You probably know Bullseye glass for its beautiful, vibrant sheets. But the true genius lies in the complete system—an entire creative ecosystem. It’s time to go beyond just cutting and assembling. You can paint with light using fine powders, draw intricate lines with stringers, or add delicate, watercolor-like effects with confetti. Because every product is COE90 compatible, you have the freedom to layer, combine, and experiment without limits. This guide will show you how to use these different forms to add incredible depth and detail to your work. We’ll show you what’s possible and where to find everything in a great bullseye glass online store.

Key Takeaways

• Build on a Reliable COE90 Foundation: All Bullseye glass is tested to be COE90 compatible, which means you can mix and match any of their products—from sheets to powders—in the kiln without fear of cracking. This system is designed to give you consistent results and creative confidence.
• Use the Full Range of Glass Forms: Don’t limit yourself to just sheet glass. Add intricate details with frit and powder, create linear designs with stringers, and introduce stunning effects with iridescent or dichroic glass to give your artwork incredible depth and character.
• Stock Your Studio Strategically: You can make your art budget go further by planning your purchases. Buy your essential colors in larger quantities for volume discounts, try out new palettes with cost-effective sampler packs, and keep an eye out for seasonal sales.

What is Bullseye Glass?

If you’ve spent any time in the world of warm glass, you’ve definitely heard the name Bullseye. Based in Portland, Oregon, Bullseye Glass Company has been handcrafting colored glass for artists since 1974. It was founded by artists who wanted to create a reliable, high-quality material for their own work, and that artist-centric focus is still at the core of everything they do.

What makes Bullseye so special? It starts with their process. Each sheet is made by hand, resulting in exceptional quality and a stunningly diverse color palette. They are known for their rigorous testing and innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with glass. Whether you’re working on a complex kiln-formed piece, a vibrant stained glass panel, or a delicate mosaic, Bullseye provides the consistency and beauty you need to bring your vision to life. Their commitment to the craft has made them a trusted name in studios and galleries around the world.

Is Bullseye Glass the Same as Historical “Bull’s Eye” Glass?

It’s a common point of confusion, but Bullseye Glass Company and historical “bull’s eye” glass are two very different things. The historical version comes from an old glassmaking technique called the “crown glass” method. Glassblowers would spin a globe of molten glass on a rod until it flattened into a large disk. The center of that disk, where the rod was attached, created a thicker, circular pattern—the “bull’s eye.” This piece was often considered a lower-quality byproduct and used for windows in more practical places like workshops or stables.

On the other hand, Bullseye Glass Company, founded in Portland in 1974, is a modern manufacturer dedicated to creating high-quality art glass. Their entire system is built to give artists consistent, vibrant, and reliable materials for kiln-forming and other glass art forms. So, while the name might sound similar, the modern COE90 compatible glass from Bullseye is a premium product designed for creativity, not a remnant from an old production process. It’s all about precision and artistic potential, ensuring your projects turn out exactly as you envision them.

Why Artists Trust Bullseye

Bullseye’s relationship with the art community goes far beyond just manufacturing. They actively collaborate with artists to develop new products and push the medium forward. This partnership is a two-way street: artists get access to cutting-edge materials and support, while Bullseye gains invaluable feedback that fuels their innovation. They also champion artists’ work through exhibitions and custom fabrication projects, fostering a vibrant community built on shared passion and creativity. This deep connection is why so many artists don’t just use Bullseye glass—they feel like part of the Bullseye family.

Decoding COE90: What It Means for Your Art

When you’re fusing glass in a kiln, compatibility is everything. The Coefficient of Expansion (COE) measures how much glass expands when heated and shrinks when cooled. If you try to fuse two pieces of glass with different COEs, they’ll cool at different rates, causing stress and cracking—the last thing you want for your project. Bullseye solved this problem by creating an entire system of glass that is “tested compatible.” All of their fusible glass has a COE of 90.

What this means for you is creative freedom. You can confidently mix and match any of their products—from sheet glass and frit to stringers and powders—knowing they will fuse together perfectly. This reliability is why so many artists depend on Bullseye’s extensive line of COE90 glass for their projects.

The History of Bullseye Glass

The story of Bullseye Glass is a perfect example of how a simple need can spark a revolution in an entire industry. It wasn’t born in a corporate boardroom but from the hands-on experience of artists. This origin story is key to understanding why their glass is so revered today. It’s a company that has always prioritized the creative process because it was founded by people who lived and breathed it. Their journey from a small, artist-driven project to a global leader in art glass is a testament to their dedication to quality, consistency, and the artists they serve.

From Art School Project to Industry Leader

It all started in Portland, Oregon, back in 1974. A group of art school graduates were frustrated with the limited and often incompatible glass options available for their work. So, they decided to make their own. Bullseye Glass was founded on the principle of creating a reliable and expansive palette of colored glass that artists could depend on. They successfully merged the precision of manufacturing with the soul of artistry, creating a product that was both technically sound and aesthetically beautiful. This unique approach allowed them to build a company that truly understands the needs of glass artists because, at its heart, it has always been a company for artists, by artists.

The Invention of Kilnforming

One of Bullseye’s most significant contributions was pioneering a system for kilnforming. Before this, creating detailed colored glass pieces often meant relying on the traditional stained glass method of joining pieces with lead lines. Bullseye developed a new way to fuse different colored glasses together in a kiln, which opened up a world of possibilities. This innovation essentially allowed artists to create painterly effects and intricate designs without the structural constraints of lead. It was a game-changer, giving creators the freedom to layer colors, blend tones, and build complex imagery, transforming glass into a medium as versatile as paint on a canvas.

Notable Projects and Artist Collaborations

Bullseye’s impact isn’t confined to individual artist studios; it can be seen in public spaces and prestigious institutions all over the world. The company has a long history of working directly with artists to realize ambitious, large-scale projects that push the boundaries of the medium. This collaborative spirit is central to their identity. By providing not just materials but also technical support and fabrication services, they help artists bring their grandest visions to life, demonstrating the incredible potential of their COE90 compatible glass system on a monumental scale.

Architectural Glass for Public Spaces

Through a specialized studio, Bullseye collaborates with artists to create breathtaking architectural glass installations. Their work is featured in some truly remarkable places, from the 36 replacement windows they fabricated for the U.S. Capitol to major installations at the Multnomah County Central Courthouse and The Corning Museum of Glass. These projects showcase the durability, vibrancy, and versatility of Bullseye glass when used in large-scale applications. Seeing their materials in such prominent locations underscores the professional-grade quality that is available to every artist, whether they’re creating a public art piece or a personal project in their home studio.

Supporting the Fine Art Community

Beyond manufacturing, Bullseye is deeply invested in the success of the art community. They actively champion artists’ work through gallery exhibitions, educational resources, and custom fabrication projects that help artists achieve complex results. This fosters a vibrant and supportive ecosystem built on a shared passion for glass art. By creating this two-way dialogue, they not only support the careers of countless artists but also gather invaluable feedback that drives their own innovation. This commitment to community is why so many artists feel a true partnership with the brand, trusting Bullseye to provide the materials for their most important creative work.

What’s in the Bullseye Glass Catalog?

The Bullseye Glass catalog is a treasure trove for any glass artist. For decades, the team at Bullseye has been hand-casting colored glass in their Portland, Oregon, factory, creating a stunning and reliable palette for artists around the world. Whether you’re working on a complex fused piece, a traditional stained glass window, or a delicate mosaic, you’ll find materials designed to inspire you. The entire collection is built around a single, dependable standard, making it easy to find compatible COE90 Glass for any project you can imagine. From foundational sheets to decorative accents, exploring the catalog is the first step in bringing your vision to life. Let’s look at the different forms of glass Bullseye offers and how you can use them in your work.

Sheet Glass: A World of Colors and Textures

Sheet glass is the foundation of countless glass art projects, and Bullseye’s selection is second to none. You’ll find a massive spectrum of colors, from subtle transparent tints to rich, dense opaques. Beyond color, the textures add another layer of creative possibility. Choose from smooth, uniform sheets for a clean look, or add depth with corded, rippled, or hammered textures. Because each sheet is hand-cast, it has a unique character that machine-made glass just can’t replicate. This makes it an ideal canvas for both large stained glass installations and detailed fused art.

Add Detail with Frit, Powder, and Confetti

If sheet glass is your canvas, then frit, powder, and confetti are your paints. These granular forms of glass let you add intricate details, shading, and texture to your work. Frit, which is crushed glass, comes in various grain sizes, from coarse to fine, perfect for creating speckled effects or textured surfaces. Powder is even finer, allowing you to create soft gradients and subtle color blends. Confetti consists of paper-thin glass shards that can be layered to produce delicate, watercolor-like effects. Using these materials is like painting with light and color, giving you precise control over your final design.

Defining Lines with Stringers, Rods, and More

For adding lines and dimensional elements to your work, turn to Bullseye’s stringers and rods. Stringers are thin, spaghetti-like strands of glass perfect for drawing intricate lines, creating outlines, or adding delicate patterns. Rods are thicker, offering more substantial linear elements that can be used for decorative accents or even small sculptural components. Both can be bent and manipulated in the kiln to create flowing, organic shapes or crisp geometric designs. Bullseye also produces other specialty forms, like collage glass, which includes a mix of elements to encourage experimentation and happy accidents.

Add a Shimmer: Iridescent and Dichroic Glass

When your project needs an extra touch of magic, explore Bullseye’s iridescent and dichroic glass. Iridescent glass is coated with a thin layer of metallic oxide, giving it a shimmering, rainbow-like sheen that subtly changes with the light. For a more dramatic effect, dichroic glass is coated with multiple micro-layers of metals that cause the glass to reflect one brilliant color while transmitting another. The result is a dazzling, color-shifting surface that adds incredible depth and energy to any piece. These specialty glasses are perfect for jewelry, focal points, and any artwork you want to stand out.

Don’t Miss Out: Limited Edition and Seasonal Glass

One of the most exciting parts of the Bullseye catalog is the ever-changing selection of limited edition and seasonal glass. These unique sheets are produced in small, special-run batches, featuring colors and patterns you won’t find in the standard lineup. From seasonal palettes to experimental new styles, these releases offer a chance to work with truly one-of-a-kind materials. Because they are made in limited quantities, they often sell out quickly. If you see a limited edition glass you love, it’s a good idea to grab it—once it’s gone, it may be gone for good.

Where to Buy Bullseye Glass Online

Once you have a project in mind, the next step is sourcing your materials. Finding a reliable supplier for Bullseye Glass is key to keeping your studio stocked and your creativity flowing. The great news is that you have several excellent options for buying online, each with its own perks. Whether you’re looking for a single sheet for a weekend project or stocking up for a large commission, you can find exactly what you need from a trusted retailer. Let’s walk through the best places to find Bullseye Glass online so you can choose the one that’s right for you.

ArtGlassSupplies.com: Your One-Stop Shop

For a truly seamless shopping experience, we’ve worked hard to make ArtGlassSupplies.com a top destination for glass artists. We offer a huge range of COE90 Bullseye glass, including sheets, rods, frit, and all the accessories you might need. Think of it as your go-to spot where you can get everything in one order. We focus on providing clear, detailed product descriptions and high-quality images so you know exactly what you’re getting before you add it to your cart. Our goal is to make it simple and convenient for you to find the perfect materials, letting you spend less time shopping and more time creating in your studio.

Buying Direct from the Bullseye Glass Store

You can also buy directly from the source at the official Bullseye Glass online store. They feature a complete selection of their products, from iridescent and collage glass to the latest limited-edition releases. One of their unique offerings is the ability to order online and pick up your items at a Bullseye Resource Center, which is a fantastic option if you live near one. It’s important to note that they apply a special packaging fee for large sheet orders to ensure everything arrives safely. For artists working on a larger scale, they also offer volume discounts on bulk purchases, which can be a great way to save.

Other Trusted Bullseye Retailers

Beyond the big online shops, you can often find Bullseye glass at various authorized retailers across the country. Many local art supply stores and specialty glass shops carry a curated selection of Bullseye products, tools, and accessories. This can be a wonderful option if you prefer to see the glass in person before buying or if you need something immediately and can’t wait for shipping. Visiting a local shop also gives you a chance to connect with your local glass art community. You can check the main Bullseye Glass website to see if there’s an authorized dealer in your area.

Bullseye Glass Resource Centers (In-Person Shopping)

While online shopping is incredibly convenient, sometimes you just need to see the glass in person. The way light hits a sheet of iridescent glass or the exact shade of a new color can be hard to capture on a screen. For those moments, Bullseye has established Resource Centers in key locations. These aren’t just stores; they’re community hubs where you can shop the full line of Bullseye products, take classes, and connect with other artists. You can find them in places like Santa Fe, the Bay Area, and New York. If you live near one, they are fantastic places to get inspired, pick up materials for a new project, and see the latest glass releases up close.

What Makes Bullseye Glass Different?

When you’re choosing glass for your next project, you’ll find a lot of options out there. So, what makes Bullseye Glass the go-to choice for so many artists, from beginners to world-renowned professionals? It’s not just about the beautiful colors. Bullseye has built its reputation on a foundation of quality, consistency, and a deep connection to the artists who use its products.

Since 1974, the team at Bullseye has been dedicated to making colored glass for art. This focus has allowed them to perfect their processes and create a product that artists can truly rely on. When you choose Bullseye, you’re not just buying a sheet of glass; you’re investing in decades of research, innovation, and a passion for the craft. Let’s look at what sets their glass apart.

Hand-Rolled in Portland, Oregon

Every sheet of Bullseye glass is handmade in their Portland, Oregon, factory. This isn’t just a charming detail—it’s the core of their quality. The hands-on process allows for meticulous control and attention to detail that you just can’t get from mass production. Each sheet is carefully mixed, rolled, and inspected by skilled craftspeople who understand the unique properties of glass. This human touch results in glass with exceptional clarity, texture, and workability. For you, the artist, this means a more predictable and enjoyable experience in the studio, whether you’re cutting a simple curve or preparing a complex fused piece for the kiln.

Reliable Color in Every Sheet

Have you ever run out of a specific color mid-project, only to find the new sheet you bought is a slightly different shade? With Bullseye, that frustration is a thing of the past. The company is famous for its incredible color consistency. Their rigorous production methods ensure that a sheet of, say, “Deep Red” purchased today will be a perfect match for one you buy years from now. This reliability is essential for creating large-scale works or series of pieces. It gives you the freedom to design without worrying about color variations, knowing you can always depend on the Bullseye palette for your COE90 projects.

Glass Designed by Artists, for Artists

Bullseye Glass doesn’t just make glass for artists; they make it with artists. The company has a long history of collaborating with glass artists from around the world. These partnerships are a driving force behind their innovation. By working directly with creators, Bullseye gains firsthand insight into what artists need and what new possibilities they want to explore. This collaborative spirit has led to the development of new colors, unique textures, and groundbreaking techniques. It ensures that the products they offer are not only high-quality but also relevant and inspiring to the artistic community they serve.

How Bullseye Prioritizes Sustainability

From its earliest days, Bullseye has been known for its forward-thinking and unconventional approach. This mindset extends to its manufacturing process. The company is committed to responsible glassmaking, which includes recycling its own glass scraps, known as cullet, to reduce waste. By reincorporating this material back into their production, they conserve resources and minimize their environmental footprint. This commitment to quality and innovation includes being mindful of their impact, ensuring that the beautiful glass you use in your art is made with care for both the craft and the planet.

Investing in Clean Air Technology

Running a glass factory comes with serious responsibilities, and Bullseye has shown a clear commitment to meeting them. When harmful heavy metals were discovered in the air near their Portland factory, the company took immediate action. They voluntarily stopped using certain metals, which meant temporarily limiting their production of some glass colors. By the end of that year, they had invested in and installed a specialized air-cleaning system known as a baghouse. This technology successfully reduced all their air pollution to safe, legally required levels, demonstrating their dedication to the health of their community and their employees.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Bullseye’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond air quality. The company has made significant investments in technology to make their factory more environmentally friendly. For example, they use a special system that mixes oxygen with natural gas, a change that dramatically cuts their natural gas consumption and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by over 60%. They’ve also implemented a cooling-water recycling system that cuts their water usage by 60%. These aren’t small changes; they are major operational upgrades that show a deep-seated commitment to minimizing their environmental footprint while continuing to produce the high-quality COE90 glass artists rely on.

Navigating Modern Business Hurdles

Like many American manufacturers, Bullseye faces its share of modern business challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the complexity of the modern supply chain. Many essential parts and materials are no longer made in the U.S., which means sourcing them can be a slow and difficult process. Despite these obstacles, the company remains deeply rooted in its identity as an art-focused business in Portland. They believe this focus makes them a good fit for their community, and they continue to adapt and persevere, ensuring that artists have access to the unique, handcrafted glass they are known for.

Understanding the Technical Side of Bullseye Glass

While the artistry of glass is all about color and light, a little bit of science can go a long way in helping you get the results you want. Understanding the basic chemistry of Bullseye glass and how it behaves in the kiln are the keys to unlocking its full potential. You don’t need a degree in physics to master kiln-forming, but knowing a couple of core principles will make your studio time more predictable and a lot more fun. Let’s look at what Bullseye glass is made of and the one simple rule that governs how it moves in the heat.

The Science of Soda-Lime Glass

At its core, the glass you love to work with is a specific type known as soda-lime glass. As the team at Bullseye explains, “soda-lime glass is mainly made from silica, soda (sodium carbonate), and lime (calcium oxide).” Think of silica, which comes from sand, as the main ingredient that forms the glass itself. Soda is added to lower the melting temperature, making it workable in a studio kiln, while lime acts as a stabilizer to make the final product strong and durable. This specific recipe is what gives Bullseye glass its reliable COE90 rating and its beautiful working properties. Understanding this simple chemistry helps you appreciate why compatibility is so important and how this carefully crafted material is designed for artistic success.

The Six Millimeter Rule Explained

If you’ve ever wondered why your fused pieces come out a certain thickness, the answer lies in the Six Millimeter Rule. Bullseye Glass has defined this principle perfectly: “When held at its full fusing temperature for an adequate amount of time, Bullseye glass will follow the Six Millimeter Rule and assume a thickness of 6 mm.” This means that glass, in its molten state, naturally wants to settle at a uniform thickness of about a quarter-inch. The most common application of this rule is stacking two standard 3mm sheets of glass. When fused, they will combine into a single, smooth 6mm piece. If you use less glass, it will pull inward; if you use more, it will spread out unless contained by dams or molds. Mastering this rule is a game-changer for controlling the final shape and dimension of your work.

How to Save on Bullseye Glass

Let’s be honest—building your glass collection is one of the best parts of being a glass artist, but it can also be an investment. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to stock your studio with beautiful, high-quality Bullseye glass. With a little planning and some savvy shopping strategies, you can get the materials you need while keeping your budget in check. Here are a few practical ways to save on your next glass purchase, so you can focus more on creating and less on costs.

Buying in Bulk: Volume and Wholesale Pricing

If you have go-to colors you find yourself reaching for again and again, buying in bulk is one of the smartest ways to save. Many suppliers offer attractive volume discounts when you purchase larger quantities of the same item. This is perfect for stocking up on essentials like clear, black, or your signature palette colors for big projects. Planning ahead allows you to consolidate your purchases and take advantage of these lower prices. It’s a simple strategy that can make a big difference in your overall supply costs, freeing up more of your budget for that one-of-a-kind specialty sheet you’ve been eyeing.

Try More for Less with Glass Packs and Samplers

Feeling adventurous? Glass packs and samplers are your best friend when you want to experiment without committing to full sheets. These curated collections are a fantastic, cost-effective way to explore new colors, textures, and styles. Think of them as a creative jumpstart, offering a variety of compatible COE90 glass to inspire your next project. Instead of guessing which colors will work together, you get a pre-selected palette that’s ready to go. It’s an ideal way to broaden your artistic horizons, test new techniques, and discover your next favorite type of glass, all while being gentle on your wallet.

Keep an Eye Out for Sales and Promotions

Patience can really pay off when it comes to buying art supplies. Throughout the year, Bullseye and its authorized retailers often run seasonal sales and promotions that offer significant discounts. Keep an eye out for events like studio supply sales or holiday specials. The best way to stay in the loop is to subscribe to newsletters from your favorite suppliers (like ours!). This way, you’ll be the first to know when a sale is coming up. Planning your bigger purchases around these events is a great habit to get into and can lead to substantial savings over time.

Need Something Special? How to Place a Custom Order

For those truly unique projects where a standard sheet just won’t cut it, don’t forget about custom fabrication. If you’re an artist or designer with a very specific vision, reaching out to Bullseye Studio for a custom order can be a game-changer. While it might seem like a premium service, it can actually save you time, effort, and material waste in the long run. Getting a piece made to your exact specifications means you can focus on the creative part of your work instead of spending hours trying to source or shape the perfect component. It’s a valuable option for professional-level work that demands precision.

Ordering and Shipping Your Glass

Once you’ve picked out the perfect sheets, frit, and stringers for your next project, the next step is getting them to your studio. The process is designed to be simple and secure, ensuring your materials arrive ready for the kiln. Whether you live across the country or just down the road from our warehouse, here’s what you can expect when you place an order. We take great care in packing every box because we know how exciting it is to unbox new glass.

How to Place Your Order

Shopping for your supplies online is straightforward. You can browse through our extensive collections of COE90 glass and other essentials, adding items to your cart as you go. When you’re ready, the checkout process will guide you through the final steps. You’ll be able to review your order, enter your shipping information, and select your payment method. It’s a simple way to stock your studio with everything you need without ever leaving home. We process orders quickly to get your supplies on their way to you as soon as possible.

How We Pack Your Glass for Safe Shipping

We understand that glass is fragile, and getting it to you safely is our top priority. Large sheets of glass require special handling to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Because of this, a packaging fee is applied to these items to cover the cost of the extra materials and care needed to protect them during transit. This small fee ensures your beautiful stained glass sheets are secure and ready for your creative touch, minimizing any risk of breakage. Think of it as peace of mind for your precious materials.

Prefer to Pick It Up? In-Store Options

If you’re in the New England area, you have the convenient option of picking up your order directly from our warehouse in Goffstown, New Hampshire. This is a fantastic way to save on shipping costs and get your hands on your new supplies even faster. Simply select the local pickup option during checkout, and we’ll notify you when your order is ready. It’s a great opportunity for local artists to connect with us and get their materials without the wait. We love seeing our local artist community thrive.

Shipping Bullseye Glass Internationally

We proudly ship our glass supplies to artists around the globe. If you’re ordering from outside the United States, it’s important to know that shipping costs and delivery times will vary based on your location. Our checkout process will provide you with shipping estimates, but for the most accurate information, you can review our detailed shipping policies. We recommend checking these details before finalizing your order to ensure a smooth delivery. Our team is dedicated to getting your glass to you, no matter where your studio is located.

How to Choose the Right Glass for Your Project

Okay, you’re ready to start creating, but first comes the fun part: picking your glass! With so many beautiful options, it can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry, it really comes down to three key things: making sure your glass is compatible, choosing a color palette you love, and getting the right size for your design. Thinking through these steps before you buy will set you up for a smooth and successful project from the very beginning. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Getting COE90 Compatibility Right

If you’re planning to fuse glass in a kiln, compatibility is the most important rule. All glass expands when heated and shrinks when cooled. The “Coefficient of Expansion,” or COE, measures that rate of change. For pieces to fuse together successfully without cracking, all the glass in your project must have the same COE. Thankfully, Bullseye makes this easy. All of their glass is tested to be COE90 compatible. This means you can confidently mix and match any Bullseye sheets, frits, and stringers, knowing they will play nicely together in the kiln and result in a strong, stable finished piece.

How to Select the Perfect Color Palette

Now for the best part—color! Bullseye is famous for its incredible range of rich, consistent colors. Whether you’re looking for transparents, opaques, or specialty textures like iridescent glass, you’ll find it. As you browse, keep an eye out for their “Limited Edition” glass. These are unique, small-batch colors that are only produced once. If you see a limited run that speaks to you, it’s a good idea to grab enough for your entire project, because once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. Planning your palette ahead of time ensures you have all the beautiful stained glass you need to bring your vision to life.

Picking the Perfect Thickness and Size

The final piece of the puzzle is choosing the right thickness and size for your project. Bullseye sheet glass typically comes in a standard 3mm thickness, which is perfect for most fusing and stained glass work. However, you can also find thinner 2mm sheets, which are great for delicate layering. The size of the sheet you buy also matters. We offer a variety of sizes, so you don’t have to purchase a huge sheet for a small jewelry project. Consider the scale of your design and the size of your molds or kiln shelf to choose a sheet size that minimizes waste and fits your budget.

Get Help: Educational Resources and Support

Working with glass is a journey of constant learning and discovery. Whether you’re figuring out the perfect firing temperature or looking for your next big idea, having reliable resources makes all the difference. One of the best things about using Bullseye Glass is the incredible ecosystem of support that comes with it. The company is deeply invested in the success of the artists who use their products, so they provide a ton of educational materials to help you get the best results.

From highly technical guides to creative project starters, you can find information that meets you right where you are. This support system is fantastic for building confidence, especially if you’re new to glass fusing or stained glass. It helps you move past the trial-and-error phase faster and get right to the fun part: creating beautiful things. Think of these resources as your creative safety net, giving you the freedom to experiment while knowing you have expert advice to fall back on. It’s this commitment to education that helps artists turn a simple sheet of COE90 glass into a true work of art.

Master Your Kiln with Firing Schedules and Tech Guides

Getting your kiln settings just right is one of the most critical parts of glass fusing. Thankfully, Bullseye takes the guesswork out of the process by providing a wealth of technical resources. You can find detailed firing schedules designed specifically for their glass, which helps ensure your projects come out of the kiln looking exactly as you envisioned. These guides cover everything from basic fusing and slumping to more complex techniques. Following these recommendations is the best way to achieve consistent, professional results and avoid common issues like cracking or unwanted bubbles. It’s like having a master glass artist sharing their notes with you.

Get Inspired with Project Tutorials and Ideas

Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Bullseye’s online store is a great place to find fresh inspiration. They feature a variety of project tutorials and ideas that show you different ways to use their glass. These resources are perfect for exploring new techniques or simply seeing how different colors and forms work together. Bullseye also encourages experimentation by offering curated glass packs, which are perfect for playing with new palettes and concepts without committing to full sheets. Whether you want to make jewelry, a decorative plate, or a complex wall panel, you’ll find plenty of ideas to get you started.

Find a Kiln with the KilnSpace Tool

One of the biggest hurdles when you’re starting out with glass fusing is access to a kiln. They’re a major investment in both money and space, and it’s not always practical to own one right away. Bullseye Glass understands this challenge, which is why they created ‘KilnSpace.’ If you need a kiln for your glass projects but don’t own one, this is the resource for you. KilnSpace is a free online tool designed to help you find places to rent a glass kiln in your area. It connects you with a network of studios, schools, and fellow artists who have kiln time available, making it so much easier to get your projects fired and finished.

Take a Virtual Factory Tour

Have you ever wondered how those stunning sheets of glass are actually made? It’s one thing to read about the hand-rolling process, but it’s another to see it in action. To get a real appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into every piece, you can take a virtual tour of the Bullseye Factory in Portland. This behind-the-scenes look shows you the entire journey, from mixing raw materials to pulling vibrant, molten glass. Seeing the skill and care involved gives you a deeper connection to the materials you work with. It’s a fascinating peek into their world and a great way to understand why their quality and color consistency are so trusted by artists.

Connect with Other Artists in Workshops and Forums

Sometimes, the best way to learn is by connecting with other people. Bullseye fosters a vibrant artist community through its educational programs and galleries. They offer workshops and online classes where you can learn directly from experienced instructors and connect with fellow glass enthusiasts. Beyond formal classes, they also showcase artist work in exhibitions and provide forums for sharing ideas and asking questions. This community support is invaluable, as it gives you a space to share your successes, troubleshoot challenges, and see what other artists are creating. It reminds you that you’re part of a larger creative world.

Get the Right Tools for Your Project

Once you’ve chosen your beautiful sheets of Bullseye glass, the next step is gathering the right equipment to bring your ideas to life. Having the proper tools not only makes the process safer and more efficient, but it also opens up a world of creative possibilities. Think of your tools as your trusted studio assistants—they help you cut clean lines, shape your pieces perfectly, and achieve that professional finish. Investing in quality gear from the start will save you a lot of frustration and help you get the results you’re aiming for, whether you’re cutting your first piece of stained glass or firing a complex fused panel.

Your Essential Cutting and Safety Checklist

Before you make your first cut, let’s talk about safety. Working with glass is incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to protect yourself. Always have safety glasses on to shield your eyes from any small shards. From there, your most fundamental tool is a quality glass cutter. Paired with running pliers, it allows you to make clean, straight scores and breaks. For refining edges and nipping away small pieces, grozing pliers are indispensable. These basic tools form the foundation of any glass artist’s kit. Getting comfortable with them is the first step to executing your designs with precision and confidence, ensuring every piece fits just right.

Everything You Need for Firing: Kilns, Molds, and More

For artists working with fused glass, the kiln is the heart of the studio. It’s where the real magic happens. Whether you’re starting with a small tabletop model for jewelry or need a larger one for architectural pieces, we offer a range of kilns to fit your space and ambitions. To give your work shape and dimension, you’ll want to explore different molds for slumping and draping. These allow you to transform flat sheets of glass into bowls, plates, and sculptural forms. Don’t forget essential firing supplies like kiln wash and fiber paper, which protect your kiln shelves and prevent your art from sticking during the firing process.

Helpful Guides and Support

The best tools aren’t always physical objects. Sometimes, the most valuable resource is knowledge. When you’re working with Bullseye glass, referencing their detailed firing schedules is a game-changer. These guides provide tested temperature and timing recommendations that take the guesswork out of slumping, fusing, and casting, helping you avoid common pitfalls. Many artists also find inspiration and troubleshooting help from online tutorials and community forums. Think of these resources as part of your toolkit. They provide the support and technical guidance you need to experiment with new techniques and confidently tackle more ambitious projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix Bullseye glass with glass from other brands in my kiln? For any project you plan to fuse in a kiln, it’s essential that all the glass has the same Coefficient of Expansion (COE). Bullseye glass is all tested compatible at COE90. Mixing it with glass of a different COE, like COE96, will cause stress and cracking as the piece cools. So, for fusing, you should stick exclusively with Bullseye or other COE90-compatible glass to ensure your work is strong and stable.

I’m new to glass fusing. What’s the best way to start with Bullseye glass? Welcome to the club! The best place to begin is with the basics. Start with a few sheets of your favorite colors to get a feel for cutting and handling the glass. I also highly recommend grabbing a glass pack or sampler. These curated collections give you a variety of colors and textures to experiment with, which is a fantastic and budget-friendly way to discover what you love to work with before committing to larger sheets.

Is Bullseye glass only for kiln-forming, or can I use it for traditional stained glass? It’s wonderful for both! While Bullseye is famous for its COE90 compatibility in kiln work, its high quality and stunning color consistency also make it a dream to work with for traditional stained glass projects. The glass is known for being easy to cut and shape, which means you can achieve clean, precise lines for your panels and suncatchers.

What’s the real difference between iridescent and dichroic glass? Think of it in terms of subtlety versus drama. Iridescent glass has a thin metallic coating that gives it a beautiful, shimmering rainbow-like luster, almost like an oil slick on water. The effect is delicate and elegant. Dichroic glass, on the other hand, is coated with multiple micro-layers of metals that create a dramatic, color-shifting effect. It will appear as one brilliant color when light reflects off it and a completely different color when light passes through it, giving your work incredible depth and energy.

Why should I buy a “Limited Edition” glass if it might run out? That’s exactly what makes it so special! Limited Edition glass is produced in small, experimental batches, offering unique colors and patterns you won’t find anywhere else. Using it ensures your work has a one-of-a-kind quality. The key is to plan ahead. If you fall in love with a limited run, be sure to buy enough for your entire project at once, because when it’s gone, it may be gone for good. It’s a chance to create with something truly unique.