Opening your kiln to find a cracked piece is heartbreaking. The culprit? Almost always, it’s incompatible glass. Successful fusing depends on materials that expand and contract together—a property measured by the Coefficient of Expansion (COE). This is where Bullseye compatible 90 glass saves the day. It’s a tested system that removes the guesswork, ensuring your projects come out strong and beautiful. In this guide, we’ll cover what is Bullseye glass, its incredible versatility, and the right bullseye fusing schedule to use. You’ll have all the info you need to confidently buy Bullseye fusing glass for your next creation.

Key Takeaways

• Rely on COE 90 for Predictable Results: Bullseye Glass is designed as a complete system with a consistent COE 90. This allows you to confidently mix any of their sheets, frits, and stringers in the kiln, knowing they will fuse together perfectly without cracking from incompatibility.
• Combine Different Styles for Deeper Designs: Move beyond basic colors by layering different types of glass. Use transparents to let light shine through, opals for solid color, and add a shimmering finish with iridescent or dichroic glass to create pieces with incredible visual depth.
• Shop Smart to Build Your Glass Collection: Quality glass is an investment, but you can manage costs by purchasing from authorized dealers, looking for bulk discounts on colors you use often, and taking advantage of sales or free shipping offers to stock your studio affordably.

What is Bullseye Compatible 90 Glass?

If you’ve spent any time in the world of glass art, you’ve almost certainly heard of Bullseye Glass. It’s a name that comes up again and again, beloved by both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic beginners. So, what’s all the fuss about? Simply put, Bullseye Glass is a line of high-quality, handmade glass specifically designed for fusing, kilnforming, and other warm glass arts. It’s known for its consistency, vibrant colors, and, most importantly, its reliability, which takes the guesswork out of your creative process.

Based in Portland, Oregon, the Bullseye Glass Company has built a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and innovation since the 1970s. For artists like us, this means we get a product we can depend on, project after project. When you’re investing time, energy, and other materials into a piece, the last thing you want is for your glass to behave unpredictably in the kiln. Whether you’re creating intricate fused panels, delicate jewelry, or stunning stained glass pieces, Bullseye provides a predictable and beautiful medium to bring your vision to life. Its versatility and quality are why so many artists consider it the gold standard in fusible glass. Let’s get into the specific reasons why it’s such a studio staple.

The Official Stance on Compatibility

When you’re working with fusible glass, compatibility is everything—it’s the key to preventing those heartbreaking cracks that can ruin a piece. Bullseye Glass is designed as a complete, tested system where every sheet, frit, and stringer shares a consistent Coefficient of Expansion (COE) of 90. This means you can mix and match any Bullseye products with confidence. However, it’s important to understand what ‘compatible’ really means. According to Bullseye, matching COE numbers from different manufacturers doesn’t guarantee they will work together. They emphasize that the only way to be certain their glass will work with another brand is to conduct your own thorough tests. For artists who want to avoid the extra time and potential frustration, sticking exclusively with the Bullseye COE 90 system is the most reliable path to success. It removes the guesswork and lets you focus on your creativity.

Why COE 90 Compatibility Matters

One of the biggest reasons artists love Bullseye is its compatibility. Bullseye glass has a Coefficient of Expansion (COE) of 90. In simple terms, COE measures how much glass expands and contracts when heated and cooled. For successful fusing, all the glass in your project must have the same COE. If they don’t, your piece can crack or even shatter. Bullseye’s reliable COE90 Glass works beautifully with other COE 90 glasses, giving you incredible creative freedom. As the experts at Melt Glass Art Supply note, “Bullseye glass works well with other COE 90 glasses (like Wissmach), they suggest you always test your glass if you’re not sure.” This compatibility lets you confidently mix and match, knowing your final piece will be strong and stable.

Consistent Quality in Every Sheet

In an era of mass production, there’s something special about working with materials made with care. This is where Bullseye truly shines. Every single sheet is made by hand and carefully checked for quality before it ever leaves the factory. According to the Bullseye Online Store, “Each sheet is manufactured by hand, inspected for quality, and shipped from our factory in Portland, OR.” This dedication to craftsmanship means you get a consistent, high-quality product every time. You can trust that the colors will be rich, the texture will be just right, and the glass will be free of defects that could ruin your work. This reliability is a huge part of why artists choose Bullseye for their most important stained glass projects.

Is Bullseye Glass Right for Your Project?

Versatility is another key reason Bullseye is a studio favorite. It’s not just for one type of glass art; it’s a fantastic choice for a wide range of techniques. The Bullseye Online Store points out that “You can use this glass for many art projects, like kilnforming (heating glass in a special oven), fusing (melting glass together), making stained glass, or mosaics.” This means you can stock your studio with Bullseye glass and use it for almost any project you can dream up. Whether you’re loading up your kilns for a complex fusing schedule or cutting pieces for a traditional stained glass window, Bullseye glass performs beautifully, giving you consistent and stunning results across different applications.

Where Can You Buy Bullseye Fusing Glass?

Once you’ve decided to work with Bullseye glass, the next step is finding a reliable place to buy it. You want a supplier who not only has a great selection but also understands the needs of glass artists. Getting your hands on authentic, high-quality glass is crucial for predictable results in the kiln, so where you shop matters. Look for authorized dealers who can guarantee the glass you’re buying is the real deal, ensuring its compatibility and quality. This saves you from the headache of dealing with inconsistent materials and lets you focus on your creative process.

Our Top Pick: ArtGlassSupplies.com

When you’re ready to stock your studio, we’ve got you covered. As a leading online retailer, we offer a huge inventory of Bullseye COE90 glass, from vibrant sheet glass and stringers to versatile frit and powders. We make it easy to find exactly what you need for any project, all in one place. Shopping with us means you’re getting authentic Bullseye products shipped directly from our warehouse. We’re artists and hobbyists ourselves, so we understand the importance of quality materials and reliable service. Think of us as your partner in creativity, here to supply the building blocks for your next masterpiece.

How to Find Other Trusted Suppliers

While we’d love to be your one-stop shop, it’s smart to know your options. The most important thing is to purchase from an authorized Bullseye dealer. This ensures you’re getting genuine, tested-compatible glass that will perform as expected in the kiln. You can typically find a list of trusted sellers on the official Bullseye Glass Co. website. Local stained glass shops can also be great resources, especially if you want to see the colors and textures in person. Building a relationship with a knowledgeable supplier, whether online or local, is one of the best steps you can take for your art.

Should You Buy Online or In Bulk?

Shopping for glass online offers incredible convenience and selection. You can browse thousands of colors and styles from the comfort of your studio without being limited to what a local store has in stock. It also makes it easier to purchase other essentials, like molds and tools, at the same time. For artists who work on large projects or sell their pieces, buying in bulk online can be a game-changer. Many suppliers offer discounts on larger quantities, which significantly lowers your cost per project. This allows you to experiment more freely and keep your studio well-stocked for whenever inspiration strikes.

Exploring Bullseye Glass Colors and Styles

One of the best parts of working with Bullseye glass is the incredible range of options. It’s like walking into the world’s best candy store for artists. You can find glass in every color imaginable, from fiery reds and deep blues to classic black and white. But the variety doesn’t stop at color. Bullseye offers different styles, finishes, and textures that can bring a whole new dimension to your work.

Whether you’re creating a simple, elegant piece or a complex, multi-layered design, there’s a type of Bullseye glass that’s perfect for your vision. Getting to know the main categories will help you choose the right materials and predict how they’ll look after firing.

Choosing Between Transparent, Opal, and Iridized Glass

When you browse for sheet glass, you’ll see terms like “transparent,” “opalescent,” and “iridescent.” Transparent glass is exactly what it sounds like—it’s clear, colored glass that you can see through, perfect for projects where you want light to create a luminous effect. Opalescent glass, or “opal,” is opaque and doesn’t transmit light, giving you solid, rich color. Many artists mix transparents and opals to create depth. Iridescent glass has a shimmery, metallic coating on one side that creates a beautiful rainbow-like finish. This coating can handle the heat of the kiln, adding a magical touch to fused pieces.

Fusible vs. Non-Fusible: What’s the Difference?

This is a big one. For your glass to fuse together properly in a kiln without cracking, it needs to be “fusible.” This means it has been tested to ensure it expands and contracts at the same rate when heated and cooled. All Bullseye glass is COE 90 glass, making it a reliable system for artists who do kilnforming. When you’re shopping, you can be confident that any Bullseye sheet, frit, or stringer you buy will be compatible with others in the same family. This takes the guesswork out of the process so you can focus on your creativity.

Understanding Bullseye Glass Grades: F-Grade, P-Grade, and Curious

While we’ve established that Bullseye is a tested-compatible COE 90 system, it’s still important to understand their grading to make sure you’re grabbing the right sheet for your project. You’ll mainly see ‘F-Grade,’ which stands for ‘Fusible.’ This is the glass that has passed Bullseye’s strict factory tests for color and compatibility, making it the go-to choice for any kilnwork. In contrast, ‘P-Grade’ glass is non-fusible and is better suited for traditional stained glass techniques where compatibility in the kiln isn’t a factor. Finally, there’s ‘Curious’ glass, a fun line with unique colors and textures. As Bullseye explains, this glass can be either fusible or non-fusible, so always double-check the label before you buy. Knowing these simple distinctions will save you from potential heartbreak and ensure your vision comes out of the kiln just as you planned.

Adding Flair with Textures and Dichroic Glass

Beyond smooth sheets, Bullseye offers an amazing selection of textured and specialty glass. You can find sheets with patterns like ripples or reeds that add physical depth to your work, especially when paired with slumping molds. The fun also comes in different forms, including frit (crushed glass), stringers (thin rods), and ribbons. For a truly eye-catching effect, explore dichroic glass. This glass is coated with micro-layers of metals, which makes it reflect different colors depending on the angle of the light. It’s a fantastic way to add a vibrant, dynamic element to jewelry and other decorative pieces.

Working with Striking Colors

The sheer variety of colors is one of the most exciting aspects of working with Bullseye glass. It truly feels like a candy store for artists, offering a spectrum that runs from fiery reds and deep blues to essential blacks and whites. This extensive palette allows you to find the perfect hue for any project, whether you’re matching a specific design or letting the colors inspire a new one. The consistency of these colors from sheet to sheet means you can rely on them for large-scale projects or for recreating a popular design. Having such a rich and dependable color system at your fingertips gives you the freedom to fully express your artistic vision without compromise.

Single-Rolled vs. Double-Rolled Sheets

As you explore Bullseye sheet glass, you’ll notice descriptions like “single-rolled” or “double-rolled.” These terms refer to the manufacturing process and affect the sheet’s final texture. Single-rolled glass is formed on a single roller, which can create unique, organic patterns and is often used for collage-style sheets. Double-rolled glass is pressed between two rollers, resulting in a much more uniform and smooth surface on both sides. Your choice depends on your project’s needs. A double-rolled sheet provides a clean, consistent canvas, while a single-rolled sheet can introduce subtle, natural texture right from the start.

Exploring Other Forms: Frit, Rods, and More

While sheet glass is a studio staple, Bullseye’s creative potential extends far beyond that. The same high-quality, compatible COE 90 glass is also available in other forms, giving you more tools for adding detail, texture, and dimension to your work. Frit, which is crushed glass, can be used for shading or creating granular designs. Rods and stringers are perfect for drawing lines or adding delicate details. These accessory glasses are designed to work seamlessly with the sheet glass, allowing you to build complex, layered pieces with confidence. Experimenting with these different forms can open up a whole new world of artistic possibilities.

Bullseye Frit: Powders, Fines, and Coarse

Bullseye frit is made by crushing, filtering, and purifying fusible sheet glass, making it a versatile tool for many glass art techniques. It comes in five distinct sizes: extra large, coarse, medium, fine, and powder. Each size offers a different effect. Powders are excellent for creating soft, airbrushed color gradients, while fine and medium frits can be used for more defined, textured areas. Coarse and extra-large frits create bold, chunky patterns that add significant dimension. Using different frit sizes allows you to control the texture and detail in your kilnformed pieces with incredible precision.

Bullseye Rods: Fusible vs. Torchwork

When working with rods, it’s important to know the difference between grades. Bullseye produces rods graded as either F (fusible) or T (torchwork only). F-grade rods are tested-compatible with the entire Bullseye COE 90 system, making them suitable for both kilnforming and flameworking. You can confidently add them to your fused projects knowing they won’t cause stress cracks. T-grade rods, on the other hand, are formulated specifically for torchworking and are not compatible for fusing in a kiln. Always check the grade to ensure your project comes out of the kiln strong and stable.

Bullseye COE 90 vs. System 96 Glass

As you build your glass collection, you’ll quickly encounter another major player in the fusing world: System 96. While Bullseye is the standard for COE 90 glass, System 96 is a family of glass with a COE of 96, including popular brands like Wissmach and formerly Spectrum. Both systems offer a fantastic range of colors and are used by artists worldwide. However, the most critical thing to remember is that they are not compatible with each other. Trying to fuse a COE 90 glass with a COE 96 glass will almost certainly lead to a cracked piece. Understanding the key differences between them will help you choose the right system for your studio and avoid costly mistakes in the kiln.

Why You Can’t Mix Different COEs

The rule about not mixing COEs is the most important one in glass fusing. The “Coefficient of Expansion” (COE) measures how much a specific glass expands when heated and contracts when it cools. Bullseye has a COE of 90, while System 96 has a COE of 96. This might not sound like a big difference, but in the intense heat of a kiln, it’s huge. Because they expand and contract by different amounts, fusing them together creates immense internal stress as the piece cools. This stress has nowhere to go, so the glass relieves it by cracking, often long after it has come out of the kiln.

Key Differences in Size and Workability

Beyond compatibility, there are practical differences between the two systems. Bullseye sheets are typically smaller, often around 89cm x 51cm, which can be easier to handle and store in a small studio. System 96 sheets are generally larger, around 122cm x 61cm, making them a good choice for bigger projects where you want to minimize seams. Some artists also notice a difference in how the glass cuts and handles, but this often comes down to personal preference. The color palettes also differ; Bullseye is known for its curated and extensive range of artistic colors, while System 96 offers a solid selection of reliable basics.

Cost and Availability Comparison

Budget is always a consideration when stocking a studio. Generally, System 96 glass tends to be a bit more affordable for common colors, which can make it an attractive option for beginners or artists producing a high volume of work. However, prices for specialty colors and styles can be comparable across both systems. Both Bullseye and System 96 glass are widely available from major suppliers, including here at ArtGlassSupplies.com. Ultimately, the choice between them isn’t about which is better, but which one fits your artistic style, project needs, and budget.

How Much Does Bullseye Glass Cost?

Investing in high-quality glass is one of the best decisions you can make for your art, and Bullseye is a top choice for a reason. While it’s a premium material, the price is more flexible than you might think. The cost of a single sheet can range from around $24 to over $180, but several factors play into that final number. Understanding what drives the price is the first step to building your collection without breaking the bank.

The type of glass, its size, and any special characteristics all affect the cost. But being a smart shopper can make a huge difference. By keeping an eye out for sales, taking advantage of shipping deals, and buying in larger quantities, you can get the materials you need for a much better price. Think of it as curating your studio’s supply with both your creative vision and your budget in mind. We’ll walk through exactly what to look for so you can feel confident in every purchase.

What Factors Influence the Price?

A few key things determine the price tag on a sheet of Bullseye glass. First is the type of glass itself. Simple transparent sheets are often the most affordable, while complex opals, iridescent coatings, and especially vibrant dichroic glass will cost more due to the intricate manufacturing process. The size of the sheet also matters—while larger sheets have a higher initial cost, they can offer a better value per square inch. Finally, unique textures and hand-rolled characteristics can add to the price, reflecting the artistry that went into making the sheet before it even reaches your studio.

How to Find Sales and Shipping Deals

One of the best ways to manage your supply costs is to look for sales and shipping offers. Many suppliers offer everyday discounts or run special promotions, so it’s always a good idea to check for deals before you buy. Shipping, in particular, can add up quickly when you’re ordering heavy materials like glass. Look for suppliers that offer free shipping after you spend a certain amount. This is a fantastic way to save, especially when you’re stocking up on several sheets of COE 90 glass or heavy tools for your studio.

Save More with Bulk Buys and Loyalty Points

If you’re a frequent buyer or need to stock up for a big project, look for volume discounts. Many retailers reward you for buying in bulk, lowering the price per sheet when you purchase a certain quantity at once. This is perfect for artists who consistently use specific colors or are building a foundational palette for their work. It’s also worth signing up for your favorite supplier’s email newsletter. This is often the best way to get early access to sales, receive exclusive coupons, and learn about loyalty programs that can lead to significant savings over time.

Your Pre-Purchase Checklist for Bullseye Glass

You’ve explored the colors and styles, and your cart is starting to fill up. Before you finalize that order, let’s walk through a few key considerations. Thinking about your project’s needs, the compatibility of your materials, and the logistics of shipping will ensure you have a smooth and successful creative process from start to finish. A little planning now saves a lot of headaches later, so you can spend more time creating and less time troubleshooting. These simple steps will help you purchase your Bullseye glass with confidence, knowing you’ve covered all your bases.

How to Match the Right Glass to Your Project

The sheer variety of Bullseye glass is one of its biggest draws, but it also means you have some decisions to make. Think about the final look you’re aiming for. Do you need light to pass through your piece, or do you want a solid, opaque finish? Bullseye offers a stunning range of options, from vibrant transparents and opals to shimmering iridescents and dichroic styles. You can also find unique textures like reeded, granite, or ripple to add depth and character. Matching the glass to your project’s vision is the first step to creating a piece you’ll love. Take some time to browse the different types of COE90 glass to find the perfect fit for your design.

The Golden Rule: Always Test Your Glass First

One of the golden rules of glass fusing is to always test for compatibility, especially when mixing glass from different manufacturers. While Bullseye glass is reliably COE 90, it’s always a smart move to test it with other COE 90 glass, like Wissmach, before committing to a large project. A simple test fuse—firing a small piece of each glass together in your kiln—can save you from the heartbreak of cracks caused by thermal incompatibility. This quick step confirms that the glasses will expand and contract at the same rate, ensuring your finished piece is strong and stable. When in doubt, test it out!

How to Perform a Compatibility Test with Polarizing Film

A polarizing film test is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to see the hidden stress between two different types of glass. The process is simple and doesn’t require any complicated equipment. First, you’ll need to fuse a small sample by taking a piece of glass you trust, like a scrap of Bullseye, and placing it next to a piece of the glass you want to test. Fire them together in your kiln until they’re joined into a single, solid piece. After the firing, it’s essential to let the sample cool down completely and anneal properly, as this ensures you’re testing for thermal incompatibility, not just stress from rapid cooling.

Once your sample has cooled to room temperature, it’s time for the moment of truth. Place it between two sheets of polarizing film and hold the whole setup in front of a bright light source, like a window or a light table. Look very closely at the seam where the two types of glass meet. If you see a bright halo or a distinct light ring forming around the edge of one of the glasses, that’s a clear visual sign of stress, which means they are not compatible. If the area around the seam remains dark and you don’t see a halo, you’re good to go! The glasses are compatible, and you can move forward with your project with confidence.

Tips for Safe Shipping and Handling

Getting your beautiful new glass to your studio in one piece is a top priority. Keep in mind that larger sheets often require special packaging to prevent breakage during transit, which may come with an extra fee. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. When your package arrives, inspect it carefully for any signs of damage before you open it. Once you unbox your glass, always handle it with care—the edges can be extremely sharp. It’s a good practice to wear safety gloves to protect your hands. Storing your sheets vertically in a designated rack will also help keep them safe and organized until you’re ready to start cutting.

Working with Bullseye Glass: Firing and Best Practices

Once you have your beautiful sheets of Bullseye glass, the real fun begins. This is where your artistic vision meets the science of heat and chemistry inside the kiln. But getting a perfect result isn’t just about having the right materials; it’s about following the right process. From preparing your glass to programming your kiln, a few key practices can make the difference between a stunning masterpiece and a frustrating learning experience. Following these steps will help you get consistent, professional-quality results every time you fire up your kiln, ensuring your finished pieces are as strong as they are beautiful.

Cleaning Glass for a Perfect Finish

Before you even think about stacking your glass, the first and most critical step is to clean it thoroughly. Any fingerprints, oils, or even dust can cause unwanted reactions in the kiln, leading to hazy spots called devitrification or trapped bubbles. While it might be tempting to grab your household window cleaner, it’s best to avoid products with ammonia or detergents, as they can leave behind a residue that interferes with the fusing process. A simple wipe-down with a lint-free cloth and a 50/50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water is usually all you need. Taking a few extra minutes to ensure your glass is spotless is one of the easiest ways to guarantee a clean, professional finish.

The 6-Millimeter Rule Explained

When you start layering your glass for a project, a good guideline to follow is the 6-millimeter rule. This principle suggests that the ideal total thickness for a fused piece is about 6mm, or roughly a quarter of an inch. This thickness allows the glass to heat and cool evenly throughout, which is essential for preventing thermal shock and stress cracks. Most standard sheets of Bullseye glass are 3mm thick, so a simple two-layer stack fits this rule perfectly. While you can certainly work with thicker or thinner pieces, the 6mm rule is a reliable starting point, especially for beginners. It provides a stable foundation that is less likely to crack during the firing and annealing stages.

Understanding the Firing Process

The firing process is where the transformation happens, turning separate pieces of glass into a single, cohesive work of art. It’s more than just turning the kiln on and off; it involves a carefully controlled schedule of heating and cooling to achieve specific results. The two most common kilnforming techniques are fusing and slumping, and while they both involve heat, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the distinction between them, along with the critical role of the annealing cycle, is fundamental to controlling the outcome of your work and ensuring your pieces last a lifetime.

Fusing vs. Slumping: A Two-Step Process

Fusing is the process of melting two or more pieces of glass together until they become one. This is typically done at higher temperatures to create a flat, solid panel. Slumping, on the other hand, is the process of gently heating a piece of glass just enough for it to soften and take the shape of a form beneath it. Many projects involve both techniques. First, you’ll do a full fuse firing to create your design as a flat piece. Then, in a second, lower-temperature firing, you’ll place that fused piece over one of our ceramic or stainless steel molds to create a bowl, plate, or other three-dimensional shape.

The Importance of a Proper Annealing Cycle

Annealing is arguably the most important part of any firing schedule. After the glass reaches its top temperature, it needs to cool down very slowly through a specific temperature range to relieve internal stresses. If you cool it too quickly, the outside of the glass will shrink faster than the inside, creating tension that can cause it to crack—sometimes hours, days, or even weeks later. A proper annealing cycle ensures the entire piece cools at a uniform rate, making it strong and stable. Thankfully, most modern kilns come with pre-set programs that include proper annealing cycles for Bullseye glass, taking the guesswork out of this crucial step.

Getting Started with Bullseye Glass

You’ve chosen your glass, and now the real fun begins. Bringing your artistic vision to life is an incredible feeling, but it’s important to start with a solid foundation. Let’s walk through the essentials you’ll need to set up your workspace, gather your supplies, and build a glass collection that inspires you.

Essential Tips and Safety Guidelines

Before you make your first cut, let’s talk about safety. Working with glass is incredibly rewarding, but it requires respect for the material. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from small shards. When handling and cutting sheets, consider wearing protective gloves to avoid sharp edges. It’s also a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area, especially when your kiln is running. Remember that Bullseye glass is handmade, so each sheet has its own unique character. Treat it with care, keep your workspace clean to avoid scratching the glass, and always handle sheets by their edges. Think of safety as your most important studio tool—it allows you to create with confidence and peace of mind.

Studio Safety: Dust Masks and Ventilation

When you’re working with glass powders and frits, the fine dust can become airborne, and protecting your lungs is non-negotiable. Always wear a NIOSH-approved respirator to avoid inhaling these harmful particles. An elastomeric respirator fitted with P100 cartridges is a great choice for most glass studio applications, as it filters out even the finest dust. Just as important is good ventilation. If you can, set up a local exhaust system near your workspace to pull dust away from you. At a minimum, work in a well-ventilated area with open windows or a fan to keep the air moving. Taking these simple precautions allows you to focus on your creativity without compromising your health.

Food Safety for Fused Glass Projects

A common question is whether fused glass is food-safe, and the answer is: it can be. The key is to create a final piece with a smooth, non-porous surface. Some glass colors, particularly older formulas, may contain materials like lead or cadmium that you wouldn’t want near food. To be safe, always cap your design with a layer of clear, food-safe glass. This seals the decorative elements underneath a durable, inert surface. When you fire the piece, make sure it reaches a full fuse temperature so the surface becomes glossy and completely sealed. This ensures there are no tiny crevices where bacteria can hide, making your beautiful plates and bowls safe for serving.

Caring for Your Finished Artwork

Once your piece is out of the kiln and has cooled, proper care will keep it looking beautiful for years. Always handle your finished artwork carefully, as the edges can still be sharp. For functional items like dishes or trays, hand-washing with mild soap and warm water is the best approach. Avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the glass surface. For decorative pieces, a simple dusting with a soft, dry cloth is usually all that’s needed. When displaying your art, choose a stable spot away from high-traffic areas to prevent accidental bumps or falls. A little gentle maintenance goes a long way in preserving the beauty of your hard work.

Your Supply List and Bullseye Fusing Schedule

Beyond the glass itself, you’ll need a few key items. The heart of any fusing studio is the kiln. Investing in one of our reliable kilns is the first step to melting glass. You’ll also want a good glass cutter and breaking pliers for shaping your pieces. To create forms and textures, you’ll need molds and kiln wash or fiber paper to prevent the glass from sticking.

One of the most critical elements for success is the firing schedule. This is the recipe of temperatures and times your kiln follows to properly fuse, slump, or cast your glass. Bullseye provides excellent resources and suggested firing schedules for their products, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process for you.

How to Build Your First Glass Collection

Building your glass collection is one of the most exciting parts of getting started. With so many colors and styles, it’s easy to feel like a kid in a candy store. My advice? Start simple. You don’t need every color at once. Begin with a basic palette of your favorite transparent and opal colors, maybe a sheet of black and white, and a fun streaky or iridescent sheet to experiment with. This approach lets you learn how different colors interact without overwhelming your budget or your storage space. As you create, you’ll discover which styles you love working with. From there, you can slowly expand your collection of COE90 glass and explore more specialized textures and dichroic options.

Ready to Create with Bullseye Glass

Alright, you’ve got the basics down, and now it’s time for the fun part: making something beautiful. When you’re ready to bring your ideas to life, Bullseye Glass is an incredible medium to work with. There’s something special about knowing each sheet is made by hand and carefully inspected at their factory in Portland, Oregon. This commitment to quality means you can trust you’re getting consistent, top-notch materials for your art. With hundreds of styles to choose from, the hardest part is often deciding where to begin. The vast selection of COE90 glass ensures every piece you buy will fuse together perfectly, taking the guesswork out of your projects so you can focus on creativity. You’ll find the perfect match for whatever you’re dreaming up.

The creative possibilities are practically endless. You can explore a whole rainbow of colors and experiment with different styles like Opalescent, Transparent, and Iridescent sheets. Bullseye also offers unique textures like Reeded and Prismatic that can add incredible depth and dimension to your work. Think about creating a landscape with streaky glass or adding a shimmering finish to jewelry with an iridescent coating. If you’re looking for a little guidance or a curated palette, check out their special glass packs or unique lines like Collage Glass. Once you have your glass picked out, you can start thinking about shaping it with different molds to create everything from simple dishes to intricate sculptures. Of course, the final magic happens in the heat, so having a reliable kiln is essential to fuse your masterpiece. No matter your skill level, Bullseye provides the materials you need to get started and see your vision through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “COE 90” actually mean for my art? Think of COE as a team number. For glass pieces to fuse together successfully in a kiln, they all need to be on the same team. Bullseye glass is all “Team 90,” which means it expands and contracts at the same rate when heated and cooled. This compatibility is what prevents your finished piece from cracking under stress. Sticking with a single COE, like 90, is the simplest way to ensure all your different glass elements will play nicely together.

I thought Bullseye was for fusing. Can I use it for traditional stained glass, too? Absolutely! While Bullseye is celebrated for its fusible quality, it’s also a fantastic material for stained glass projects. It cuts cleanly and the color selection is second to none, allowing you to create truly stunning panels. The fact that it’s fusible is just an added bonus. You can even use the scraps from your stained glass work to create small fused items like jewelry or coasters, which means less waste and more art.

Is Bullseye glass worth the higher price compared to other options? It’s true that Bullseye is a premium material, but that price reflects its reliability. You’re paying for consistency that saves you from unexpected and frustrating results in the kiln. Because every sheet is handmade and rigorously tested, you can trust the colors and compatibility, which means fewer failed projects. When you consider the time and other materials you put into a piece, starting with a dependable glass often saves you money and headaches in the long run.

I’m new to this. What are the essential Bullseye colors to start my collection? It’s so easy to want one of everything, but it’s best to start with a core palette. I always recommend beginning with the basics: a sheet of clear, a solid white, and a solid black. These are the workhorses of any glass studio. From there, add two or three of your favorite transparent colors and maybe one fun, streaky sheet to experiment with. This gives you enough variety to learn how colors layer and interact without breaking the bank.

If all Bullseye glass is COE 90, why do I still need to test for compatibility? This is a smart studio habit. While you can be completely confident that any glass within the Bullseye family will fuse together perfectly, testing becomes important if you introduce another brand, even if it’s also labeled COE 90. Manufacturers can have slight variations. Firing a small test piece with squares of each glass you plan to use confirms they are truly compatible, giving you peace of mind before you create your final masterpiece.