AMACO – Tech Sheet #25 – AMACO® Fused Glass Jewelry
To get started with a fused glass jewelry project, read the list of materials found in AMACO® Jewelry Kit 40079A found below:
Materials included in AMACO® Glass Fusing Jewelry Kit:
6″ x 6″ C.O.E. 90 Glass Sheet Clear
6″ x 6″ C.O.E. 90 Glass Sheet White
3” x 3” C.O.E. Glass Sheet in each of the following 7 colors (cobalt, tangerine, Kelly green, grenadine, black granite, lime, aqua)
5 oz. Tube containing glass stringers/noodles in assorted colors
2 oz. jar of glass chunks in assorted colors
Glass cutter
4 oz. jar of cutting fluid
Running glass pliers
1-pound jar of AMACO® kiln wash
Remember: Safety Goggles should always be worn when cutting and breaking glass.
Step 1. Cut Glass
Cut glass at a cutting station that has a fiberboard mat or felted surface, such as a blanket. First, dip Metal Glass Cutter in Cutting Oil; then score by pressing firmly (on the smooth side of the glass) along a predetermined line with the Glass Cutter.
Step 2. Break Glass
Use the Glass Pliers to break the glass apart by lining the arrow on the pliers with the score, then applying pressure to the grip.
Step 3. Create a Design
Create a design by choosing a base piece of glass and arranging glass shapes, stringers, noodles and chunks. Stack glass no higher then 4 layers for uniform results. Stabilize the glass by using school glue between layers. Glue will burn off in the kiln.
For additional effects, layer AMACO® WireMesh®, WireForm® or ArtEmboss® in Copper color only between glass sheets. (Sold separately).
Step 4. Make a Jewelry Finding
With the wire provided, create a loop. Cut the wire using wire snips. Make sure the finding is a full circle shape and not a “U” shape; so that the wire will not slip out once glass is fired. Sandwich the wire loop between two pieces of glass. Leave a small area exposed; so that attachments can be made after firing.
Step 5. Prepare Kiln Shelf
Carefully mix AMACO® Kiln Shelf Wash in a container. Do not create dust. Add water gradually, stirring slowly until a light creamy consistency is achieved. Apply three even coats of wash to kiln shelf. Allow each coat to dry. Place glass pieces in a single layer (with at least 1/8” between). Program the kiln for glass fuse firing
Step 6. Finish the Piece
Once the kiln has cooled to room temperature, the glass is ready to be removed. In most cases, glass will be ready to use. However, finished pieces may have rough edges or kiln wash on back. Smooth rough edges with fine sandpaper and remove kiln wash with soapy water.
The Importance of C.O.E. Glass
Included in AMACO® Fused Glass Jewelry Kit Glass pieces used in same firings must have the same C.O.E. rating. C.O.E. stands for coefficient of thermal expansion and relates to how the glass expands and contracts due to temperature changes. Different glass has different C.O.E. numbers. If the glass used for fusing does not have the same C.O.E number, it will crack and break. To be guaranteed compatible C.O.E. glass, buy glass from the same source and check the label to be sure that the C.O.E. is the same.
All AMACO® glass has a C.O.E. of 90 and is guaranteed to be compatible.
Ceramic Kilns vs. Glass Kilns
Although not optimal, a ceramic kiln will fire glass adequately for most school projects. Glass requires a more precise firing process than ceramics; AMACO® recommends that only Select Fire™ or computerized kilns be used to fire glass. For easy to follow step-by-step computer programming, visit www.amaco.com and download the Glass Kiln Manual.
Shown with bead door open, main door closed.
AMACO® GSF-045 Warm Glass Kiln
For studio or school use for fusing, tacking, slumping or jewelry glass projects. UL Listed, with Glass Select Fire™ controller for accurate and stable firing temperatures for small projects. GSF-045, Item No.24142T, 115V Household Current.
Follow Safety Precautions
All AMACO® lesson plans state that adults and teachers supply adequate supervision for children and students, as many art curriculums are expanding to include glass. Always use safety goggles. Safe firing instructions can be found at amaco.com or by calling AMACO® Customer Service Monday through Friday, from 8 to 5 EST.
Child Size Safety Goggles, Item No. 40074T
Project ideas, lesson plans, products and glass information are all available at amaco.com. For technical and product information call 800-374-1600.
