Fused Glass
One of the glass forming methods that has withstood the test of time is glass fusing. It is believed to have existed since the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans.
The technique was the favored method of the artisans of the time and was used to create small glass objects. But with the invention of the glass blowpipe, glass fusing was slowly succeeded by the more efficient and versatile technique of glassblowing.
Still, the art of creating fused glass was never forgotten. Fast forward to more recent times, it now thrives as a way to create elegant works that everyone can appreciate.
Our collection of fused glass pieces can make the perfect gift, a decorative piece or even glassware that you can use every day.
More than the Sum of Its Parts
As the name implies, glass fusing involves joining together multiple layers of glass. Depending on the project, different shapes, colors, and sizes of glass can be used.
First, the artist selects the appropriate glass pieces for the desired design. A simple design may only need two or three layers using pieces of glass cut into simple shapes. For more intricate designs, many different colors and layers of glass will be necessary.
It’s not easy to imagine how the finished product will turn out when you’re just putting together the individual parts. The more sophisticated the design, the more the artist’s skill comes into play.
Once the pieces are assembled and prepared, it gets heated in a kiln at temperatures over 1000 degrees. This is where the actual fusing of the glass will take place. When the heating process is finished, the piece is cooled slowly at specific temperatures to make sure it won’t shatter or crack.
Whether it’s a one of a kind piece of glass jewelry, artistic plates, or a sparkling glass sculpture, each piece of fused glass in our collection is a handmade work of art.
We offer these popular fused glass styles:
- art
- plates
- wall art
- bowls
- ornaments
- coasters
- pendants
- earrings
- sculptures
About Vandalia Glassworks
Vandalia Glassworks is home to a state of the art hot glass shop and cold working facility. Our goal is to provide local artists the facilities they need to hone their skills and master the art of glassblowing.
We also want to provide a place for them to sell their creations or just share it with others. Our 1200 square foot gallery hosts exquisite pieces from both local and international glassblowers.
Even if you’re just curious about how art glass is made, our studio is a welcoming place to watch artists in action. If you’re in the area, drop by the shop in St Paul just North of 94 on Vandalia St. or shop our collection of blown glass art online.
History of Glassblowing
Glass has been used by cultures as far back as the ancient Egyptians. What we take for granted today was regarded as one of the most luxurious forms of craftsmanship in the past. From small bits of jewelry to beautifully designed vessels, it’s amazing to think that even back then, artisans were capable of making such intricate works.
As time went on, the techniques they used continued to be refined and perfected into what artists use today. This evolution leads us to the modern art of glassblowing – a craft that we are proud to be able to share with you.