Clifton Forge School of the Arts

Tuition: $85. Materials are sold separately. Glass can be purchased in our studio. Prices vary and are based on your project size and glass you choose. Cash or check, accepted and paid to instructor during class.

Ages: 16 to Adult

Prerequisite: Must have taken at least 1 Fused Glass Open Studio or Fused Glass Class

Glass Chemistry: Exploring Reactive Fused Glass

When certain glasses are fired in contact with one another, their chemistries interact to create magical surprises. Unexpected color shifts, bold reactions, and organic effects emerge—often very different from what we might anticipate based on traditional color mixing.

In this exciting and exploratory class, you’ll discover how and why these reactions occur—and how to use them intentionally in your own designs. You’ll also learn which glass combinations to avoid when you don’t want a reaction, giving you greater confidence and control in your future projects.

We’ll demonstrate a variety of reactive pairings and the beautiful, sometimes dramatic results they produce. Students will create:
• Four reaction test coasters, each featuring a different glass combination
• Choose from one of our slumping molds to create one finished, functional piece with a reaction of your choosing.
• Bullseye Glass frit techniques to create a beautiful river rock effect
• French Vanilla paired with Lt Cyan, Egyptian Blue, Turquoise, or Dense White frit
• Petrified Wood combined with Robin’s Egg Blue (a copper-bearing opalescent) — when these two touch, they create a stunning, one-of-a-kind red reaction

With many combinations to choose from, you’ll leave with both finished pieces and a deeper understanding of the fascinating chemistry behind reactive glass.
Perfect for adventurous beginners and experienced fusers alike, this class opens the door to creative possibilities you may have never imagined.

Please wear closed toe shoes for safety.