{"id":823,"date":"2025-11-07T07:53:06","date_gmt":"2025-11-07T07:53:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/coe-90-fusing-glass-supplies\/"},"modified":"2025-12-30T05:41:13","modified_gmt":"2025-12-30T05:41:13","slug":"coe-90-fusing-glass-supplies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/coe-90-fusing-glass-supplies\/","title":{"rendered":"COE 90 Fusing Glass 101: A Beginner&#8217;s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>There is no greater disappointment for a glass artist than pulling a project from the kiln only to find a crack running through it. This frustrating experience is almost always caused by one simple mistake: mixing incompatible glass. The key to creating strong, stable, and beautiful fused glass is understanding the Coefficient of Expansion, or COE. By committing to one system, like COE 90, you ensure every element in your piece expands and contracts in harmony. This guide is designed to be your ultimate resource for preventing cracks and achieving professional results. We\u2019ll cover the essential coe 90 fusing glass supplies you need, from top brands to specialty materials, so you can build a reliable toolkit for success.<\/p>\n<div data-mega-embed=\"true\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<style>.cta-container{display:flex;justify-content:center;margin:40px 0}.cta-button{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;padding:12px 28px;font-size:16px;font-weight:700;color:#000!important;background-color:#fff!important;border:none!important;border-radius:50px!important;cursor:pointer!important;text-decoration:none!important;transition:all .3s ease-in-out!important;box-shadow:0 0 4px rgba(0,0,0,.15)!important}.cta-button i{margin-right:8px;transition:color .3s ease-in-out!important}.cta-button:hover{color:#2a65c9!important}.cta-button:hover i{color:#2a65c9!important}<\/style>\n<div class=\"cta-container\"><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/ticket-create\"><i>\u2191<\/i> Contact Us<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Strict COE 90 Compatibility is Non-Negotiable<\/strong>: To prevent your project from cracking, every single piece of glass\u2014from the base sheet to the tiniest decorative stringer\u2014must have the same COE 90 rating. Always keep your glass types separate and clearly labeled.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Start with the Essentials, Then Expand<\/strong>: You don&#8217;t need a fully stocked studio from day one. Focus on acquiring core supplies first: a quality glass cutter, safety gear, a reliable kiln, and a few sheets of COE 90 glass. Experiment with affordable scrap packs to find what you love before investing in specialty materials.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Clean Glass and Correct Firing Create a Professional Finish<\/strong>: Your technique is just as important as your materials. Always clean your glass thoroughly to avoid bubbles and cloudiness, and follow a precise firing schedule. The slow cooling (annealing) phase is what gives your final piece its strength and clarity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What is COE 90 Glass and Why Does It Matter for Fusing?<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re getting into glass fusing, you&#8217;ll hear the term &#8220;COE&#8221; thrown around a lot. It stands for &#8220;Coefficient of Expansion,&#8221; which is just a technical way of saying how much a piece of glass expands when it gets hot and shrinks as it cools down. Every type of fusible glass has a COE rating. For your projects, you&#8217;ll mostly be working with COE 90 or COE 96 glass. You don&#8217;t need a degree in physics to understand it\u2014just think of it as a compatibility number. It tells you which pieces of glass can be safely melted together without breaking later. It&#8217;s like a blood type for glass; for a successful fusion, you have to stick with compatible types.<\/p>\n<h3>How COE Compatibility Prevents Cracking<\/h3>\n<p>Here is the most important rule in glass fusing: always use glass with the same COE for every single part of your project. Mixing different COEs is the number one reason fused glass cracks. When you combine incompatible glass, like a piece of COE 90 with a piece of COE 96, they expand and contract at different rates inside the kiln. As your project cools, this mismatch creates a huge amount of stress, and the glass will almost certainly crack. Even a tiny speck of frit or a single stringer with the wrong COE can ruin your entire piece. Sticking to one COE family ensures everything fuses and cools down together, giving you a strong, beautiful final product.<\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/precut-dichroic-glass-circles-rainbow-2-on-clear-glass-coe90\">Your Essential COE 90 Fusing Supply Checklist<\/a><\/h2>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve committed to working with COE 90 glass, it\u2019s time for the fun part: stocking your studio. Building your supply collection is an exciting process, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. To help you get started, I\u2019ve put together a checklist of the essential supplies you\u2019ll want to have on hand for your fusing projects. Think of this as your go-to guide for creating a well-rounded palette of materials that will let your creativity shine. From the foundational sheets that form the base of your work to the tiniest decorative details that make a piece uniquely yours, having these items ready will ensure you can bring any idea to life without a last-minute scramble for materials.<\/p>\n<p>This isn&#8217;t about buying everything at once, but about understanding the core components that will form the backbone of your art. We&#8217;ll cover the absolute must-haves and some fun extras that can add that special touch to your pieces, making sure your studio is prepared for whatever inspiration strikes. Having a good mix of these supplies means you can experiment freely, layering colors and textures to see what works. It\u2019s how you develop your unique style. So, let\u2019s walk through the key items you\u2019ll want to consider adding to your shopping list.<\/p>\n<h3>Glass Sheets and Clear Bases<\/h3>\n<p>Glass sheets are the foundation of nearly every fusing project. You\u2019ll want to start with a good supply of clear glass, which often serves as the base or cap for your designs, as well as a variety of colors. COE 90 glass comes in a stunning rainbow of transparents, opals, and streaky mixes, giving you an incredible palette to work with. Whether you&#8217;re layering colors to create depth or cutting intricate shapes for a mosaic-style piece, having a selection of sheet glass on hand is non-negotiable. It\u2019s the canvas for your creativity, so don\u2019t be afraid to experiment with different hues and textures to see what inspires you.<\/p>\n<h3>Dichroic Glass for Stunning Effects<\/h3>\n<p>If you want to add a serious &#8220;wow&#8221; factor to your work, you need to get your hands on some dichroic glass. This material is coated with micro-layers of metals, which gives it a shimmering, color-shifting surface that looks almost magical. Depending on the angle you view it from, the glass can appear to be multiple colors at once. A small piece of COE 90 dichroic glass can turn a simple pendant into a showstopper or add a brilliant focal point to a larger art piece. It\u2019s available in various patterns and on either black or clear glass, giving you plenty of options for creating dazzling effects.<\/p>\n<h3>Frit and Powder for Added Texture<\/h3>\n<p>Think of frit as crushed glass, sorted into different grain sizes that you can use to add color, shading, and texture. It ranges from a fine powder, which is perfect for creating soft, watercolor-like effects, to coarse chunks that produce a bolder, more textured look. You can sprinkle COE 90 frit over your base glass to create a speckled pattern, layer different colors for a gradient effect, or even fill a mold with it to cast a solid object. It\u2019s an incredibly versatile material that opens up a world of design possibilities beyond what you can achieve with sheet glass alone.<\/p>\n<h3>Stringers and Cane for Fine Details<\/h3>\n<p>When you need to add crisp lines or delicate details to your work, stringers and cane are your best friends. Stringers are thin, spaghetti-like strands of glass, while cane refers to slightly thicker rods. You can use them to &#8220;draw&#8221; directly onto your glass, create outlines, or add fine patterns that would be impossible to cut from a sheet. They can be laid straight for geometric designs or gently bent over a candle flame to create organic curves. Having a collection of COE 90 stringers in various colors allows you to add a level of precision and intricacy that truly makes your artwork stand out.<\/p>\n<h3>Casting Billets for Sculptural Pieces<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re ready to move beyond flat panels and explore three-dimensional glass art, casting billets are the way to go. These are thick, solid blocks of glass designed to be melted down in a kiln to fill a mold. This process, known as kiln casting, allows you to create  sculptural objects, thick bowls, or intricate forms that have real weight and presence. Working with Bullseye glass billets requires a bit more technical know-how, particularly with firing schedules, but it\u2019s a fantastic way to push your artistic boundaries. It\u2019s the perfect supply for when you\u2019re ready to create substantial, gallery-worthy pieces right in your own studio.<\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Top COE 90 Glass Brands?<\/h2>\n<p>When you start working with fusible glass, you\u2019ll quickly notice a few brand names that pop up again and again. While all COE 90 glass is designed to be compatible, each manufacturer brings something unique to the table. Some are known for their incredible color palettes, while others specialize in dazzling surface coatings or budget-friendly options. Getting to know the top brands helps you find the perfect materials for your artistic vision.<\/p>\n<h3>Bullseye Glass<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019ve spent any time in the fusing world, you\u2019ve likely heard of Bullseye Glass. They are true pioneers in the industry, celebrated for their massive and consistent range of colors. For many artists, Bullseye is the go-to choice because of its reliability and the sheer variety it offers, from transparent and opalescent sheets to delicate stringers and frits. Their commitment to quality control means you can trust that their glass will behave predictably in the kiln, making them a solid and beautiful foundation for your work.<\/p>\n<h3>Coatings By Sandberg (CBS)<\/h3>\n<p>Coatings By Sandberg, or CBS, is where you turn for that extra sparkle and shine. They are famous for their high-quality dichroic glass, which features a special metallic coating that shimmers with iridescent color. This coating reflects different colors depending on the angle of light, adding a dynamic and captivating quality to any project. CBS offers a fantastic variety of colors and textures on clear and black glass bases. If you want to create jewelry or accent pieces that truly stand out, incorporating CBS dichroic glass is a surefire way to make your work pop.<\/p>\n<h3>Uroboros Glass<\/h3>\n<p>Uroboros Glass has a long-standing reputation for producing artistic and innovative glass types. Known for their vibrant colors and unique patterns, their glass is a fantastic choice for adding texture and visual interest to your fusing projects. Uroboros was a key player in the art glass world for years, and though they were acquired by Bullseye Glass, their legacy of distinctive styles continues. Their fusible glass line was developed to be fully compatible with other COE 90 brands, and many artists still seek out their classic textures for one-of-a-kind pieces.<\/p>\n<h3>Wissmach Glass<\/h3>\n<p>For artists looking for quality materials that are also economical, Wissmach Glass is an excellent option. They offer a great variety of colors and styles in the COE 90 category, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced artists working on large-scale projects. Wissmach provides reliable, fusible glass without the premium price tag, allowing you to experiment more freely. Their glass is fully compatible with other COE 90 brands, so you can easily integrate their sheets into your existing supply. It\u2019s a practical and affordable way to build your glass palette.<\/p>\n<h2>What&#8217;s the Cost of COE 90 Fusing Supplies?<\/h2>\n<p>One of the first questions artists ask when starting a new medium is, &#8220;What&#8217;s the budget?&#8221; When it comes to glass fusing, the costs can range from very affordable to a significant investment, depending on the scale and complexity of your projects. The price of your supplies is influenced by factors like the brand, size, color, and type of glass you choose. A simple, clear base sheet will cost much less than a large, intricate sheet of dichroic glass.<\/p>\n<p>Think of it like stocking a pantry. You\u2019ll have your basic staples, like clear and solid-colored glass sheets, which form the foundation of your work. Then you\u2019ll have your specialty ingredients\u2014dichroic glass, vibrant frits, and detailed stringers\u2014that you use to add flair and personality. You can start with a modest collection and gradually build your inventory as you discover which materials you love working with most. Understanding the price points for different types of COE 90 glass will help you plan your projects and purchase supplies wisely, ensuring you have everything you need without overspending.<\/p>\n<h3>Pricing for Glass Sheets<\/h3>\n<p>The foundation of most fusing projects is the glass sheet, and its price depends on size, thickness, and type. For a general idea, a large 24 x 48-inch sheet of 3mm Tekta Clear fusible glass can run around $85. This might seem like a lot, but a sheet this size can be cut down for dozens of smaller projects. If you&#8217;re working with frit, which adds texture and color, a five-pound jar of clear fine frit might cost about $70. These basic materials are your workhorses, so it\u2019s often more economical to buy them in larger quantities if you have the space and plan to fuse regularly.<\/p>\n<h3>Costs for Specialty and Dichroic Glass<\/h3>\n<p>This is where you can really add some magic to your work. Specialty glass, especially CBS dichroic glass, is prized for its stunning, color-shifting properties. Because of the complex manufacturing process, it costs more than standard glass. You can find dichroic scrap for around $40-$45 per half-pound, which is a great way to get a variety of patterns without buying full sheets. Smaller quantities of specialty materials, like an ounce of rainbow dichroic frit flakes, might be priced around $23. While it&#8217;s an investment, a little bit of dichroic glass goes a long way in making a piece truly stand out.<\/p>\n<h3>Budget-Friendly Options for Getting Started<\/h3>\n<p>You don&#8217;t need to spend a fortune to start fusing. One of the best ways to save money is to buy larger sheets of glass and learn to cut them down yourself. A 12 x 12-inch sheet can yield many smaller pieces for jewelry or decorative tiles. Another fantastic option for beginners is to purchase scrap glass. Many suppliers offer packs of assorted scrap at a great price, giving you a wide range of colors and textures to experiment with. This lets you practice your cutting and fusing techniques without the pressure of using expensive, full-sized sheets. It\u2019s the perfect way to play and discover your style.<\/p>\n<h2>Where Can You Find the Best Deals on COE 90 Supplies?<\/h2>\n<p>Finding high-quality supplies that fit your budget is key to keeping your creative practice going. Let\u2019s be honest, glass art isn\u2019t the cheapest hobby, but with a little strategy, you can stock your studio without breaking the bank. The best approach combines exploring a reliable supplier&#8217;s full collection, watching for sales, and using smart purchasing strategies like buying sample packs to get the most value. This way, you can spend less time worrying about costs and more time in the studio making beautiful things.<\/p>\n<h3>Exploring the ArtGlassSupplies.com Collection<\/h3>\n<p>A great first step is to get familiar with a comprehensive supplier. When you have a go-to source, you can easily compare prices and find everything you need in one place. Our collection of COE 90 glass is curated to help you get started with confidence, whether you&#8217;re buying your first sheet or adding to a massive studio inventory. You can find everything from basic clear and colored sheets to specialty items like dichroic glass, frit, and stringers. Having a deep understanding of what\u2019s available helps you plan your projects and your budget more effectively.<\/p>\n<h3>Keeping an Eye Out for Sales and Promotions<\/h3>\n<p>One of the easiest ways to save money is to buy your supplies when they&#8217;re on sale. Make sure you\u2019re signed up for email newsletters from your favorite suppliers and follow them on social media. This is usually the first place you&#8217;ll hear about promotions, new product arrivals, and clearance events. Planning your purchases around seasonal sales can also lead to big savings. If you know you\u2019ll need a lot of clear base glass or black fusible glass for upcoming projects, stocking up during a sale is a smart move that will save you money in the long run.<\/p>\n<h3>Trying Sample Packs to Start<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re just beginning your fusing journey or simply want to experiment with new colors and textures, sample packs are your best friend. These packs offer a curated variety of glass at a much lower cost than buying each sheet individually. It\u2019s a fantastic way to build your color palette and test how different types of glass work together without committing to large, expensive sheets. For those who prioritize budget and don&#8217;t mind cutting their own pieces, buying packs with larger sheets of glass that you can cut down yourself offers incredible value and creative freedom.<\/p>\n<h2>Choosing the Right Tools for COE 90 Glass<\/h2>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve selected your beautiful sheets of COE 90 glass, the next step is gathering the right tools to bring your vision to life. Having the proper equipment is just as important as the glass itself. The right tools not only make the fusing process safer and more enjoyable but also ensure your finished pieces look polished and professional. Let&#8217;s walk through the essential tools you\u2019ll need to set up your workspace for success.<\/p>\n<h3>Kilns and Firing Schedules<\/h3>\n<p>Your kiln is the heart of your glass fusing studio. It\u2019s where the transformation happens, melting separate pieces of glass into a single, cohesive design. When choosing from the available kilns, look for one that offers precise temperature control, as this is key to a successful firing. Following a proper firing schedule is crucial. This schedule dictates how quickly the kiln heats up, holds at specific temperatures, and cools down. The final stage, annealing, is especially important for COE 90 glass. This slow cooling process, typically around 900\u00b0F, stabilizes the glass, relieves internal stress, and gives your final piece the strength it needs to last.<\/p>\n<h3>Molds for Slumping and Draping<\/h3>\n<p>If you want to create three-dimensional pieces like bowls, plates, or decorative sculptures, you\u2019ll need molds. After you\u2019ve fused your glass design flat, you can place it on top of or inside a mold for a second firing. This is where slumping and draping come in. Slumping involves letting the glass sink into a concave mold, while draping is when you shape the glass over a convex form. There are countless molds available in various shapes and sizes, from simple circles and squares to more intricate, artistic forms. Using molds opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities beyond flat panels.<\/p>\n<h3>Essential Cutting and Shaping Tools<\/h3>\n<p>Before your glass ever enters the kiln, you\u2019ll need a few hand tools to cut and refine your pieces. First and foremost, prioritize safety with a good pair of safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves. The most fundamental tool is a quality glass cutter for scoring clean lines. From there, you\u2019ll use running or breaking pliers to snap the glass along the score line. For more detailed shaping and nibbling away small bits of glass, grozer pliers are indispensable. You\u2019ll also need kiln shelf paper or a good kiln wash to prevent your projects from sticking to the kiln shelf during firing. These basic tools are the foundation for creating precise and intricate designs.<\/p>\n<h2>Key Safety Tips for Fusing COE 90 Glass<\/h2>\n<p>Working with glass is an incredibly rewarding process, but it\u2019s important to remember that you\u2019re dealing with sharp materials and high heat. Setting up a safe workspace and developing good habits from the start will allow you to focus on your creativity without worry. Think of these tips not as rules, but as the foundation for a long and happy relationship with glass art. Before you begin your next project, take a moment to review these essential safety practices for cutting, handling, and firing your COE 90 glass. A safe studio is a productive studio, and these simple steps will help protect you, your tools, and your beautiful creations.<\/p>\n<h3>Must-Have Protective Gear<\/h3>\n<p>First things first, let&#8217;s talk about your personal protective equipment (PPE). Always wear safety glasses. This is non-negotiable. Tiny, sharp shards of glass can fly off when you&#8217;re cutting or breaking pieces, and protecting your eyes is essential. When you\u2019re working with the kiln, heat-resistant gloves are a must for handling hot materials or shelves. If you\u2019re using glass powders or kiln wash, wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling fine particles. It\u2019s also crucial to work in a well-ventilated area to ensure fresh air is circulating, especially when your kiln is firing and venting fumes.<\/p>\n<h3>Safe Glass Cutting and Handling<\/h3>\n<p>Once you have your gear on, you can focus on handling the glass itself. Always keep your work surface clean and clear of stray shards and dust. When you cut glass, use a quality glass cutter and apply firm, even pressure to score the surface. Use running pliers or your hands to create a clean break along the score line, always breaking the glass away from your body. Be mindful of sharp edges after cutting. You can use a grinder or a rubbing stone to smooth them slightly, which makes the pieces safer to handle as you assemble your project.<\/p>\n<h3>Kiln Safety Best Practices<\/h3>\n<p>Your kiln is the heart of your studio, and it demands respect. Place your kiln on a non-combustible surface in a well-ventilated space, with plenty of clearance from any flammable materials. When you\u2019re ready to fire, make sure your glass is properly placed on a prepared shelf. Never leave your kiln unattended while it\u2019s operating, and keep pets and children away from the area. Use heat-resistant Kevlar gloves when loading or checking on a hot kiln. Peeking inside? Tinted safety glasses will protect your eyes from the intense infrared radiation. Following these best practices ensures every firing is a safe one.<\/p>\n<h2>Common COE 90 Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n<p>Working with fusible glass is an incredibly rewarding process, but a few common slip-ups can lead to disappointing results. The good news is that these mistakes are easy to avoid once you know what to look for. Paying attention to your glass compatibility, firing schedule, and preparation will help ensure your projects turn out beautifully every time, saving you from the frustration of a cracked or cloudy piece.<\/p>\n<h3>Mixing Incompatible Glass Types<\/h3>\n<p>This is the number one rule in glass fusing: always use glass with the same COE for every part of your project. Mixing COE 90 glass with another type, like COE 96, is the most frequent mistake beginners make, and it almost always ends in heartbreak. Different COEs expand and contract at different rates when heated and cooled. When fused together, this incompatibility creates stress within the glass, causing it to crack as it cools. To prevent this, keep your glass scraps and sheets well-organized and clearly labeled by COE. When in doubt, leave it out.<\/p>\n<h3>Using Incorrect Firing Schedules<\/h3>\n<p>Your kiln is where the magic happens, but using the right firing schedule is critical. A firing schedule is more than just the top temperature; it\u2019s a detailed recipe that controls how quickly the kiln heats up, how long it holds at specific temperatures, and\u2014most importantly\u2014how slowly it cools down. This controlled cooling, or annealing, is what makes the glass strong and stable. Rushing the process or using a schedule not designed for your specific project can lead to thermal shock and breakage. If you&#8217;re just starting, always follow the recommended firing schedules from the glass manufacturer or a trusted source for your kiln.<\/p>\n<h3>Forgetting to Clean Your Glass<\/h3>\n<p>A pristine finished piece starts with perfectly clean glass. Dust, fingerprints, and oils from your skin or a glass cutter can cause issues during firing, leading to unwanted bubbles or a cloudy surface called devitrification. Before you assemble your project, give every piece of glass a thorough cleaning. A simple wipe-down with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth is usually all you need. This small step makes a huge difference in the clarity and professional finish of your work. It&#8217;s also a good habit to ensure your molds are clean and properly prepared before use.<\/p>\n<h2>How to Store and Handle Your COE 90 Glass<\/h2>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve invested in beautiful COE 90 glass, the last thing you want is for it to get chipped, scratched, or mixed up. Proper storage and handling are just as important as your fusing technique. Taking a little time to set up your studio space correctly not only protects your materials but also keeps you safe. Think of it as part of the creative process\u2014a well-organized space leads to a clear mind and better art. From labeling your sheets to wearing the right gear, these simple habits will help you keep your glass in perfect condition and prevent accidents, ensuring your projects turn out exactly as you envision them.<\/p>\n<h3>Storing Glass to Prevent Damage<\/h3>\n<p>Keeping your glass organized is the best way to prevent damage. Scratches and chips can ruin a piece before you even start. The ideal way to store glass sheets is vertically in a sturdy rack or bin with dividers. This prevents the weight of the glass from causing stress fractures. If you must stack your glass horizontally, make sure to place a soft material like paper or thin foam between each sheet to avoid scratches. For smaller scraps, clear plastic bins are a great option. Just be careful not to overfill them, as the weight can cause the pieces at the bottom to break.<\/p>\n<h3>Organizing and Labeling Your Supplies<\/h3>\n<p>Here\u2019s the golden rule of glass fusing: always match your COE. Mixing COE 90 glass with another type, like COE 96, will cause your finished piece to crack as it cools. To avoid this heartbreaking mistake, make labeling a non-negotiable habit. Use a permanent marker or stickers to clearly mark the COE on every single piece of glass in your studio, even the smallest scraps. Organizing your glass by COE is the first step, but you can also sort it by color, type (transparent, opaque, dichroic), or size. This system will save you time and prevent costly errors down the road.<\/p>\n<h3>Safe Handling and Transport Tips<\/h3>\n<p>Working with glass requires your full attention and the right safety gear. Always wear safety glasses when cutting or breaking glass. Tiny, sharp shards can fly off, and protecting your eyes is crucial. When handling sheets with sharp edges, wear cut-resistant gloves to protect your hands. When it\u2019s time to work with your kiln, switch to heat-resistant gloves to protect yourself from extreme temperatures. If you\u2019re working with glass powders or frit, a dust mask is essential to avoid inhaling fine particles. Finally, always work in a well-ventilated area to keep your workspace safe and comfortable.<\/p>\n<h2>Start Your First COE 90 Fusing Project<\/h2>\n<p>Ready to move from theory to practice? Getting started with glass fusing is incredibly rewarding, and your first project is closer than you think. With a few key supplies and a solid plan, you can create a beautiful piece of fused glass art. This section will walk you through the fundamental techniques, give you some simple project ideas to try, and outline the essential supplies you\u2019ll need in your studio. Let\u2019s get that kiln fired up!<\/p>\n<h3>Basic Techniques for Beginners<\/h3>\n<p>The golden rule of glass fusing is simple but non-negotiable: only use glass with the same COE in a single project. For us, that means sticking exclusively to COE 90 glass. Mixing COEs will cause your piece to crack from stress as it cools because the different glasses shrink at different rates. Once you\u2019ve got your compatible glass, the process is straightforward. You\u2019ll cut your glass pieces, clean them thoroughly with a lint-free cloth and alcohol, and arrange them on a kiln-washed shelf. Then, you place your creation in the kiln and fire it according to a specific schedule. It\u2019s a process that rewards patience and precision.<\/p>\n<h3>Simple Project Ideas and Firing Schedules<\/h3>\n<p>Your first project doesn&#8217;t have to be a masterpiece. Start with something small and fun, like a set of coasters, a colorful suncatcher, or a few jewelry pendants. These projects let you play with color and shape without a huge commitment. A &#8220;firing schedule&#8221; is just the recipe of temperatures and times your kiln follows to melt the glass correctly. For a simple &#8220;tack fuse,&#8221; where the glass layers stick together but keep their dimension, a schedule might look like this: heat at 300\u00b0F per hour to 1000\u00b0F, then heat at 300\u00b0F per hour to 1385\u00b0F and hold for 10 minutes, then cool as fast as possible to 900\u00b0F and hold for 30 minutes. Always consult your kiln\u2019s manual for specific guidelines.<\/p>\n<h3>Your Starter Kit Supply List<\/h3>\n<p>You don\u2019t need a studio full of tools to start, but a few items are essential. First, your safety gear: always wear safety glasses when cutting or handling glass and have heat-resistant gloves for loading and unloading the kiln. Next, you\u2019ll need your core supplies: a selection of COE 90 glass sheets, a quality glass cutter, and running pliers to break your scores cleanly. You\u2019ll also need kiln wash to prepare your kiln shelves and, of course, a kiln to do the firing. As you get more comfortable, you can add things like molds for slumping and draping, but this basic kit will get your first project from an idea to a finished piece.<\/p>\n<h2>Related Articles<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/pop-art-frit-blend-coarse-grain-coe90\">Pop Art Frit Blend Coarse Grain COE90 &#8211; COE90 Frit Blends<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/gold-purple-opalescent-frit-balls-coe90\">Gold Purple Opalescent Frit Balls COE90 &#8211; COE90 Frit Balls<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/precut-dichroic-glass-circles-rainbow-2-on-clear-glass-coe90\">Precut Dichroic Glass Circles Rainbow 2 on Clear Glass COE90 &#8211; COE90 Glass<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/white-opalescent-frit-balls-coe90\">White Opalescent Frit Balls COE90 &#8211; COE90 Frit Balls<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/holey-tears-kiln-casting-mold\">Holey Tears Kiln Casting Mold | Art Glass Supplies &#8211; Casting Molds<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div data-mega-embed=\"true\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<style>.cta-container{display:flex;justify-content:center;margin:40px 0}.cta-button{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;padding:12px 28px;font-size:16px;font-weight:700;color:#000!important;background-color:#fff!important;border:none!important;border-radius:50px!important;cursor:pointer!important;text-decoration:none!important;transition:all .3s ease-in-out!important;box-shadow:0 0 4px rgba(0,0,0,.15)!important}.cta-button i{margin-right:8px;transition:color .3s ease-in-out!important}.cta-button:hover{color:#2a65c9!important}.cta-button:hover i{color:#2a65c9!important}<\/style>\n<div class=\"cta-container\"><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/ticket-create\"><i>\u2191<\/i> Contact Us<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>I have some old glass scraps, but I&#8217;m not sure what COE they are. Can I test them?<\/strong> While there are technical tests for glass compatibility, they aren&#8217;t very practical for a home studio and can be unreliable. The safest and most stress-free approach is to only use glass that is clearly labeled with its COE. Mixing unknown glass into your project is a huge gamble that almost always results in cracking. It&#8217;s better to set those mystery pieces aside for a mosaic project and build your fusing collection with glass you can trust.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What&#8217;s the real difference between a &#8216;tack fuse&#8217; and a &#8216;full fuse&#8217;?<\/strong> Think of it in terms of how much you want the glass to melt together. A &#8220;full fuse&#8221; happens at a higher temperature, causing the separate pieces of glass to flow into one another and form a single, smooth, flat piece. A &#8220;tack fuse&#8221; uses a lower temperature, so the pieces of glass just stick together securely but keep their original shape and dimension. This is great if you want to create a piece with more texture and visible layers.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do I really need to clean my glass before firing? It looks clean to me.<\/strong> Yes, absolutely! Even if you can&#8217;t see it, your glass has invisible oils from your fingerprints, dust, or residue from your cutting tool. When the kiln heats up, these contaminants can burn off and leave a hazy, cloudy film on your glass called devitrification, or they can trap tiny bubbles. Taking a moment to wipe every piece with isopropyl alcohol is a simple habit that makes a huge difference in achieving a professional, crystal-clear finish.<\/p>\n<p><strong>I&#8217;m on a tight budget. What are the absolute must-have supplies to make my first piece?<\/strong> You don&#8217;t need to buy out the store to get started. Focus on the true essentials: a pair of safety glasses, a quality glass cutter, and running pliers for breaking the glass. For materials, grab a few sheets of COE 90 glass\u2014a variety scrap pack is a great way to get multiple colors\u2014and some kiln wash for your shelf. The final piece of the puzzle is a kiln, which is the biggest investment, but these core tools will get you cutting and creating.<\/p>\n<p><strong>My kiln is in my garage. Is that a safe place for it?<\/strong> A garage can be a perfect spot for a kiln, as long as you follow a few key safety rules. Your kiln needs to sit on a non-combustible surface, like a concrete floor or a specialized metal stand. It also requires plenty of clear space, with at least 18 inches of clearance from any walls or flammable items. Most importantly, the area must have good ventilation to allow any fumes to escape during firing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn what makes COE 90 fusing glass essential for your art. Get a complete supply list, brand guide, and tips to avoid cracks. Start your project today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":822,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-823","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-glass-fusing"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/823","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=823"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/823\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1210,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/823\/revisions\/1210"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/822"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=823"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=823"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.artglasssupplies.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=823"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}