I enjoyed the process making the draped and handkerchief style art glass using stainless steel molds. So much so that I have started to look at different stainless steel shapes. I do have some of the standard cylinders made and sold specifically for glass fusing.
I know artist have used ordinary mixing bowls. I am not giving up mine. I will be hunting thrift shops for anything suitable. I do have some catering supplies left from a past career and may try some of these shapes out. Usually rounds are the favored mold. I will start there. Last week I found a large cocktail shaker at Bed Bath and Beyond that I need to condition before I can use as a mold. The kiln wash we use on the shelves is diluted and used to coat the metal molds. The problem is that spraying or brushing it on is very difficult to do. It tends to run and not cover well. About 3 or 4 years ago I read about a special high fire spray that was developed. It was used for mold release of industry castings. I never looked into ordering it, because I was not paying about $49 a 12 oz can. Very expensive for the type of work I do. Well this spray has made it to the glass suppliers I use. It is less expensive, and hopefully definitely worth it. I have ordered 2 cans and will be trying it out soon.
The holiday boutique season is almost over. Only about 8 selling days to go and then it is packing up and starting to design new pieces for next year's shows.
