Understanding firing schedules for glass

 

Materials

Materials are not included in your booking fee.
All materials will be provided by the tutor at an approximate cost of £35–£45, depending on how much glass you use. This fee also includes all firing costs and is payable directly to the tutor during the workshop.

Your completed projects will be taken away for kiln firing and posted back to you at a cost of £8.

 

Please note:
Your tutor may not have facilities to take card payments for materials. Remember to bring cash or a cheque book if your course involves purchasing materials directly from the tutor.