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Microwave Kilns & Fusing for Beginners - Upcycle Your Scrap Glass
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items Are you considering glass fusing but don't have access to a kiln? I've got you covered! My go-to list of tools, materials, and resources for upcycling stained glass scraps into fused glass treasures! I provided sources for the tools I own and use, plus some recommended by other glass artists. This is a beginner-friendly set of recommendations, requiring minimal expense - you can get started for under $50! Created for the beginner or casual crafter.
Sections
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Glass and glass shaping tools you may want
Microwave Kilns and accessories
Turn your fused glass in to jewelry, keychains or magnets
Glass and glass shaping tools you may want
A quick beginner friendly guide to fusing scrap glass in your microwave!
Fusing Glass in a Microwave Kiln
If you want to have precise shapes, you'll need some tools. This kit has more than you "need" and should be okay. It's not great but do you "need" great? It's your call! Affiliate Link
Glass Tools Set
If you plan to cut a lot of glass, you'll want a glass cutter that works for you, not against you. They come in various styles, this just happens to be mine! Is it more than the casual user needs? Yes. Do I love it? Yes! Affiliate Link
Toyo Pistol Grip Glass Cutter
Need stained glass scraps? I've got you covered. I have 2# boxes of mix COE glass but I can make a box of 96 COE if you need it. Scrap glass is great for loads of arts and crafts! I also sell 8oz packages of faux sea glass.
2# Stained Glass Pieces
Nice to have. The plastic tips wear out but are easy to replace. There are fancy models available and the price is a lot higher but the casual craft will be fine with a set like these. Again, you don't NEED these but they are nice to have, especially...
Running Pliers and Breaker Grozer Pliers
Hands down, these are my favorite work gloves. If you have any concerns about cutting your self, I really recommend these gloves. I have several pair and they are work horses! Affiliate Link
DEX FIT Level 5 Cut Resistant Gloves
Faux sea glass for vase filler, potted plant mulch or arts and crafts for those how can't (or don't want to) make their own. I offer 8z oz packages. Glass scraps in 2# also available.
Faux Sea Glass
If you want to sign your work or add details, you'll need glass paint. This brand is highly recommended. Available in pen, pots, tubs and several colors -You're sure to find the perfect combination. Affiliate Link
Paint Marker
Microwave Kilns and accessories
We started with this kiln. It has a smaller interior than the large kiln, heats up faster and cools quicker. This is a great option if you plan to keep your fused glass pieces under 2" - 2.5". I've been using this one for close to 18 months and it's ...
Small microwave kiln
This larger kiln has an interior of about 4". I've been able to fused finished items of close to 3.5". Because it's larger, it does take longer to fuse and cools slower. I've also had this one for about 18 months with no problems. Be careful thoug...
Large Microwave Kiln
The kiln papers keep your molten glass from sticking to your kiln base. I use this on both sizes. I flip the base of the small one (not recommended for sure!) but you can trim them to fit, too! One side is more textured than the other. If you plan...
Microwave Kiln Papers
Not required, technically, but very nice to have! They add space between the microwave plat and kiln base, and can reduce heat stress on the plate. I'm glad I have them - I worry less now! Affiliate Link
1/2" Tall x 1" Wide Kiln Post - 4 Pack
If you don't have any glass, you might consider this option. There is a nice selection of glass and a few tools included. I would strongly recommend upgrading the gloves, though. If you have silicon oven mitts, those are great! Affiliate Link
Microwave Kiln Kit
You can fuse wire loops directly into your glass but you'll need to have high temp )(Nichrome) wire. Traditional wire won't hold up well in the extreme kiln heat. This set comes with a handy plastic container. I've had great results with them! Af...
Nichrome Wire Jump Rings
Heat resistant, grippy and easy to wash - perfect for moving that hot kiln out of the microwave. Affiliate Link
Silicone Oven Mitts
Is it sexy? No. Does it work? Yes. And, I found mine in the garage for free. You will nee some thing heat proof to cool your kiln on and this does that just fine. Don't skip this. You'll melt, crack, or scar your countertop and be really mad. Tr...
Concrete Block
Turn your fused glass in to jewelry, keychains or magnets
Perfect for adding magnets or jewelry findings to the back of your fused glass pieces. Remember, glass blob make great magnets. I like the big tube but "single serve" sizes are available and are nice if you wont need much or have group projects! A...
E6000 Adhesive
If you plan to make jewelry from you scrap glass, you need some extra tools. This kit has multiple sizes of jump rings, and a goof selection of tools. The jump ring tool saved my finger tips! Affiliate Link
Jump Rings and Jewelry Pliers
Add a bail to the back of your new fused glass masterpiece for a quick pendant or key chain. Use e6000 and a wooden craft stick, tooth pick or nail art tool for precise application. Not too much or it will ooze everywhere. Affiliate Link
Glue on Bail
Harbor Freight has these tiny magnets that are perfect for adding to the back of your fused glass blobs. A set of 10 in a sturdy plastic tube with a child proof lid. I can tell you how many sets I've bought but I keep coming back to this brand. Affil...
Rare Earth Magnets
These are nice when you know you wont use a large tube or if you have a large group when sharing can be a challenge. The additional tools are a nice step up from wooden craft sticks and tooth picks! Affiliate Link
E6000 8-Pack 0.18 Ounce Bottles with tools
Craft stick are a perfectly acceptable glue spreaders! Inexpensive, no clean up, readily available. I can use the same stick for multiple projects, too. Affiliate Link
Craft Sticks
Toothpick. You probably already have them in your kitchen, might as well use them! Perfect for precise glue application on those tiny pieces. Affiliate Link
Toothpicks