TIPS for using laser etched dichroic glass - 1/2/2009
Some artists are hesitant to try and use laser etched glass. Mainly because they have tried other types and are not happy with the results. Well I etch and use all CBS glass, Coatings by Sandberg. There are only a handful of Dichroic Glass Manufacturers in the world and CBS continues to be the #1 maker of dichroic glass! If you are buying your glass from a local glass shop or distributor you are most likely buying CBS glass.

CBS recommends that you top coat all of it's dichroic glass with a clear coat of glass. Which I think most artists do anyway. If you are NOT planning to clear coat then please contact me before hand and I will do a test fire to make sure the coating does not flake or splinter. With the sheer volume of glass that CBS manufactures and the process with which they manufacture the glass, mistakes do happen and CBS stands behind their glass 100%. But they still recommend you top coat your work.

Tips for success

When firing Laser etched images.

For black based glass coatings, Use your regular firing schedule but only full fuse at 1450 or 1455 degrees for 1-2 minutes. Since the glass is black it heats up faster than a "colored" glass such as orange or pink.

This firing schedule will help prevent image warping and stretching. Also make sure that your kiln is 100% level, the glass is clean, all glue is completely dry, and the image is as centered on the bottom piece as much as it can be.

For clear based glass coatings fused with a color such as orange or pink, use your regular firing schedule but only full fuse at 1450 or 1455 for 3-4 minutes.

ALL KILNS ARE DIFFERENT. I would suggest you do a test fire to see where you have your greatest success.

When using Laser etched Wallpaper designs.

It is up to you. If you want to design to warp and stretch go ahead and fire to 1465. If you do not want the designs to warp then follow the above guidlines.

Any questions or if you need any help please contact me. I'd be happy to give you more tips!