Lisa Vogt - Lisa J Vogt

Posted on December 15, 2020 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

Glitzy Ornament How-to

The magical thing about glass fusing is you can work with the same materials for years and all it takes to fascinate you again is the introduction of a new component. The round Christmas ornament is far from a unique design. But add a new twist, a little bling and amazingly you have a delightfully fresh version of an old favorite.

At this hectic time of year, we’re all looking for fast and flashy projects that make great gifts. These easy to make ornaments are your ticket to wonderfully productive studio time. What makes these simple pieces so attractive is the paring of traditional holiday colors along with lively patterns.

Making the Ornament Bowl

Begin by cutting a 9-inch circle of clear glass for the ornament base. Cut 2 clear pieces of glass to represent the bail of the ornament. Select your murrine and cut it into 1/8-inch-long bits with mosaic nippers. Choose your holiday colors and cut them into strips. Arrange the strips on the clear base. Separate the cut strips with twisted cane. For added interest, include a strip of murrine.

Then, just for fun, rearrange your materials. Try different combinations until you have a pleasing pattern. I love this spontaneous type of assembly as it always produces a more dynamic design than I originally imagined.

Using a 9-inch round paper pattern as a guide, draw the circle shape on the strips and cane with a marker. Cut the strips and cane to fit neatly on the clear base glass. Cut clear dichroic to represent the bail of the ornament.

Cut narrow strips of dichroic on clear. Arrange the dichroic strips on the wide band of color to make the snowflakes. Be sure the dichroic coating side is down so it won’t scratch when the bowl is used.

Place the assembled glass in the kiln on a primed or shelf paper lined kiln shelf. Stack the 2 clear bails beside the circle. Overlap the white and the clear bails with the dichroic bail to bridge the parts when fused.

Making the Dichroic Ornaments

I plan to use these little beauties as festive spoon rests in the kitchen. The dichroic coating is fragile and will scratch if not protected by clear glass. When making functional art with dichroic glass, I assemble the projects differently. Unlike the first ornament, which was built on a clear base, the base of these small decorations will be made up of pieces. The pieces will then be capped with a single piece of clear glass to ramp up the dichroic colors and protect the coating from scratches.

Begin by cutting 4-inch circles out of clear glass. Cut 2 bails for each of the ornaments out of clear glass. Set the circles and bails aside. Cut a fun assortment of 4-inch squares of dichroic on black into strips. Rearrange the strips to make four unique ornament designs. Add a few twisted canes for a lacy effect. Turn any textured glass strips over. Using the clear circles as a guide, trace the circle shape on the back of the dichroic strips with a silver marker. Cut the glass and cane to match the circle. Turn the cut glass over and rearrange the strips and cane. Cut a bail for each ornament out of dichroic on clear.

Place the dichroic and cane layer in the kiln on a primed or shelf paper lined kiln shelf. Cap the dichroic glass with the 4-inch clear glass circles. Stack the 2 clear bails beside the glass. Overlap the clear cap and the clear bails with the dichroic bail to bridge the parts when fused.

Full fuse all five ornaments using the guide below.
If any of the circles are uneven, grind the edges as needed to improve the shapes.
Place the fused glass in slumping molds. Slump using the guide below.

I love including functional art in everyday life. And the kitchen, being the hub of family activity that it is, is a great place to enjoy personal, hand-made holiday decorations.

Check out the Glitzy Ornament Video Here!

Fusing Guide
Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1300 and hold 30 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 500F/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, adjust as needed.
Here’s the glass I used to make these ornaments.
Glitzy Ornament Bowl, 9 Inch Round

Oceanside Glasstile 96
Clear, 100SF, 1 Sq. Ft. for Base
White, 200SF, ½ Sq. Ft for Design
Dark Green, 220-76SF, ¼ Sq. Ft for Design
Flame 60-602-96, ½ Sq. Ft. for Design
Twisted Cane, Assorted colors, 17 for Design
Murine, Red, White & Green, 1 for Design
CBS Dichroic on Clear, Scrap

Glitzy Ornament Dishes, 4 Inch Round
CBS Dichroic on Black
Assorted colors, 4 – 4 Inch x 4 Inch for Base Layer
Clear, 100 SF, 1 Sq. Ft for Second Layer

Ceramic Slumping Molds
1 – 10 Inch x 10 Inch Square
4 – 4 Inch x 4 Inch, Square

Happy Holidays!
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
Instagram @through_the_artists_lens

Upcoming Webinar

Interwoven as seen in Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar

Fused Glass Sculptures January 14, 2021

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks!

Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art. You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share. You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Best of all, you’ll have an exclusive technical advantage with the advanced understanding of my dependable firing programs. And you’ll love the stunning three-dimensional results you can achieve by fusing all of these concepts together.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work.

In addition, you’ll have a working knowledge of kiln operation, custom firing guides, and a deeper understanding of sculptural glass fusing fabrication.

You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool self-confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.

Join me January 14, 2021 for fusing, fun and a welcome opportunity to fuse glass with other enthusiastic glass artists around the world.

NEW DATE!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop April 27-30, 2021
Register today! 4 seat available. Register here!
Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.
This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

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

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.

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!

Here’s what the students from my recent November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

“There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane

“My favorite thing was Lisa’s knowledge and wealth of information. I was surprised by how many projects we made. I was very comfortable with the classroom set up and loved everything about this class. I learned so much and it was fun. My least favorite part was Friday at 4:00 pm.” -Liz

“My favorite thing about this class was the variety of glass and other materials. Unlimited dichroic! I was comfortable with the classroom set up; Lisa had lots of little personal touches that made it special. Thanks for the wonderful lunches!” -Gail

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.” -Christine

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

NEW Artwear Designed for Artists by Artists Tell them how you really feel with bold T-shirts, Eco-conscience tote bags and sassy mugs. Now available on my website.

Artwear designed by artists for artists.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

eBooks for every interest and skill level.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on December 8, 2020 by Lisa Vogt — 2 Comments

Creative Slumping – Drop Out Vase How-to

Excerpt from Creative Slumping Webinar

My favorite thing about glass fusing is its limitless possibilities. Beyond the basics, there are countless ways to work with this medium and get surprisingly unique results every time. There’s always something new to try and learn.

Another thing I love about glass is the three-dimensional aspect. We have the power to change the shape of our art and take it from flat to fabulous. Drop out molds are great props you can use to express your artistic flare in exciting, new creative ways.

What makes drop molds different?

When fused glass is slumped into a typical mold, we retain the original design unchanged but now with a gentle three-dimensional shape. Whereas the process of reshaping glass by allowing it to fall through the hole in a drop out ring changes and adds to the visual features of the design. As the glass drops through the ring the design elements blend and stretch which gives the illusion of movement in the finished project.

Drop Out Vase How-to

Drop-out-mold vases are tricky. Every kiln fires differently. The type of glass used and the way the project is assembled both affect the way the glass falls through the hole. Taking detailed notes is especially important if you want consistent results time-after-time.

Design Tip: As the glass falls through the mold it stretches. Because dropping glass adds detail to the pattern, I’ve found that when it comes to the vase design less is more. Keep the design simple. An overcomplicated pattern makes the vase look clumsy and heavy instead of graceful and light.

To make the glass.

Cut five (5) 7-inch glass circles. Vary the design on the layers. Stack the 5 layers in the kiln on a primed or fiber covered shelf. Wrap the stacked glass with Thin Fire fiber paper and 1/8” thick fiber paper to maintain the desired thickness and shape during the fusing process. Hold the fiber paper ring in place with kiln posts.

Fire to a full fuse temperature using the guide below.

To Make the glass base and riser.
Base: Cut two 4-inch circles, one black glass, one clear dichroic glass. Stack and full fuse.
Riser: Cut two 1 ½ inch circles out of clear glass. Stack and full fuse.

Drop out mold set up.
The round, ceramic drop out mold is 9-inch-wide with a 5-inch-wide hole. Cover the mold top with 1/8-inch thick fiber paper. This keeps the glass from slipping off the mold as it drops. If handled carefully, the fiber paper can be reused over and over.

Support the mold with four, 5-inch-tall kiln posts. Cover the kiln bottom, below the glass with fiber paper.
Heat the glass to drop it through the mold using the drop ring firing guide below.
Kilns fire differently. Test fire these guides. Take notes and make adjustments as needed.

Firing Guide – Full Fuse
Segment     Rate                Temp/Degrees            Hold/ Minutes
1                300                             1300                         60*
2                300                             1465                         10
3                9999**                        960                          40
4                500                              800                           10
5 Let cool to room temperature
*This hold prevents bubbles from forming between the glass and kiln shelf.
**As fast as possible.

Drop Ring
Segment      Rate                Temp/Degrees          Hold/Minutes
1                500                             1200                        30
2                200                             1300                        60***
***Peek at 30 minutes and again at 45 minutes to monitor the drop.
When the glass touches the fiber paper lined kiln bottom go to the next segment.
3                Flash Vent                 1000                      0
4                9999*                          960                          40
5                 500                            800                     10
6 Let cool to room temperature.
*9999, As fast as possible.

**These firing guides are for System 96. They work equally as well with other COEs

Cutting the rim.
Cut the rim off with the 2-inch EverRun Sintered Diamond Slitter and Dremel. Grind and polish the rim. Glue the vase on the riser and base with E6000 adhesive.

Supplies & Materials
5 glass circles cut to 7-inch across
9-inch round ceramic drop out ring with a 5 inch hole
5-inch kiln posts
1/8-inch thick fiber paper
Thin Fire fiber paper

Tools & Materials
2-inch EverRun Sintered Diamond Slitter
Available at: His Glassworks www.hisglassworks.com
Variable speed Dremel with flexible shaft
Water source
Holding Tray
Grinder

Excerpt from Creative Slumping Webinar, December 10, 2020
Webinars are a wonderful way to stay connected to other fusers and keep the creative flow strong between hands-on workshops. In this webinar, I show you how to use materials you likely already have in innovative ways to make new and unique shapes. You’ll be amazed at how simple combinations can transform ordinary shapes into sculptural works of art. I hope you’ll join me for this fun and informative live event.

Wherever you are in your artistic journey, you’re doing a great job!

Celebrate you!

Lisa

Upcoming Webinars

Creative Slumping December 10, 2020
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/category/208-live-webinar-events.html

I’m back with my popular Webinar, Creative Slumping. In this detailed Webinar, I’ll reshape the way you slump and drape glass. See how thinking outside the box and using readymade molds in new ways offers numerous and exciting opportunities to produce unique forms. You’ll also learn how to make your own graceful, free-form shaped molds from readily available materials with no laborious measuring or messy mixes needed.

But I’m not finished there…

Taking you one step further, I’ll show you how to use these different approaches, in combination, to transform ordinary projects into inspiring, sculptural pieces of art!

Join me December 10, 2020 for fusing, fun and a welcome opportunity to fuse glass with other enthusiastic glass artists around the world.

Fused Glass Sculptures January 14, 2021

Creating striking sculptural fused glass forms is easy when you know the professional tips and tricks!

Join me in this comprehensive webinar and learn how easily you can put tried and true methods to use in unlikely ways, to create extraordinary sculptural art.

Enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities.

In this in-depth webinar, you’ll learn pro tips and tricks for better glass cutting. See how to mix different fusible materials to make more elaborate designs.

You’ll be amazed how using standard slumping molds in unique ways can drastically improve the shape of your art.

You’ll be inspired by the innovative combination of ordinary techniques I share.

You’ll be confident to fuse glass after seeing how easy it is to load, program and fire a kiln.

Beginner and advanced students alike will find inspiration, motivation and renewed artistic freedom from seeing the step-by-step construction of more than 5 sculptural projects in this webinar.

After this exciting webinar you’ll have the professional knowledge and increased confidence to incorporate these innovative methods in your new work.

In addition, you’ll have a working knowledge of kiln operation, custom firing guides, and a deeper understanding of sculptural glass fusing fabrication.

You’ll have the burning desire, and the cool self-confidence, to take your passion to greater heights.

Join me January 14, 2021 for fusing, fun and a welcome opportunity to fuse glass with other enthusiastic glass artists around the world.

Are you a lifelong learner?

As a life-long learner myself, I know it sometimes takes a change of scenery, a challenging new educational experience and the encouragement of an experienced instructor to advance my skills and help me grow.

Are you ready to grow?

NEW DATE!

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop April 27-30, 2021

Register today! 4 seat available. Register here!

Wesley Chapel, Florida, 4-Day, Hands-on, Class size is limited.

This is the turning-point workshop you’ve been waiting for.

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.

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.

Materials are included, that’s a $150.00 value!

Here’s what the students from my recent November 2020 class are saying about the workshop.

“There is a wealth of material, tools and possible projects. Lisa is very motivating, informative, and supportive. The variety of materials is amazing. The number of projects we made in 4 days is beyond what I expected. The classroom set up was very well organized. I felt completely comfortable and safe with plenty of space and sanitizer. This class was beyond my expectations.” -Jane

Student comments from previous classes.

“My favorite part about the class was the non-stop building and the generous amount of materials available. What surprised me about the class was how full the schedule was. Usually, you do 1 project. We did 5 in 4 days. Thank you so much for your generosity.” -Christine

“My favorite part about the class was the variety of projects we made. What surprised me was the number of projects we completed. Awesome experience – will come again in the future.” -Monica

“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

Introducing Artwear

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Video covers. — Glass Fusing Video Downloads

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions.

Posted on December 1, 2020 by Lisa Vogt — Leave a comment

5 Quick Holiday Favorites to Brighten Your Home

Grinch

These darling plates are great for table decorations or for serving sweet treats. The dishes photographed here measure 10-inch by 10-inch. But these smart designs also look terrific in 12-inch or 8-inch sizes. Feel free to adjust the size to fit any slumping mold you may have.

Cookies for Santa

At this over scheduled time of year, we’re all longing for the peace and tranquility we associate with more studio time. Well here’s your excuse to log in more hours with your glass cutter and kiln. Don’t let these charming projects fool you; these flashy little beauties are fun, fast and easy to make. Plus, they make great gifts for family and friends.

Star of David

To make these seasonal plates, cut a 10-inch by 10-inch piece of clear fusible glass for the base layer. Select your design and glass colors. Cut the design layer using the specific pattern you selected as a guide. Glue the design layer on top of the base layer with a small amount of fusers glue, or another appropriate adhesive. Set the project aside to let the glue dry. (I like to use a tiny amount of white Elmer’s school glue and apply it with a tooth pick. This glue dries fast and when used in tiny amounts burns off without a trace.) Using the pattern as a guide, cut the accent pieces that make up the design you selected. Grind the cut accent pieces for a nice, clean fit. Clean the glass with water and then dry it with a towel. (I prefer to use water over detergents or other solvents that could leave reside that might burn onto the glass surface during fusing.) Glue the accent pieces to the design layer with fusers glue. Let the glue dry before moving to the next step.

Christmas Tree

For Cookies for Santa, Star of David and You’re a Mean One, select the appropriate power frit colors. Wearing a dust mask, sift your chosen powder evenly over the glass. Using a small dry paint brush or the tip of a pencil draw your message in the frit like you would draw in the sand. Remove any frit that might have fallen on the surrounding glass pieces with the dry paint brush.

Snowman

Chill out with this friendly winter visitor. This plate is fast and easy to make, no frit needed.

Full fuse and then slump your plates using the guides below.

Fusing Guide

Segment 1: Ramp 300 F/hr to 1300 and hold 30 min.
Segment 2: Ramp 500F/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 adjust as needed.

Serve. Celebrate!

Cheers!

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

Upcoming Webinars

Creative Slumping Webinar December 10, 2020

But I’m not finished there…

Taking you one step further, I’ll show you how to use these different approaches, in combination, to transform ordinary projects into inspiring, sculptural pieces of art!

Join me December 10, 2020 for fusing, fun and a welcome opportunity to fuse glass with other enthusiastic glass artists around the world.

Fused Glass Sculptures Webinar January 14, 2021