Glass Fusing Fundamentals: What You Need to Know to Get Started

🔥 What Is Glass Fusing?

Glass fusing is the process of joining pieces of glass by heating them in a kiln to temperatures high enough to melt and bond the surfaces. Depending on your temperature and technique, you can create everything from smooth, fully fused tiles to textured, tack-fused designs with raised edges and contours.

There are three primary fusing techniques:

  • Full Fuse (1450°F–1500°F): Glass melts entirely into a smooth, single layer. It is great for jewelry, plates, and wall art.
  • Tack Fuse (1350°F–1400°F): Glass partially melts and fuses while retaining some texture. It is ideal for multi-layered pieces.
  • Slumping (1200°F–1300°F): Warm glass is softened and bent over a mold to create bowls, plates, and other forms.

🧪 Understanding Glass Compatibility

Not all glasses play nicely with each other. Different glasses expand and contract at different rates when heated — the Coefficient of Expansion (COE). Mixing incompatible glass can lead to cracks or structural failure after fusing.

Always ensure all the pieces in your project are compatible. The best way to do this is to source your glass from a reputable vendor like Bullseye Glass in Santa Fe.

🧰 Tools & Materials to Get Started

You don’t need a ton of specialized gear to begin, especially if you’re working in a shared space like ours. Here’s a quick list of the basics:

  • Glass Sheets & Frits: The raw material. Sheets can be cut into shapes, and frit (crushed glass) adds texture and color.
  • Glass Cutter & Running Pliers (we have these at Make): For cutting shapes and scoring sheets.
  • Kiln Wash or Shelf Paper (we stock this at Make): Prevents your piece from sticking to the kiln shelf during firing.
  • Safety Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask (when handling frit or powders).
  • Kiln Access (take our Kiln badge to use our kilns): You’ll need a programmable kiln with proper ventilation, like the ones in our fused glass studio.

📈 Firing Basics: What’s Happening in the Kiln?

A fusing schedule is more than just cranking the heat and walking away. Firing happens in stages:

  1. Ramp Up: The kiln heats gradually to avoid thermal shock.
  2. Soak/Hold: The kiln holds at peak temp to allow the glass to fuse.
  3. Anneal: Controlled cooling phase to relieve stress in the glass.
  4. Cool Down: Returns safely to room temperature.

Firing schedules vary depending on thickness and technique, and we’ll help you dial in the right one for your project.

🧼 Safety First!

Working with glass is rewarding — but also sharp, hot, and sometimes dusty. Here are a few safety musts:

  • Always wear safety glasses when cutting or grinding glass.
  • Use a dust mask when working with powdered frit.
  • Wear heat-resistant gloves when near the kiln.
  • Never open a kiln above 500°F — serious heat hazards.

At Make Santa Fe, we provide safety briefings and require a Glass Kiln Badge for independent kiln use. (Take the class, get the badge, start making!)

🧠 Want to Learn More?

We regularly offer workshops on Glass Fusing & Slumping, so whether you’re brand new or looking to level up, there’s a seat for you at the kiln. You can also explore our Track Courses for a deeper dive into the world of fabrication and design.

✨ Final Thoughts

Glass fusing is a hands-on creativity that’s both mesmerizing and accessible. Whether you’re making jewelry, dishes, or experimental art, it all starts with a simple spark of curiosity.

Join us — and fuse something unforgettable.

#LearnBuildThrive #MakeSantaFe