The Process

Drop vessels created in a kiln are unlike blown vessels. Blown vessels are done in a hot shop and are completed in one blowing session, whereas kilnformed vessels require multiple firings and up to a week in the kiln. Up to ten layers of glass are used to create a master blank. These blanks are engineered to create unique patterns on the inside and outside of the vessel. Once the master blank has been completed, it is then slowly heated, and the glass stretches and drops through an elevated form. During this time, the glass is closely monitored visually to watch for depth and thickness. Once fired and cooled, the support rim of glass is cut from the vessel and the edge of the vessel is cold worked and smoothed. A satin finish is achieved by sandblasting and sealing the glass.