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The
fusing technique requires compatible glasses. We use mostly window
glass, because it is fairly certain that a piece of window glass
will be compatible within itself. We are unique in that we blow
window glass, and can create elements using our furnace that can
be later fused together. This includes rods, stringers, roundels,
blobs, flowers or anything that the artist requires. Our new oven,
the MM Fusemaxx (designed and built by Mikko Merikallio) allows
us to slump and fuse pieces up to 150cm x 60cm.
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Using
a smaller gas powered furnace that holds three small ceramic pots,
the bead-maker gathers a small amount of glass onto her 'mandrel',
and shapes the bead by flattening, twisting rolling or pulling.
The bead is then knocked free of the mandrel and placed in the annealing
oven above the furnace for gradual cooling. Scrap pieces of stained
glass are used, as well as pieces of bottle and window glass. The
final product is sold as individual beads, in strands, as assembled
necklaces, or beaded curtains. We also make buttons, pebbles and
napkin rings. |
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