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Relax! It’s Five O’clock Somewhere!

Raise a glass! Let’s celebrate all that we have to be thankful for. I enjoy drinking wine and the warm, relaxed atmosphere it creates. Therefore, it was natural to include a wine glass in my collection of designs in my video, Simple Pleasures.

My design process.

Once I decide on the subject matter for a specific project, in this case a simple wine glass, I then consider the background space. I say to myself, “What can I do in the background to enhance my focal point?” Then  I take it step farther and ask. “How can I create a setting that reflects the mood I want to portray?” Wine makes me think of rolling green hills and booming vineyards. I’ve only been to a vineyard once. So, I researched winery images online where I found a lot of inspiration. I wanted the background to add to, but not overpower the wine glass. I decided to create a sense of place with a rural landscape complete with distant hills and the illusion of rows of grape vines.

I then decided that frit would give me the stylized feel I wanted for the background. With frit I had control and the flexibility to create a setting that’s both easily recognizable and impressionistic at the same time. I selected high contrast frit colors. I used fine size frit to give me soft lines that would be consistent with a distant view.

As you can see, a lot of planning and forethought goes into my designs. All of my decisions are intentional. Working this way takes time, but the increase in visual potency is always worth the effort. When you start a project, give it your full attention. Think beyond cutting the glass and stacking it in the kiln. Consider ways you can create a greater visual impact by adding detail.

How to make the Wine Glass.

This 8 inch x 8 inch project is made with 2 layers of glass. The base layer is white glass. The design layer is made up of cut glass and frit.

Cut a ½ inch wide border out of purple glass. Cut the wine glass out of dichroic or iridized glass. Glue the border and wine glass pieces to the base layer. Let the glue dry so the pieces don’t move  when you apply the frit.

Apply a thick layer of medium green, fine size frit to the bottom of the space. Use a small paint brush to shape the green into a nice, graceful curve. Use a spoon to apply dark green, fine size frit on top of the medium frit to represent the grape vine rows.

Tip: Pile the frit up to the thickness of the cut glass around it for strong color saturation and even coverage.

Moving up apply light green, fine size frit to create a distant hill. Detail the hill with medium green, fine size frit for the distant grape vine rows. Continue building the landscape with a brown hill followed by a tan hill.

I used fine size, sky blue frit for the upper portion of the background. I then blended fine size, medium blue into the sky blue to create movement in the sky.

Tip: Be meticulous about your clean up. Carefully brush any excess frit off the wine glass and border. The more time and effort you put into every step, the higher the quality of your finished artwork. Always do your best work.

Fire the assembled project to a full fuse temperature using the firing guide below.

My wine glass panel measures 8 inch x 8 inch. You can make it in a different size and get the same beautiful results.

Wine Glass as seen in my Simple Pleasures video. This is only one of 12 fun projects in my full length video. Download it now at  www.LisaJVogt.com

Simple Pleasures with Lisa Vogt Video

Watch the, Wine Glass, YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/VqOUndwKGm8

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

NOTE: Kilns fire differently. Test fire these guides in your kiln and then make adjustments as needed.
 Raise a glass. Let’s 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
Instagram through_the_artists_lens

Radiant Ribbons by Lisa Vogt

Fusing for the Adventurous Webinar with Lisa Vogt June 29, 2021
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1551-fusing-for-the-adventurous-with-lisa-vogt-june-29-2021.html 

Get ready to push boundaries, challenge old ideas and enjoy the thrill of limitless possibilities. Join glass artist Lisa Vogt in this comprehensive hands-on webinar, and learn how easy it is to use tried and true methods in unlikely, innovative ways!

With 4 major projects and a few bonus pieces, you’ll get more than you bargained for!

Radiant Ribbons combines dichroic glass and patterned rods into three wavy sections that create beautiful wall art, a dazzling focal point for any living space.

Leaves involves cutting and layering glass surrounded by bits of dichro. Depth is produced by having all of the component parts “floating” in frit and edged in solid color to construct a scene reminiscent of a shadow box.

Fun with Rods gives you the opportunity to fabricate a light and airy project with curvy slumped colored rods.

Plus, you’ll have the fun of kiln casting with murrini creating Hearts on Fire.

All of these techniques will produce dramatic results in your art, and take your work to an exciting new level of sophistication. Beginning and advanced fusers alike will find inspiration, motivation, and a renewed sense of artistic freedom by combining the ideas presented in this webinar.

And of course you’ll receive my custom firing guides.

Armed with your newfound skills, you’ll be incorporating these techniques into your work in no time, while expanding your creative visions. You’ll gain the cool confidence to turn your glass visions into reality. Don’t miss this great opportunity to take your work and inspiration to greater heights!

Currents as seen In Sculptural Fused Glass with Lisa Vogt

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop
October 19-22, 2021
Register today! 3 seats available. Register here: https://lisajvogt.com/product/sculptural-fused-glass-4-day-hands-on-workshop-1500-00/
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!

May 2021 Student Testimonials  

“My favorite thing about the class was the creative freedom – we were not required to make the same thing the same way. I was surprised by the variety and number items we made and the flexibility we had to go our own way with our projects. The glass studio was very comfortable and very clean with plenty of room.” -Ron

 “My favorite thing about the class was the projects were tailored to our interests with user specific glass choices and design options. This makes the best type of learning environment. I loved the continued technical information that was used in daily discussions. Loved the amount of space we had for working and the use of top-quality tools and the hands-on assistance Lisa gave each one of us. You will hear and see me again. Thank you for your time and talent.” – Donna 

 “My favorite thing about the class was the creativity – putting things together in new ways – using different materials – and how welcome I felt. I was surprised how much we were able to get done and by Lisa’s ability to coach those of us on different levels. My least favorite part was that the class ended. The classroom setup was excellent – well organized. I really feel like Lisa gave me the tools to advance to a new level. It was worth the cost of the workshop, airfare, B&B, animal care and house sitting! Can’t wait to put what I leaned into practice and return for another workshop.” -Sue

Read more student testimonials on my website.

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

Artwear

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Videos for every skill level and interest.

  Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

 

Inspiration is here. eBooks for all skill levels.Check out my eBooks for elegant patterns and detailed fusing instructions. 

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Drilling, Grinding & Polishing a Fused Glass Sink

It’s amazing how much art and engineering have in common. Art concepts are born from a small spark. But it takes hot, burning desire, coupled with ingenuity, to actually transform such obscure ideas into physical reality.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

I’ve been making fused glass sinks for years. In the beginning, I constructed them using the layered method. This type of construction has a beautiful, round finished edge when the fused glass comes out of the slumping mold.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

It wasn’t long before I expanded my techniques and started building sinks using the cast method. This sink style is much thicker. The glass comes out of the mold with a slightly textured edge. This type of sink construction requires grinding and polishing to make the thick sink edge smooth and shiny.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

I recently shared how to construct a sink with a Sailboat design. Here, I’m going to focus on drilling a drain hole and finishing a thick sink edge. This Poppy sink is made with the cast method, which simply means the glass has a thick profile. I create the thickness by containing mosaic size glass pieces with a 1 inch wide strip of 1/8 inch thick fiber paper. I built this sink on a primed fiber board kiln shelf. The fiber paper is held in place with U shaped copper wire pins pressed into the fiber board kiln shelf. After fusing, the fiber paper leaves a slight texture in the edge of the fused glass disc. My conservative sink slumping temperature isn’t hot enough to polish the edge. Therefore, the edge has to be cold-worked to achieve the professional quality shine that makes this sculptural sink style so appealing.

Drill bit and hone.

But first let’s drill the drain hole.

Sink with drain hole.
Sink with drain hole.

You can drill first or grind and polish first. It doesn’t matter which step you do first, they both have to be done. We use a variable speed drill along with a core drill and hone to cut the drain hole in the glass sink. I line the inside of the sink with a piece of contact paper with a drain hole size circle cut out of the middle. The vinyl protects the glass from scratches if the drill bit accidentally slips. We start at a slight angle and then gradually bring the drill upright. It takes a few minutes to drill through the glass. We take our time. Patience is our friend here. After the hole is drilled the next step is to countersink the opening to accommodate a strainer drain. The drain should sit below the glass on the inside of the sink. This ensures the water drains properly. Again, we take our time and test the drain assembly often to ensure a good fit.

Grinding & Polishing a Fused Glass Sink with Lisa Vogt

Grinding and Polishing the Sink Edge     

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

In my studio we use a 12 inch machine with a variable speed motor and adjustable water feed. We use five different discs. We start by adjusting the water feed so the glass and grinding wheel are constantly wet. The first disc is a 100-diamond disc. We use this course disc to quickly remove material and level the sink edge. Once the edge is level, we switch to a 260-dianmond disc. This lighter disc removes the scratches left behind by the 100 grit disc. When the edge is uniform, we switch to the blue-mesh disc. This disc removes fine scratches in the sink edge. Once satisfied with the edge quality, we use the brown-mesh disc. This pre-polish disc further smooths the edge. Once the edge quality is uniform, we move on to the felt wheel. We us this disc along with a polishing compound to create a deep, lustrous professional quality shine.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

This is a simplified introduction to a process that requires practice and patience to master. That said, it’s also a process that I find very relaxing and therapeutic. A lot of my studio time is spent deep in thought designing new pieces of art. Whereas, grinding and polishing is a relaxing mechanical process that requires little brain power. I like to switch between the different types of tasks to really enjoy my time in my studio. Think of cold-working as another way to expand your creativity and advance your artistic style. Hopefully, I’ve given you enough information to tempt you to explore and take new directions with your art.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

Here’s how to make the glass sink polishing stand we used to support the sink while grinding and polishing.

Sinks are advanced projects that involve a considerable amount of time to construct, a sizable amount of material and a skilled craftsman to complete successfully. When it comes time to cold-work your masterpiece, you want to feel confident that the job will go smoothly. And so it was our intention, to build consistency into this otherwise unstable task. That’s why we modified a readily available carpenter’s roller stand, into a customized sink support/guide that would provide us with reliable results time after time.

Poppy sink by Lisa Vogt

If it worked for us, it’ll work for you.

This new, re-purposed tool significantly streamlined my workflow and improved my success rate. Here’s how you can make your own sink stand/guide.

Start with your standard, home improvement store variety roller stand. Remove the metal roller. It comes off easily by depressing two buttons, one on each end of the roller. The mechanism works similar to toilet paper roll holder. Cut a 2” x 2” block of wood to fit between the uprights. Secure the wood in place with wood screws, one on each end.

Cover the surface of the wood with a strip of nylon, like the white cutting board used in your kitchen. The nylon holds up longer than the bare wood and it won’t scratch your glass as the edge becomes polished. Hold the nylon strip in place with two wood crews.

Be sure to countersink the screws so they don’t come in contact with or damage your glass. Pre-drill two holes for the dowels behind the nylon strip. Press two hardwood dowels into the holes in the wooden base. These dowels serve as stops that help you maintain a consistent distance from the grinding wheel throughout the grinding and polishing process. Tip: Don’t glue the dowels in place. They wear out quickly, and therefore will need to be replaced every few sinks.

Once you have one of these stands, you’re certain to find multiple uses for it. So don’t hesitate to add this handy tool to the supply of tools in your studio.

Stages of polish

Watch the drilling, grinding and polishing process here: https://youtu.be/exI2Rr7g2Ss

Fused Vessel Sinks Video

For detailed instructions and firing guides to make sinks check out my video, Fused Vessel Sinks available here:  https://lisajvogt.com/product/fused-vessel-sinks-with-lisa-vogt-video-download/              

Supplies
Roller stand
Wood screws
2” x 2” strip of wood cut to size
1”- 1 ½” wide strip of nylon cut to size
3/8” thick hardwood dowel cut to size

You got this!

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

Watercolor Technique Webinar with Lisa Vogt

New Webinar Date
Watercolor Techniques & Advanced Fusing Design with Lisa Vogt June 1, 2021
Register here: https://www.glasspatterns.com/glass-patterns-quarterly-store/product/1536-watercolor-techniques-advanced-fusing-design-with-lisa-vogt-june-1-2021.html

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 to 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.

Plus, as a special bonus I include step-by-step instruction on how to use failed projects. I’ll explain in detail how to solve problems and how to ensure successful projects moving forward.

I also include my custom firing guides, project patterns and materials list in PDF form.

You will be fired up and eager to apply these new techniques to enhance the beauty and charm of your work.

Currents as seen In Sculptural Fused Glass with Lisa Vogt video

 Next Available Date!
Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop September 21 – 24, 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 students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

“I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

 Here’s what the students from my 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

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

Artwear

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!  

Videos for every skill level and interest.

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.  

Inspiration is here. eBooks for all skill levels.

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

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3 Advanced Glass Fusing Tips – Take Your Work to the Next Level

Advancing is moving beyond your current skill level. It’s challenging your abilities and developing your talent and learning how you can make exceptional artwork that exceeds everyone’s expectations.

If this sounds like a huge, insurmountable task or an unrealistic goal for you, you’re not alone. Compressed into one sentence, the enormity of advancing ones craft can be a daunting motivation crusher. But don’t worry. Once we break down the steps you’ll be primed, ready and truly excited about taking action.

Here are three top tips pros use to break through and make exhibition quality art.

Dancer from Sculptural Fused Glass with Lisa Vogt
  1. Be a Master of Color.

Color plays an important role in the effectiveness of your art. The colors you select convey your message. You, as the artist have the power to swing the viewers mood from tranquil, bright and cheery to thought-provoking, stirring and stormy. When planning a new project, I consider what type of impression I want to leave and then select colors that support that intention. Reds are active and emotional. Blues are soothing, they suggest tranquility. While yellows represent happiness and contentment. Choose your colors carefully and then use them with purpose to draw the viewer into your magical world.

Blue Beauty from Breaking Through
  1. Pick A Pattern.

Including patterns in your art is an essential way to increase the visual intricacy and attractiveness of your artwork. The whole idea is to capture interest and hold it as long as possible. Patterns add dimension which increases interest. This entices the viewer and engages them longer. Pattern also shows an increase in artistic exploration and creative skill on your part, and that always gets noticed.

Patterns can be simple and geometric or intricate and organic. I decide how to use pattern based on the artistic style I’m going for. For traditional designs, I like to use structured, linear patterns that illustrate organization and planning, while contemporary designs are great places to use free-flowing patterns. In effect they increase the visual movement throughout the artwork. Whatever style you chose, pattern adds drama that increases the visual quality of any piece.

Evergreen from Go with the Flow
  1. Go Sculptural.

Shape up. The fastest and simplest way to ramp up your artwork and advance to the next level, is to create a unique shape, and go sculptural. Sculptural pieces always have higher visual impact that translates into an increased perceived value. This is the key to taking your work from a craft or a hobby to the threshold of fine art. We are so fortunate to be working with a medium that we can manipulate and shape any way we want. Take advantage of that and you can transform ordinary into the extraordinary.

Try using slumping molds in different ways. I combine molds to build unique shapes no one else has seen. Or I fuse several small pieces and then glue them together to create a freestanding, three dimensional tower. You can do it too. Start small. Then as you gain confidence go bigger and more elaborate.

The big difference between making ordinary pieces and repeatedly producing one-of-a-kind original art is planning.

When it’s time to make something new and exciting I begin by asking myself, what style do I want to make? Then I consider what mood the art should provoke and select an appropriate color palate. Then I layout a pattern that will reinforce my selected style.  My next step is to plan what form the finished artwork will take. I ask myself, how can I manipulate the shape of the glass and display it in a unique and unexpected way that will be amazing? Then I begin the process of construction.

I don’t always have all the answers at the beginning. But I do follow my original plan to its natural end. Often, new directions present themselves during fabrication, but I stay true to my plan. I’ll take notes on the new possibilities and revisit them later with my next new undertaking. Sometimes deviations are inevitable, like when an idea or technique fails to produce the results I had hoped. Then I go back to the first three tips, regroup and forge ahead.

If improving your glass skills and growing your artistic style are on your 2021 list, I’m here to help you achieve success. I hope this insight helps you overcome obstacles so you can make the art of your dreams.

Wherever you are in your artistic journey, you’re doing a great job! Keep going. Never settle. You are an amazing talent. Shine on!

Except from my Sculptural Fused Glass Workshop

Happy fusing!
Lisa

Follow my blog for more tips and tricks!

Artist Website www.LisaVogt.net
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhOifd7wukk
Facebook www.Facebook.com/LisaJVogt
Author Website https://lisajvogtcom.wordpress.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/lisajvogt
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lvogt_originalsinglass/

Currents as seen in Sculptural Fused Glass Video

 Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 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 students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

 “I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

 Here’s what the students from my 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

 

Artwear

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

Videos for every skill level and interest.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

Inspiration is here. eBooks for all skill levels.

 

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

 

 

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Making a Sailboat Sink

Fused glass sinks are one of my favorite ways to incorporate functional art into homes. The custom feature is always a dramatic and artistic addition to any style decor. Most of the sinks I make are bold designs that feature a play on color, along with visual texture and striking form.

It’s a real treat to design and build a sink that also incorporates the mood and setting of the home’s unique location. This sailboat sink was designed for a lakeside home where picturesque mountain views and boating on the clear water make your stay special.

Lake

How it’s made.

This sink is made with three layers of glass. Using a circle cutter, I cut a large, 17 inch circle base layer out of clear glass. It’s placed on a primed, fiber board kiln shelf. I cut a second 17 inch clear glass circle for the second layer. This additional piece increases the thickness of the finished sink. The added layer makes the finished sink more attractive and more durable. The third layer is the design layer. It’s made up of cut pattern pieces. I cut this layer to a smaller 16 ½ inch size circle. The smaller diameter design layer leaves a decorative clear rim around the perimeter of the sink. This small detail produces a striking clear frame around the blue and green glass.

Cut the clear base layer.
Cut the design.
Add detail with frit.

I cut the design pieces to fit on top of a full size paper pattern. The cut glass was arranged on the second clear layer. I applied frit to add interest to the solid glass colors. The sailboat is positioned off to one side to create a pleasing composition. I then applied white frit below the sailboat and dark blue frit on the water to simulate movement. Wispy white clouds in the blue sky were the finishing touch.

The stacked glass was fired to a full fuse temperature. Due to the thickness and size of the project the firing time was slow and conservative. It took 3 days. The fused glass was then slumped in a custom ceramic mold. At this point the sink was almost done. There was no reason to rush the process. The slumping was also slow and conservative. It took 3 days as well.

When I’m anxious to see any finished project come out of the kiln, I stop to ask myself, “What’s more important to me in two weeks, that the project is successful, OR that I got to see it a little sooner?” Of course, we all know the answer. I wait, not always patiently, but I wait. Fortunately, there’s always more glass to cut and another kiln to fill.

Sink kit.

With the right tools and equipment, drilling the drain hole is fast and easy. We use a variable speed drill and special drill bit to grind a hole to accommodate the sink drainpipe. We then countersink the drain hole, so a strainer drain fits flush with the surface of the glass.

For more information watch the Sailboat video here:  https://youtu.be/yOW976lhaHk

Fused Vessel Sinks Video

 

Are you ready to make your own custom sink? Find step-by-step instructions along with project specific firing schedules and materials lists in my video, Fused Vessel Sinks available on my website at https://lisajvogt.com/product/fused-vessel-sinks-with-lisa-vogt-video-download/

Happy fusing!

Lisa

Special Thanks to: HIS Glass Works & Creator’s Cutter’s Mate Circle Pro

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Currents as seen in Sculptural Fused Glass Video

  

Sculptural Fused Glass, 4-Day, Hands-on Workshop May 25-28, 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 students from my February 2021 class are saying about the workshop.

 “I feel I got the movement toward developing my own creativity this week. I was surprised that the things I already knew fit into the new knowledge I was getting in this class. Lisa is an excellent teacher who is tuned into what is going on in the class. She puts no pressure on the students when I know she could when we were dragging our feet. I was absolutely comfortable with the classroom set up and cleanliness of the studio. Will see you again soon.” -Judy

 Here’s what the students from my 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

Artwear made by artists for artists.

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

Instructional videos for all skill levels and interests.

Watch it NOW! Start fusing today!

Downloadable instructional videos for every skill level.

eBooks full of inspiration.

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