Yesterday, I took a microwave fusing class from Sylvanye "Sam" Roh, who is quite an artist in her own right. I had bought one of these micro kilns on a whim and totally messed up when I tried it. Even to slightly mar the inside of the kiln by melting glass against it. Doh!
So when I saw the ad for Sam's class, I decided to chance it, and I am so glad I did. It was a blast. Sam
is a delightful and enthusiastic teacher who wants to
share her knowledge. Those are my favorite kind.I have never been comfortable cutting glass, so Sam showed me her system and I felt good about it. She explained about her firing schedule for microwaves and what to do, (which is where I messed up before) And she gave us all kinds of hints, tips and tricks. So not only did I learn a quick and fun little thing to do, but I found someone who is as passionate about teaching well as I am.
So here's my take on microwave fusing. First of all, I wouldn't use the same microwave as the one that you use for cooking food. We discussed it and Sam is concerned about kiln paper particles getting into food.
I think this is really fun, if it's just a once in a while type thing to do for an afternoon. With the microkiln that Sam sells, you can fit up to seven 1" pendants. But I would recommend buying it from someone who really knows how to use them and gives out the full necessary information with the kiln including the safety information. Sam suggests wearing a mask. And be warned, the new kilns have an odor for the first few firings. And although Sam says the glass is annealed at the end of the cycle, if you follow her directions, I'm still a little concerned. I plan to batch anneal my creations after they're done.
So now I'm in business. I'm going to have fun dinking around with this and messing with little designs. I'm still sticking to lampwork, but at least I know how to use this funny little invention and have made a new friend.
That looks like fun, Marcy. I checked out Sam's website. What a bunch of interesting glass stuff they do!
ReplyDeleteOh, and if you ever decide to give up lampworking, you'd better run and hide after announcing it...there will be a huge glass mob coming to get you!! Your sculpting talents paired with your incredible imagination are a priceless combination which must never be denied!
I had one of those - funny little contraption - it made me want a kiln more than I already did. I was all of 20 something my mom bought it for me as a gift. I did love how fast it worked in the kiln it is amazing how it can get that hot and glowing in there.
ReplyDeleteLooks like fun, but I think I'll have to start saving my pennies, nickels and dimes for the kiln. I've always wanted to fuse. I can hardly wait to see your pieces.
ReplyDeleteMarcy - I always appreciate your information and ideas. Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteAs far as the microwave kiln goes, did Sam say whether she uses it for PMC? (firing precious metal clay). I have seen kilns that advertise you can do this but I was wary of it.
Thanks for any info you can provide and I'll see you in your class on the 19th. I'm so excited about it!! Paulette Bennett
Have been wondering about these as well. Nice review. I bought a bunch of stuff last summer so I could play with fusing. Most of it is still in the box and I haven't even looked at it all yet. So sad.
ReplyDeleteI didn't even know you could fuse glass in the microwave. How cool! You always have the best info here, Marcy. I learn something new every time I visit.
ReplyDeleteI was wondering about the shelf paper... You know it catches on fire at around 451 degrees. I'm ashamed to admit, I had been fusing for years before I happen to walk into the shop at the exact moment my kiln started smoking!
ReplyDeleteMarcy, thank you for taking my Microwave Workshop, I enjoyed sharing and plan to be back in Atlanta at the show in May so please stop by.
ReplyDeleteIn respect to the lady who asked the question about firing PMC or Art Clay Silver, yes you can. Marcy also fired a piece and it came out great or maybe she should tell you.
Take care Marcy and I will see you again real soon.
"Sam"
Marcy, thank you for taking my Microwave Workshop, I enjoyed sharing and plan to be back in Atlanta at the show in May so please stop by.
ReplyDeleteIn respect to the lady who asked the question about firing PMC or Art Clay Silver, yes you can. Marcy also fired a piece and it came out great or maybe she should tell you.
Take care Marcy and I will see you again real soon.
"Sam"
It is very difficult to believe that the microwave ovens we use to heat food and bake potatoes can get hot enough to fuse or melt glass. In reality, not only can microwave ovens fuse glass. But i know, most ovens can do it in less than 15 minutes.
ReplyDelete