Glass Fusing & Etching

Glass Fusing

Glass fusing methods involve stacking, or layering thin sheets of glass, often using different colors to create patterns or simple images. This will take place at temperatures between 1100° and 1700° Fahrenheit (600° to 925° Celsius). Fusing is the process of using a kiln to join together pieces of glass. When continuation of heat applied to the glass, the glass will become more fluid and flow together. 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.

Glass Etching

In the 1920s a new mould-etch process was invented, in which art was etched directly into the mould, so that each cast piece emerged from the mould with the image already on the surface of the glass. This reduced manufacturing costs and, combined with a wider use of colored glass, led to cheap glassware in the 1930s, which later became known as Depression glass. As the types of acids used in this process are extremely hazardous, abrasive methods have gained popularity.

Typically, “glass etching cream” available from art supply stores consists of fluoride compounds, such as sodium fluoride and hydrogen fluoride (very dangerous). The fluoridation of the glass causes the characteristic rough, opaque qualities of frosted glass.

Abrasive sandblasting is also a common technique for creating patterns in glassware, creating a “frosted” look to the glass. High pressure air mixed with an abrasive material cuts away at the glass surface to create the effect. The longer the stream of air and abrasive material are focused in one spot, the deeper the cut will be. Sandblasting is often used for removing unwanted items that have stuck to the glass or as a decorative purpose on gifted and personal items.