How to Make Fused Glass Beads

Bead making supplies.

Fused glass beads are primarily used in jewelry making and clothing embellishments. Knowledge of proper kiln use and procedures is required to complete this project. Crafters can add glass stringers first to the glass squares to create additional colors and patterns to the fused bead design. Placing the fiber rope across the center of the bead will create an oblong bead shape. To create a diamond shaped bead, place the rope across side glass square corners.

Things You'll Need

• Glasscutter
• Water
• Safety eyewear
• Kiln with a shelf
• Metal tongs
• Fiber rope (the width of the rope will be the same size as the bead hole opening)
• Glass stringer
• Fusible glass
• Scissors
• Frit (ground glass)
• Ruler
• Permanent marker
• Elmer's glue
• Hole boring tool
• Sandpaper

Instructions

1. Measure glass into 2-by-2 inch square pieces. Mark measurements with a permanent marker.

2. Cut measured glass squares with glass cutting tool. Sprinkle water onto the glass before cutting to reduce heat and friction.

3. Cut a piece of the fiber rope 3 inches long. Rub glue onto the rope, and place the rope across the center of a piece of glass and press firmly to secure.

4. Place another glass square on top of the initial rope and press gently to attach.

5. Put a stringer and frit onto the top square for added color and design. Attach the items with glue, and air dry completely for at least 10 minutes.

6. Heat the kiln to 1,550 degrees Fahrenheit. Fuse beads in the kiln for 15 minutes. Reduce kiln heat to 900 degrees and heat glass for 12 minutes. Remove glass beads with tongs before the beads reach room temperature. Handle with care, wear safety glass in case the glass shatters.

7. Sand any rough edges on the beads. Wash the beads in warm, soapy water and air dry. Sprinkle water on the beads and push the boring tool through the hole to clear openings.

8. Repeat kiln process following the same temperatures and times in the prior kilning step.

Resources

• eHow fused glass jewelry making information
• You Tube glass bead making video