Cat's Paw Studios
Fused Glass Art by Kathleen Porter

313.359.3460
kathleen@catspawstudios.com

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Medium and Methods:
Fused works are created by melting specialty glass in a kiln at temperatures of 1300 – 1600 deg F. In order to give the finished piece depth and character, as many as five layers of glass are used. The beautiful shifting colors seen in some pieces are achieved through the use of a metal oxide coated material known as “dichroic glass”.

Basic processes for all pieces include an initial fusing, a grinding to establish the rough shape, and a final fire polishing. Additionally, jewelry requires fine shaping, routing, and drilling to accommodate the attachment of findings. If other than a flat surface is desired, the glass is placed on a mold and fired in a process called “slumping”. This method is used to create bowls, plates, and certain kiln-formed jewelry pieces.

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Fully fused at 1500 deg F

 

 

 

Updated 08/20/06

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tack fused at 1300 deg F