Ocean Beaches Glassblowing & Gallery

Fused glass is a term used to describe glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of temperatures from 1100ºF to 1500ºF.

There are 3 main distinctions for temperature application and the resulting effect on the glass. Firing in the lower ranges of these temperatures (1100-1250 °F) is called slumping. Firing in the middle ranges of these temperatures (1250-1350 °F) is considered "tack fusing". Firing the glass at the higher spectrum of this range (1350-1500 °F) is a "full fuse".

All of these techniques can be applied to one glass work in separate firings to add depth, relief and shape.

While fused glass techniques are generally used to create glass art, glass tiles and jewelry, the slumping process allows the creation of larger, functional pieces like dishes, bowls, plates and ashtrays. Producing functional pieces generally requires 2 or more separate firings; one to fuse the glass and a second to shape it.

Since the 1970s, more hobbyists have focused on using kiln-fused glass to make beads and components for jewelry. This has become especially popular since the introduction of glass manufactured for the specific purpose of fusing in a kiln.