Glass has emerged over the last few years as one of the hottest art forms. I took a glass class so I could give it a try and was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Fused glass, in particular, is now one of my favorite forms of jewelry making. Though I recommend anyone who is interested to give it a try, glass, unlike seed beading or macrame, isn't cheap. To get started, you need to either find a glass studio in your area or set up your own because there are a number special items you'll need. But, don't get discouraged.
First, I would recommend anyone that is interested in glass to find a class. If there aren't any in your area, there are a few alternatives. One is to find someone who will come to you. This could be accomplished by either finding other people who are interested in taking a class and splitting the cost with you or by contacting a local bead store and requesting a class. If they get enough requests, then they could sponsor the class. Glass artists, just as bead and metal artists, often travel in order to teach classes. Another alternative to having a class come to you is for you to travel to the class. Many studios and artists offer weekend workshops along with accommodations for food and lodging. Finally, a third possibility is to find a stained glass class. Though there are a lot of differences, there are also a lot of similarities between stained glass and fused glass. At least you can learn the basics of glass cutting in such a class, and one of the most important elements in fused glass is knowing your glass.
If you've already taken a class or just can't seem to go to one or get one to you, then consider teaching yourself. Though a class can give you the basics, this is an art form that you really learn by doing. So, don't be intimidated. First, take a look at the following articles I wrote which include what I learned in the first glass classes I took.
Day 1: Cutting Up in Class - Describes the basic tools you need, glass COE, and how to cut glass.
Day 2: Finger Painting - First project - making a color graph out of glass scraps.
Day 3: Cutting & Pasting - An experiment that helps you understand about volume control.
Day 4: Funky Frit - What is frit, how to make, what it's used for.
Day 5: Torch Work - The basics of torch work that can be used in fused glass designs.
Whether you decide to teach yourself or take a class, you'll need to invest in a few hand tools. These include a glass cutter. I prefer this kind that provides an area for you to grip the tool. You'll also need some oil to go into the handle of this cutter. This cutter retails for about $25.
Next, you'll need glass runners. To start out, you can get a plastic pair for less than $10. However, I eventually broke mine after a few months and had to get a more expensive metal pair. So, keep this in mind if you decide to get the plastic kind.
Finally, you'll need a pair of breakers. This pair cost me about $8 and have held up very well.
Besides an area to cut your glass, you'll need a kiln if you don't have access to a glass studio. Kilns can range anywhere from $100 and up. My kiln retails for about $500.
I love working in my glass studio. I find myself in there for hours when I thought I'd just spend 30 minutes. If you've thought about trying out fused glass, I hope you decide to give it a try.