I tried a new way to mix my color bar and it blew my mind

I was working on a simple vase in my home studio in Tacoma last Thursday and decided to mix my cobalt blue frit with a bit of silver foil before rolling it into the gather. I thought it would just add a little sparkle, but when I heated it and blew the bubble, the whole piece lit up with this crazy internal shimmer I've never seen before. It wasn't on the surface, it was like the light was coming from inside the glass itself. I've been blowing for about five years and I've never gotten an effect like that from a simple mix. Has anyone else had a surprise like this with unexpected material combos?

2 comments

2 Comments

burns.ryan22d ago

That internal shimmer effect you're describing is actually pretty common with silver foil in my experience. I've had it happen a few times when I've mixed it into transparent colors, especially blues and purples. It's not really coming from inside the glass, it's the foil breaking down into tiny particles that reflect light from all angles. It's a cool look, but for me the surprise wore off once I realized it was a standard reaction.

kelly71422d ago

Try a quick pickle in vinegar before you use it, that can help control the breakdown. I keep a small jar of white vinegar in my studio just for that.