How to Make Fused Glass Jewelry in a Microwave
If you are not quite ready to make the big purchase of a full-size kiln, Jen-Ken Kilns has developed a smaller kiln, designed to be used in your microwave oven. It can reach up to 1,650 degrees F and can fuse most items in under 10 minutes. Microwave kilns are affordable and a great choice for those operating their own home-based jewelry business.
Beginner fusing kits come with everything you need to get started. Some even include a starter project. This is a more affordable way to begin fusing glass. To buy these items individually would substantially increase your initial cost.
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Things You'll Need
- Microwave kiln
- Glass cutter
- Dichroic bits and pieces
- Millefiori glass
- Confetti glass
- Fusing glass
- Kiln paper
- Hot mitts
- Glass adhesive
Instructions
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1
Cut your glass pieces ideal to the size needed for your project.
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2
Cut your kiln paper and put on the kiln base.
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3
Layer your glass on the kiln base in the design for your project.
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4
Cover with kiln lid and place inside the microwave.
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5
Heat on high for two minutes. Adjust accordingly depending on wattage of your microwave.
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6
Using hot mitts, check progress of your glass. Continue to heat in increments of 30 seconds until fusing is complete.
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7
Take the kiln out of microwave and allow to cool for 45 minutes keeping the lid on.
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8
Attach jewelry findings appropriate for your project using a glass adhesive and allow to dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Microwaves and kilns fire at varying patterns and intensity. Keep notes to use for later projects.
Low-watt microwaves, fewer than 1000 watts, may require an initial firing time of up to four minutes instead of two minutes.
Recommended fusing times: 1,200 watt microwave--Two minutes; 1,100 watt microwave--two minutes and 30 seconds; 800 watt microwave--four minutes.
Removing glass from kiln before it is completely cooled may crack your glass.
References
Resources
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