Frequently Asked Questions

What are pre-cut fused glass shapes?

Our pre-cut fused glass shapes are ready-to-use pieces of compatible glass, precision cut into a wide range of shapes, sizes and designs. They’re ideal for fused glass artists, crafters, makers and students who want to create their own designs without having to cut every element by hand.

What can I make with pre-cut fused glass shapes?

Our shapes can be used in a variety of fused glass projects, including dishes, coasters, decorations, jewellery, wall art, suncatchers and other kiln-formed glass creations. They can be combined with other compatible glass to create your own unique designs.

Are your glass shapes compatible for fusing?

Our shapes are made from compatible glass suitable for kiln fusing. However, compatibility can depend on the specific glass type, COE and firing schedule. We recommend checking the product information and ensuring that any additional glass you use is compatible.

Do I need to cut the shapes myself?

No. Our shapes arrive pre-cut and ready to incorporate into your project. This makes them particularly useful for adding detailed designs, motifs and decorative elements without the need for specialist glass-cutting equipment.

Can I combine different shapes and colours?

Yes. Combining different shapes, sizes and colours is one of the great things about working with pre-cut glass. You can layer and arrange pieces to create your own patterns and designs.

Are the shapes suitable for beginners?

Yes. Pre-cut shapes can be a great starting point for anyone learning fused glass. They allow you to concentrate on arranging and designing your project while avoiding some of the more challenging aspects of cutting glass.

Can I use your shapes with glass I already have?

You can, provided the glass is compatible for fusing. Always check the compatibility of different glass types before combining them in a kiln.

What sizes are the shapes?

Sizes vary depending on the individual shape. Each product listing includes the relevant dimensions so you can plan your project accurately.

Will every shape be exactly the same?

We aim for consistent, accurate shapes, but because glass is a handmade material and pieces are individually processed, there may be very small variations. These do not affect the character or usability of the shapes.

Can I order shapes in specific colours?

Our available colours depend on the glass ranges we stock. Please check the individual product listings for current colour options. If you are looking for a particular colour or combination, get in touch and we’ll be happy to discuss your requirements.

How should I store my glass shapes?

Keep your shapes somewhere clean, dry and protected from knocks or pressure. Store them carefully to prevent chipping or breakage, particularly if they have fine or delicate details.

How should I handle the shapes?

Glass should always be handled carefully. We recommend using appropriate protective equipment when handling, cutting or working with glass, and keeping pieces away from children unless supervised.

What firing schedule should I use?

Firing schedules can vary depending on the glass being used, the thickness of your project, the kiln and the desired result. We recommend following the manufacturer's guidance for your particular glass and using a suitable firing schedule for your project.

Do you sell wholesale or larger quantities?

If you need larger quantities of shapes for workshops, classes, production work or commercial projects, please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Can you make custom pre-cut shapes?

We may be able to produce custom shapes depending on the design, size, glass type and quantity required. Contact us with your requirements and we can discuss what may be possible.

What if my glass arrives damaged?

Please contact us as soon as possible if your order arrives damaged, ideally with photographs of the packaging and the affected glass. We’ll be happy to help resolve the issue.

I can't find the shape I'm looking for. Can you help?

Absolutely. We are continually developing our range of pre-cut fused glass shapes. If you have a particular shape, motif or size in mind, get in touch and let us know what you’re looking for.

The key thing to explain is that COE (Coefficient of Expansion) tells you how much a particular glass expands and contracts as its temperature changes. In fused glass, matching COE is important because different glasses need to expand and contract at compatible rates when they are fired together.

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Common COE ranges in fused glass

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  COE 90 – Often associated with glass such as Bullseye 90. It has a higher expansion rate and should generally be used with other compatible COE 90 glass.
  
• 
  COE 96 – Commonly associated with Spectrum/96 glass systems. Like COE 90, it should be combined with glass specifically tested as compatible.
  
• 
  COE 104 – Commonly found in some soft glass and beadmaking systems. It is not automatically compatible with COE 90 or COE 96.
  
• 
  COE 33 – Often associated with borosilicate glass. It has a much lower expansion rate and belongs to a different glass system.
  

Why does COE matter?

If you fuse two glasses with significantly different expansion characteristics, they can behave differently as they cool. Although the finished piece may look perfectly fine when it comes out of the kiln, internal stresses can develop. These stresses can cause cracking, breaking or failure later, sometimes hours, days or even weeks after firing.

For this reason, you should not mix glass simply because it has the same appearance, colour or thickness. Glass should be confirmed as compatible within the same tested glass system.

An important point about COE

COE numbers are useful, but COE alone does not guarantee compatibility. Two glasses can have similar COE values but still not be compatible due to differences in their glass composition and manufacturing.

For fused-glass work, it's therefore best to use glass from a known compatible range or manufacturer and follow their compatibility and firing recommendations.

For your pre-cut shapes business, I would recommend wording your FAQ around "compatible glass systems" rather than simply saying "all COE 90 glass is compatible." That is more accurate and gives customers clearer guidance.