I have graciously been given a free kiln! I answered an ad on Craigslist and it was made available to me from the Beverly Art Center. It is a Skutt model 181 dating from 1965 to 1979. It currently does not work- but I am hopeful. My goal would be to have my own kiln and wheel and be able to do more work at home. I am interested in slumping glass besides throwing pots.
Slumping glass involves heating Dichroic glass to a temperature of 1000 to 1400 degrees F , then you must follow four steps: heating the glass, soaking the glass, cooling the glass and annealing the glass. All of these steps can be accomplished in the same kiln that heats ceramics. These steps are followed to allow the glass to become smooth and melt and finally cool to room temperature to avoid cracking. The "slump" comes when the heated glass slumps into a smooth ceramic bisque mold.
I personally have never tried to work with glass but I look forward to trying it. Our lead potter and president, Joyce Riley, has fused glass to the bottom surfaces of her pottery bowls. The look achieved was one of water and reflection, a beautiful effect and she told me that all these pieces sold!! Great job Joyce.
Here is an example of fused glass featured project by Delphi Artist Karina Foster in the Binet Catalog. Lovely example of a slump mold bowl!
