Fused Glass Powder Sgraffito Drawings

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These original drawings in kiln formed glass is called Fused Glass Powder Sgraffito drawings. Sgraffito is a subtractive technique; dark areas require adding lots of powder and light areas are created by scraping away the powdered glass. The finished drawing is fired in the kiln.

The tools I use to draw the painting consist of business cards (full size and torn), silicone tip paint brushes, and various household utensils that create unique patterns and lines in the powder. The finished piece is 100% glass and the drawing are permanent.

THE PROCESS

The first step is to make a copy of my photograph. I draw lines on the copy to map out where key features are on the pig (eyes, ears, top of head, hooves). This is my road map to ensure my drawing is accurate in size and placement. Then, I place a cut piece of opaque creme colored glass over the photo, centering it so my reference lines are in the right spot. Next, I dust a fine layer of black powder on the glass and move the powder around with a business card to create the drawing. I use various tools to refine the shape and add details to the drawing (see picture below-notice the eyelashes). When the drawing is finished, it’s ready to be fired in the kiln. The next day, I take it out of the kiln and add pops of color using frit (crushed glass). I carefully sprinkle the frit on key areas of my drawing. Lastly, I cut a piece of black glass, slightly larger than the drawing, and place it on the bottom. Now, it’s ready to go in the kiln for a second firing. The final result, a handmade Sgraffito drawing on glass.

Fiona Fox