Reactive What?

Those of you who are fans of Bullseye COE 90 glass have probably heard about or seen the new reactive glass – Reactive Ice Clear and Reactive Cloud Opal. Combine these reactive glasses with certain colors to see some fun . . . well, reactions. For example, Bullseye 0116 frit on the Reactive Ice Clear outlines itself with dark brown lines (the reaction). Bullseye 1116 frit turns chocolate brown on the Reactive Clear Ice. Stop by the studio if you’d like to see samples.

Although these two reactive glasses are new, reactions between certain colors of glass are not. It’s the metal oxides used to create glass colors that can cause reactions. Some colors react, others do not. Some reactions are fun, some are not. For example, French Vanilla reacts nicely with Turquoise Blue to create a brown outline (sort of like the outline you get with the new reactive glasses). Egyptian Blue and Marigold Yellow react to create a dark color that may not be so much fun.

Our advice is to be aware of these reactions, especially when combining different colors. We recommend that you do an artist’s study (or test) piece before you commit to certain colors for a final project.

Bella Says . . .

There’s a great class coming to Bella Glass Studios this September where you can learn a unique crackle technique with internationally-known artist Bob Leatherbarrow. My friend Gilda took his class and the bowls she made are to die for! The class costs $1050 and includes all materials for you to make several gallery-quality bowls and some awesome powder wafers, lunches for the five-day class, and a chance to enjoy Bob’s expertise, sense of humor and Canadian accent. Kidding him aboot his accent is worth a few dollars all by itself. Check our website for more information aboot the class. Give us a call, 303-462-4221, to register while there are still spaces left.

Bella Says . . .

For the best results, cut glass at room temperature. Cutting cold glass can be a real challenge. Ugh.