The molten process

Glowing molten glass goo holds the potential for endless creations.

Gathering molten glass from a furnace is an intimidating activity the first time you try. But time after time after time, you get used to it, and eventually that radiant heat becomes a comfortable space.  A safe space where your mind can dream and experiments be hashed out.

The furnace holds a large crucible where the raw material is filled, then heated, then gathered out layer by layer until it’s empty. Each layer is a skillful step of controlling the molten material. It’s hot, so it’s semi-viscous, therefore you’re constantly turning the pipe to the point where it becomes second nature to keep the blob on center. Easier said than done.

The fun part is figuring out new techniques or try new processes. The tools used are basically the same as used in ancient times. Of course you can’t touch the glass, so there are giant medieval-looking metal tongs, tweezers and shears. Wood soaked in water is also a great tool so when the glass grazes the surface, it’s really touching a bed of steam and leaves a smooth surface.

The picture above shows behind the curtain of an early prototype of the Nettles Vase.