Fused Glass is a term used to describe glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures. I use the process of stacking, or layering thin sheets of glass, often using different colors to create patterns or simple images. The stack is then placed inside a kiln which slowly raises the temperature until the separate pieces begin to bond together. The longer the kiln is held at the maximum temperature the more thoroughly the stack will fuse, eventually softening and rounding the edges of the original shape. Once the desired effect has been achieved at the maximum desired temperature, the kiln temperature is brought down to avoid devitrification. It is then allowed to cool slowly over a specified time, soaking at specified temperature ranges which are essential to the annealing process. This prevents uneven cooling and breakage and produces a strong finished product.

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