The Process

We are equally captivated by the creativity of the design process, the technical challenge of construction, and the precision of coldworking.  The resulting work depicts a keen attention to detail and original design. 

We collaborate on the design and construction of each piece.  During design, color options and design details are explored through the creation of a series of samples. Pieces are assembled using the strip construction technique which begins with large sheets of thermally compatible opalescent, transparent, and clear glass specifically manufactured for fusing.  The large sheets of glass are cut by hand into long strips, as wide as the body of the piece will be thick (generally 3/8 to ½ inch).  The strips are laid on edge to form the desired pattern along with any additional inclusions that will serve as focal points.   The assembly of loose glass is then heated in the kiln to approximately 1500 degrees to form a solid flat piece.  This can be further formed by another firing at a lower temperature to “slump” the flat glass into a ceramic mold and attain the desired three dimensional shape. 

The final, critical phase in the process (following design and construction) is termed “coldworking”.   This includes work on the final piece as well as the individual inclusion components that may be fused within a piece when it is being construction.   During coldwork a piece can be cut, ground and polished using tools like the diamond saw, wet belt sander, flat disk grinder and sandblaster to achieve the desired texture and shape.  Coldworking greatly enhances the finished appearance and impact of our work.

Strip construction and extensive coldwork are a signature look of Hegland Glass.