Learning Fused Glass

Earlier this month, I took an introductory workshop in fused glass.  Participants made small ornaments...the easiest for beginners was a bird.  We began by learning how to handle glass, what tools are involved in the craft, how to cut and grind glass, and finally - how to decorate it.  

To ease us in to cutting the glass, which is difficult to do, we had a practice sheet.  First, students cut glass strips followed by a variety of shapes.  Circles, are quite challenging.  They take a number of curved cuts to complete.  

Fused glass differs from stained glass in that fused glass is the layering of glass to create designs that is kiln-fired.  Stained glass, on the other hand, is made of glass cut into shapes and put together in a frame held together with solder.  The most notable stained glass are the works in church/cathedral windows -- some of which have been in existence for hundreds of years.  

That said, I came away with a far greater appreciation for all the artisans/makers of fused glass works and stained glass windows.  Especially for the latter, those artisans didn't have the tools I was introduced in this class that make the art far easier to do than what they probably had.  

Back to my project, for a first effort this ornament came out alright.  It has some problem areas from cutting and grinding issues.  That is all a part of learning something new.  It is a first step in an adventure that may include learning to make stained glass.  Wouldn't that be cool?  

If you are a stained glass artist or have experience doing it, what tips do you have for a prospective beginner?