Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to hang my glass?
Hang large, heavy outdoor pieces on a secure hook, such as a plant hanger or shepherd's crook, or hang from a tree. Lighter weight items can be hung outdoors on a plant support stake or from a secure hook under an eave or in a tree.
For indoor suncatchers or wall items, we recommend a secure cup hook, nail, ornament hanger, or a picture hanger appropriately sized for the weight of the item. We do NOT recommend suction cups - they will eventually let go! Instead, use an adhesive "Command hook" appropriately sized for the weight of the item. Follow directions and clean the surface very well before installing.
How do I care for my glass?
All of our serving pieces are food safe, and some are dishwasher safe, but HAND WASHING IS RECOMMENDED to avoid breakage from thermal shock. (This is art glass, not Pyrex.) Treat serving dishes as you would china or crystal. Never use on the stovetop or in the oven. Some pieces can be used in the microwave if the glass does not have a metallic (iridized) surface.
Clean other pieces as you would any glass or crystal collectible, using glass cleaner or mild soap and water, and wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive pads or cleansers, which may scratch the surface of the glass.
Is this the same as stained glass?
No, this is kiln-formed glass.
What's the difference between kiln-formed glass and glassblowing?
Although we do manipulate small amounts of molten glass (using a torch or small melting kiln), we mostly work with glass while it is solid, then fire it in a kiln at temperatures up to 1700°F. This process is called glass fusing, where the transformation takes place inside the kiln. Firing a piece can take from 8 to 24 hours, not counting several hours required for natural cooling once the firing is complete. Many of our pieces require two, three, or more firings.
Glass blowing, on the other hand, generally means working with glass while it is hot and molten.
Do you make custom pieces or special orders?
Yes! Please contact us to discuss your custom project.
How can I learn to do this? Do you teach classes?
Sorry, we do not teach classes. However, some local art studios are now offering glass fusing workshops. An internet search on "fused glass classes [your city]' is a good place to start.