How to Slump Glass

Place fused glass on top of a mold that has received a coat of kiln-wash, and place it in the kiln., Fire the kiln to a temperature between 1200 to 1300°F (648.9 to 704.4°C), keeping an eye on the glass through the peephole., Make notes of...

12 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Place fused glass on top of a mold that has received a coat of kiln-wash

    Make sure the glass piece you choose is not so big that it will flow out of the mold and pour over the sides, making it almost impossible to remove the glass from the mold.
  2. Step 2: and place it in the kiln.

    The glass will begin softening and turn glossy when the temperature nears 1000°F (537.7°C) and start slumping as it nears 1200°F (648.9°C). ,,, Opening the lid allows faster cooling as the heat can escape from the kiln. , After 20 minutes, continue lowering the temperature to 600°F (315.6°C.) This will anneal the glass which helps relieve any built-up stress. , This can take 24 hours or more, but it is important that the glass be cooled to room temperature before you begin the final polishing to obtain your finished piece.
  3. Step 3: Fire the kiln to a temperature between 1200 to 1300°F (648.9 to 704.4°C)

  4. Step 4: keeping an eye on the glass through the peephole.

  5. Step 5: Make notes of temperature and slumping time.

  6. Step 6: Allow the glass to soak

  7. Step 7: which means rest

  8. Step 8: until it begins to flatten and shape itself to the mold.

  9. Step 9: Cool down the kiln to 1100°F (593.3°C) by either opening the lid or turning it off.

  10. Step 10: Cool down the kiln to 1000°F (537.8°C) and maintain that temperature for 20 minutes.

  11. Step 11: Turn the kiln off completely

  12. Step 12: and allow the piece to cool naturally.

Detailed Guide

Make sure the glass piece you choose is not so big that it will flow out of the mold and pour over the sides, making it almost impossible to remove the glass from the mold.

The glass will begin softening and turn glossy when the temperature nears 1000°F (537.7°C) and start slumping as it nears 1200°F (648.9°C). ,,, Opening the lid allows faster cooling as the heat can escape from the kiln. , After 20 minutes, continue lowering the temperature to 600°F (315.6°C.) This will anneal the glass which helps relieve any built-up stress. , This can take 24 hours or more, but it is important that the glass be cooled to room temperature before you begin the final polishing to obtain your finished piece.

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Nicholas Sullivan

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