Go sculptural! Are you an adventurous fuser ready to push boundaries and apply advanced techniques? If you answered yes, this project is for you.
The beauty of pattern bars is that they can be made in a wide variety of sizes, styles, shapes, and designs. The idea is to create a decorative element that can be cut into pieces and reassembled to make a unique and ornate focal point within your art.
Another nice thing about pattern bars is you can work small and still make a huge impact. So, don’t hesitate to try making your own decorative elements even if you’re new to fusing or have a small kiln. All you need is a little imagination and heat resistant material to contain your glass during fusing.
When I came up with the idea to fuse an inverted stack of glass, I wasn’t exactly sure what the resulting slab would look like. I didn’t let the unknown stop me from trying. I knew the hot glass would fill the open space in the container I created, but I wasn’t sure if the design would retain its linear appearance or if it the colors would blend together. As luck would have it, I got a little bit of both.
To make Reflection I stacked 16 pieces of glass. I started by cutting 3 inch wide strips from select opal glass colors and transparent glass colors. I also cut 3 inch wide strips of clear glass. The 3 inch wide strips were then cut to different lengths. No two pieces were the same length. I alternated color glass and clear glass. The glass was then stacked on the kiln shelf with the shortest piece down on the kiln first. Each consecutive layer was longer than the previous layer. It was like building an upside down pyramid.
Tip: When selecting my glass, I like to use a combination of opal glass, clear glass and transparent color glass. Each type of glass brings its own special facet to the pattern. Opal colors show off the intricacy of the pattern really well. Clear glass boosts the visual depth of the design, while transparent colors give the finished artwork a regal jewel tone quality.
When I fused the stacked glass, I contained it with ½ inch thick strips of fiber board. I use fiber board kiln shelves in my kilns. When they get damaged, I cut them down and use them as dams to contain thick glass. My firing guide is below.
Why do you have to dam the glass you ask?
When stacked glass is fired to the full fuse temperature of 1465 degrees it will spread out to a ¼ inch thickness. To construct thicker projects, we contain the glass with props, in this case fiber board. The fiber board is then held in place with kiln posts.
Tip: When I mention materials that I use in my kilns, like fiber board, I’m always referring to materials that I purchase from my art glass supplier specifically for kiln use. Don’t substitute other building materials from your local hardware store to save money. It will cost you in inconsistent results and possible kiln damage.
After the glass is fired the pattern bar was cut into long ¼ inch thick slabs with a wet saw. I use an inexpensive tile saw fitted with a wet blade for my heavy duty strait cutting. It’s fast, easy to use and gives me consistent results. The cut strips are then reassembled so the pattern on the left side is a mirror image of the pattern on the right side of the art. The glass is then fired a second time to a full fuse temperature. This bonds the pieces together and makes all of the surfaces shinny. I made two matching components. One will was used as the vertical portion of the sculpture.
I slumped the second component over a small block of ½ inch thick fiber board using the firing guide below. This element was then used as a decorative base to display the vertical portion. I glued the two pieces together with E6000 adhesive. I prop the project up and let the glue dry overnight.
Tip: Go the extra mile and build your own custom display bases for your special pieces of fused glass. It adds a personal touch that elevates the overall quality and sophistication of your artwork.
Pattern bars are a great way to add energy to your fused glass artwork. They’re easy to make and the number of design variations and color combinations is staggering. Plus, you can work small and still have dynamic results. Next time your kiln is sitting idle try an experimental pattern bar or two. Just watch out. The low pressure assembly combined with the thrill of unpredictable results is an addictive potion. I’m sure your new work will be both mysterious and magical.
Wherever you are in your artistic journey you’re doing great! We’re all learning new things every day. Keep going. Enjoy the journey.
Thank you for all the positive feedback about my blog and videos. It’s your kind and encouraging support that inspires me to keep sharing.
Happy Fusing!
Lisa
Reflection as seen in my, Advanced Glass Fusing video. This is one of 8 fun projects in my full length video. Download it now at www.LisaJVogt.com
Watch the, Reflection YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/NtYFb4PJnjQ
Fusing Guide
Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1300 and hold 30 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 500 F/hr to 1465 and hold 10 min.
Segment 3: Ramp 9999(AFAP*) to 960 and hold 40 min.
Segment 4: Cool to room temperature.
*As fast as possible
Slumping Guide
Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1265 and hold 10 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 9999(AFAP*) to 960 and hold 40 min.
Segment 3: Cool to room temperature.
*As fast as possible
NOTE: Kilns fire differently. Test fire these guides in your kiln and then make adjustments as needed.
Happy Fusing!
Lisa
Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!
Website www.LisaJVogt.com
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram @lvogt_originalsinglass
NEW Instagram through_the_artists_lens
NEW “Watercolor” Technique Webinar!
You’re home. I’m home. Let’s get together and fuse glass.
Watercolor Techniques & Advanced Fusing Design Webinar, May 28, 2020
Take your fused glass designs to an exciting new level!
Learn how to make gorgeous, vividly decorated nature themed fused glass designs in this comprehensive webinar. Master the art of design, pattern, and color.
Join me and I’ll show you how quickly and easily you can ramp up the visual intricacy of your work in just a few steps. I’ll share my personally developed, “watercolor style,” approach to shading and highlighting glass.
You will love the easy-to-follow instruction and seeing how I create elaborately detailed works of art with a gorgeous three-dimensional flair.
In this webinar you will learn how to use advanced artistic techniques like a pro. Beginner, intermediate and advanced fusers alike will enjoy applying the many simple, yet effective techniques I share in this in-depth, live event.
Fusing for the Adventurous Webinar, June 9, 2020
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1449-fusing-for-the-adventurous-with-lisa-vogt-june-9-2020.html
Get ready to push boundaries, challenge trusted techniques and enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities. Join me in this comprehensive hands-on webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely, innovative ways to create original art.
You’ll learn how to successfully employ different techniques to produce dramatic effects and take your work to an exciting, new level of sophistication.
Beginner and advanced fusers alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from the combination of techniques shown. In addition, you’ll receive a detailed outline with project specific guidelines and my custom firing guides.
Armed with your newfound skills, you’ll be eager to experiment and incorporate these techniques to turn your creative visions into reality. You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.
Now Registering!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop
September 22-25, 2020
Register today!
Only 1 seat available.
Register www.lisavogt.net
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.
It’s hard to describe what it’s like when I’m feeling the creative flow. Time flies. Hours pass in what I thought were minutes. My naturally distracted mind is focused on what my hands are doing, and nothing else. I get lost in my own world. When I return to reality, I feel rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted. That’s why I like sharing my studio space with others. I try to give them that experience and hope they feel the same inspiration and fulfillment I do. -Lisa
Join me and I’ll show you all the pro tips and tricks I use to make stunning 3-dimnesional art. You’ll learn how to combine advanced techniques in new ways to create extraordinary sculptural pieces of art.
You’ll leave class with several completed glass sculptures, my custom firing guides and a deeper understanding of sculptural fused glass fabrication. You’ll have the knowledge, confidence and inspiration you’ve been craving to take your artwork to the next level.
Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value! Plus, a professional photo shoot of your artwork is also included.
This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.
Here’s what the students are saying about the workshop.
“Instruction was clear, help was always available, and Lisa’s explanation of the equipment was great.” -Sherry
“My favorite thing about the class was the friendly atmosphere that encouraged open thoughts and sharing ideas.” -Lyn
“I enjoyed making all the projects, especially the flow piece and the freedom to be creative with our work.” -Joy
“My favorite thing about the class was the ability to see multiple pieces of art that originated from concepts taught.” -Vicki
“Lisa is very professional, knowledgeable and freakishly talented. House, art, mosaic, her work – really fun and beautiful.” -Lorna
“Incredible class. Lisa shared her artistic knowledge of color flow and her technical knowledge of glass.” -Larry
“I had so much fun! Lisa is a great teacher!” -Brenda
Things that surprised the students about the class.
“I was surprised by the photo booth demo-it was very helpful.” -Joy
“I was surprised by the limitless glass we had access to, for our projects.” -Lyn
“The valuable education on glass art photography surprised me.” -Sherry
“I was surprised by the hominess of your hospitality!” -Vicki
This class is for you! Any skill level can attend. Beginner, intermediate and advanced students alike will learn how to advance their glass fusing skills and expand their artistic style.
Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!
Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.
Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.
Lisa..as always, you are so wonderful about sharing your ideas..thanks from the bottom of my heart…mimi
Mimi, Thanks for your kind words. Chin up! xoxox Lisa