Powdered Glass and Stencils – Fused Glass Lessons Learned

Below are before and after photos of some part sheets I made using powdered glass. For two of the sheets I used some keys placed on the glass as a stencil. For the other sheet I used a razor blade to “cut” in the design. I am looking forward to using these in some future designs. Follow me on Facebook to see what becomes of these.

Lessons Learned:

  • Powdered glass works better than fine frit.
  • Creating handles from tape helps in removing the stencil.
  • It is difficult to get an even application of powder, though I rather like the uneven look. I think it gives it more of an antique look. But if it is even you are after then look for the Bullesye Online Education video series. It has a good video on how to work with frits and powders.
  • Allow more room around the edges of the design. Because this is one layer of glass the edges will shrink in when fired. Later, when incorporating the part sheets with other glass, I cut off the edges to get an even straight edge on the glass.
  • It always takes more powder than I think to get the result I want.

Keys After Firing

Keys Before Firing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bullseye Kiln-glass Education Online

 

13 thoughts on “Powdered Glass and Stencils – Fused Glass Lessons Learned

  1. Stephanie says:

    I love how you used the keys to make stencils. I’ve done the razor blade through powder, but only with black powder. I think I apply too much to get the effect I want. I want a light coating that I can layer over a stripe of solid colour for a 2 dimensional look.

    If the even application thing ever bothers you, get a silkscreen. My mother gave me one, because I wanted to try screenprinting on glass, and I haven’t coated it. However, it works great to do a smooth application of powder to the glass. Just make sure you elevate it 1/8″ or more above the glass, or the powder won’t go through. You don’t even have to press hard, just gently drag a flat piece of cardstock across the silkscreen and powdered frit.

      • Stephanie says:

        I want to take the screenprinting class at Bullseye (I live in Portland) but I haven’t had the time or money. But I have watched the videos and seen the demonstration, so I was able to get an idea.

        Screens are cheap, you can get them online, and any basic screenprinting screen works. I think mine is a 100 or a 137

        • Margot says:

          I would love to take a course at Bulls Eye some day. It’s on my list. But for now, the videos will have to do for me too. Thanks for the info on the screens. I will look into that.

  2. Lesley Terry says:

    I live in Wangaratta , Victoria and would like to do some powdered glass art workshops , I have googled but havent found anything yet, can you suggest some classes? regards lesley

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