Sketching with Glass

glass sketch using frit and powder to make the eye of the tiger

Glass Sketch (not glass art)


Sketching with glass is a technique that involves drawing or sketching on glass using various materials, such as enamel paints, markers, glass powder, frit, and premade materials such as lace, stackers, sliders, and stringers. The process can be complex, requiring a great deal of skill and precision which can be improved upon to make it a finished piece of art. The glass sketch is fused to test colors, reactions, etc. before making a larger piece.


I am studying under Narcissus Quagliata and our latest assignment is to sketch with glass. Our assignments have included making stackers, sliders, lace, and other material for future use in our artwork. This sketch with glass project was to create a sketch using materials without spending more than 45 minutes. In other words, the piece is not intended to be a final piece of art.


My first sketch, my choice, was the eye of the tiger. It involved first painting with enamel paint the black areas on clear glass and fusing it. Secondly, glass powder, fine frit, and 2-bent stringers were added, and the piece was fused again. This rough sketch will need additional work to make it a piece of art. I have 2 more glass sketches to complete the assignment.

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