Some frequently asked questions

What is fused glass?

 

Fused glass or kiln formed glass is form of glass that have been melted together at a high temperature using a kiln to form one piece.

 

What is glass made from?

 

Glass or soda-lime glass is made from liquid sand (silica). Glass is composed of a primarily mixture of silica, soda (sodium carbonate), and lime (calcium oxide) that have been mixed and melted together at a very high temperature and then cooled.

 

What is the difference between fused glass and blown glass?

 

Although both methods involved the use of heat, the process is completely different. Fused glass is created by melting layers/pieces of glass on a kiln shelf or in a mould using a kiln whereas glass blowing is where a bubble of glass is taken from an extremely hot furnace using a pipe. The glass is then blown and shaped using tools.

 

What type of glass do you use?

At Glas och Blandat we use Bullseye glass which has been handcrafted and factory-tested for fusing compatibility. We use a mixture of glass powders, sheet glass, glass rods and compatible inclusions in all of our creations,

 

Is fused glass food safe?

 

Yes all of our dishes and platters are food safe. In addition where paints, dichroic or decals have been used, the item is capped with a clear sheet of glass for safety.

 

Is it dishwasher safe?

 

We recommend that our products are hand washed as not to scratch or damage any of the decorative features.

 

How to fused glass?

 

We usually start this progress by using either a base layer of clear or coloured glass which has been cut to size using a glasscutter. Dependent on the item and design pieces of glass, glass powders, decals, paints or inclusions such as metals are used. The item is then placed onto the kiln shelf and fired at around 804 degrees Celsius. At this temperature the individual components melt together to form one piece.

 

Dependent on the item the piece will then need to be fired again, this second firing is called slumping and requires a use of a glass mould. This is how we create our beautiful trinket dishes and bowls.

 

Fused glass uses?

 

Fused glass has a wide range of uses from jewellery, artwork, wall art to kitchen ware, the uses are limited to the individuals creativity!

 

We hope that we answered all of your questions but if not, please use the contact form to submit additional questions. Thank you for visiting Glas och Blandat!