Fused Glass

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Most contemporary fusing methods involve stacking, or layering thin sheets of glass, often using different colors to create patterns or simple images. The stack is placed inside an electric kiln and then heated through a "ramp" (rapid heating cycle) and "soak" (holding the temperature at a specific point) until the separate pieces begin to bond together.

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The longer the kiln is held at the maximum temperature the more thoroughly the stack will fuse, eventually softening and rounding the edges of the original shape. Once the desired effect has been achieved at the maximum desired temperature, the kiln temperature will be brought down quickly through the temperature range of 815 °C (1500 °F) to 573 °C (1000 °F).  It is then allowed to cool slowly over a specified time, soaking at specified temperature ranges which are essential to the annealing (hardening) process. This prevents uneven cooling and breakage and produces a strong finished product.

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The last stage, once all areas have had time to reach a consistent temperature, is the final journey to room temperature. The glass will remain in the unopened kiln until the pyrometer (kiln thermometer) reads room temperature.

After this process is completed, the glass is removed from the kiln, filed smooth, washed and embellished with crystals, wire, findings, feathers, etc.  It is then hand signed by the artist.

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