There are 10 tiles and each tile requires 2 gray, 2 light coral, and 1 piece of crystal clear glass. I'm being extra careful in setting up to cut; I'll need 20 pieces of gray.
Measure twice, cut once: A black sharpie was used to mark 3/4 inch cuts; then to be sure I had the correct width, I placed the pattern on the glass.
I used the grinder on all the cut pieces to knock off irregularities and to even up the edges to match the white base piece of glass. Each piece was thoroughly washed in soapy water and rinsed.
To be absolutely sure no fingerprints are on the glass, each piece is wiped down with alcohol.
All tiles assembled and glued with a glass glue which, by the way, does not hold very well. The tiles are fired upside down to keep the lines of glass straight. The glue was supposed to hold it together when turned over -- it did not. I'll have to speak with my glass guru to see what I'm missing. :D
Stacked up and ready to carry out to the kiln. I can only do two tiles at a time in my kiln.
Yippeeeeeeeee! The lines stayed straight and match up. Matching up was of great concern to me since I have to rebuild the tile upside down and cannot see clearly through the white opaque glass.
The edges will probably be cold worked to even up. We'll see after the last firing when the entire tile is capped with a crystal clear glass. Eight more tiles to go in the first firing. In fact, two are in the kiln right now. We are leaving tomorrow to visit my good friend in Houston. So, it will be next week before the rest of the tiles are done. Then, it is over to the glass shop to use the sandblasting machine. More steps to come but, frankly, do not know how many more since this is a try this and that to see what I like. lol
Happy Thanksgiving to all. If traveling, I pray travel mercies over you for your safe trip going and returning.
Until next time, God bless.
6 comments:
These really do look awesome, Lynn. I am so impressed with your abilities. Leave the easy stuff like knitting and crocheting to the old ladies like me and concentrate on these, since they are truly outstanding! Can't wait to see the finished product.
It's so nice to see the step-by-step process. I know that when the tiles are finished and in place in your new room, you will really appreciate all the labor you've put into them!
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
How do you manage to do all of these things at the same time? Last week you've been knitting and now you're making tiles? Wow, you're wonder woman! Good job Lynn!
Wow. I can't believe the amount of detail involved. It must be a labor of love. BTW I like your new header.
AL, actually I was weaving a couple of weeks ago. But, I drift around from project to project. I get bored easily so have about 3 projects going at the same time. lol
However, this one, the backsplash, has consumed me.
Although, next week I have an appointment with the weaving lady to do two more scarves for Christmas presents. She is going to teach me to warp the loom.
But, time will not be wasted since I have 6 more tiles ready for the kiln. So, I'll put them in, go weave, and come back home. Each firing takes about 16 hours because the glass has to be annealed.
Remember, I am retired. lol There are benefits to growing old in years but not in spirit. Show of hands from those that agree. :D
Your skills are very impressive Lynn, I am totally amazed at the results.
I hope you had a fantastic Thanksgiving and safe travels.
Judy
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