What is FRIT?
Frit is the same as fused glass except it has been crushed. It also has different COE's. It comes in four different sizes.
They are:
Powder
Fine
Medium
Coarse
COE90 Glass Frit
COE96 Glass Frit
Frit is used for many different techniques. I will explain some of them below.
Frit Painting
Frit painting is when you start with a sheet of fused glass (usually clear). It must be the same
COE as the frit you will be using.
If you plan to use a mold, you should make sure the clear glass you are using is cut to the proper size to fit the mold.
Print out a design you like (not too detailed). Put the paper
with the design under the clear glass.
Add frit on top of the clear glass layer, following the lines of the design. You should
put enough frit that the clear glass layer will not be showing. When you have filled in the design,
you can fire it to a full fuse.
When fired, if the colors seem too light, you can add more frit and re-fire.
After firing, the piece can be used as a sun-catcher panel or be
slumped into a "prepared" mold to create a plate, bowl, platter etc.
Molds will be discussed separately.
Why do I need molds?
You don't actually need molds, but they can help you make many different
items. There are slump molds and drape molds. Before using a mold it is necessary to coat it with kiln wash or Zyp spray on Boron Nitride.
Glass Molds
Slump Molds are used to allow the heated glass to fall into and take
on the shape of the inside of the mold.
Drape molds are used to allow heated glass to fall over and take on
the shape of the outside of the mold.
When you plan to use a mold, you should make sure the glass you are using is cut to the proper size to fit the mold, BEFORE doing any decorating or making designs.
What about a kiln?
There are several different brands of kilns and each brand makes several sizes and
type of kilns. Paragon Kilns
Jen-Ken Kilns
Initially, I would suggest buying a glass fusing kit that includes a microwave kiln and
pick up a used microwave to fire in. Once you have done some small pieces with the
microwave kiln, you will know whether or not you enjoy glass fusing.
At this point, the
next step would be to sign up for a fusing class at a local glass studio. I recommend
taking the class so that you can see what tools are needed and decide if you want to
proceed with the hobby. It becomes a lot more expensive.
If you are considering buying a kiln, I would suggest that you visit your local glass studio and discuss it with the owners or teachers. You might want to read up on some of the types of kilns and their features before you visit the studio.
Re-Cycled Glass Only
Glass With A Past (Jodi McRaney Rusho)
Glass With A Past Recycled Glass Fusing Schedules
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