Whether you’re a seasoned glass artist or a beginner stepping into the luminous world of fused glass, Hollander fusing stained glass sheets are a name you’re likely to encounter. Known for their rich colors, excellent compatibility, and versatility, these glass sheets are trusted by artists and educators across the country. When it comes to creating stunning fused glass art, Hollander provides both the materials and the expertise to bring your vision to life.
What Are Hollander Fusing Stained Glass Sheets?
Hollander fusing stained glass sheets are specially manufactured glass pieces designed for use in kiln-fired glass fusing projects. Unlike traditional stained glass (which is assembled using solder and metal channels), fusing glass is heated in a kiln until the individual pieces melt and bond together.
Hollander’s sheets are available in various textures, opacities, and colors, making them ideal for layering, blending, and crafting intricate fused glass art. Each sheet is tested for coefficient of expansion (COE)—usually COE 90 or COE 96—to ensure proper compatibility when firing.
Why Artists Choose Hollander Fusing Glass
Artists choose Hollander for a variety of reasons:
1. High-Quality Glass
Hollander’s glass sheets are carefully manufactured and inspected to ensure consistent quality, color, and texture. This consistency is especially important in fusing, where even small differences in glass chemistry can lead to cracking or incompatibility during kiln firing.
2. Color Variety and Effects
From deep jewel tones to soft pastels, Hollander fusing stained glass sheets come in a wide palette of colors. Many sheets include swirls, iridescent finishes, or streaky textures that add depth and movement to finished pieces. Whether you’re making a fused glass bowl, wall hanging, or jewelry, there’s a color and style to suit your creative vision.
3. Compatibility and Safety
Hollander ensures that its glass sheets are compatible within the same COE group. This is crucial in fusing—mixing incompatible glass can cause stress fractures and ruin your project. Artists appreciate the reliability of Hollander’s materials when it comes to matching colors and maintaining the structural integrity of their work.
4. Beginner-Friendly Options
Hollander also supports hobbyists and beginners with smaller sheet sizes, pre-cut shapes, and glass packs that are ideal for learning and experimentation. These beginner-friendly products make it easy to start a project without a large investment in equipment or materials.
5. Common Uses for Hollander Fusing Glass Sheets
Hollander fusing stained glass sheets are used in a wide range of applications:
- Kiln-formed bowls and plates
- Fused glass panels and wall art
- Decorative tiles and mosaics
- Jewelry making (pendants, earrings, beads)
- Custom window accents
- Mixed-media artwork
Because the sheets are designed for kiln use, they can also be combined with other elements like stringers, frit, dichroic glass, and metal inclusions to create complex, layered designs.
How to Work with Fusing Glass Sheets
If you’re new to fused glass art, working with Hollander glass sheets can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a simple overview of the process:
- Design and Cut
Use a glass cutter and running pliers to score and break the glass into desired shapes. Layout your design on a kiln shelf lined with fiber paper or kiln wash.
- Assemble Layers
Stack your pieces according to your design. You can layer transparent and opaque glass, add decorative elements like frit, or include metal foils for unique effects.
- Kiln Firing
Fire the assembled piece in a kiln following a controlled temperature schedule. This schedule includes ramping up, holding (soaking), and cooling stages to ensure even fusing without stress or cracking.
- Coldworking (Optional)
After firing, you may choose to grind edges, polish surfaces, or refire your piece for additional effects.
For best results, artists often test small samples before firing a full project. Hollander’s consistent glass quality makes it easier to predict outcomes and avoid costly mistakes.
Where to Buy Hollander Fusing Glass Sheets
Hollander fusing stained glass sheets are available through various art supply retailers and specialty glass distributors. You can also purchase them directly from Hollander Glass, which often provides:
- Full-size sheets and pre-cut packs
- Glass sample sets
- Tools and kiln supplies
- Workshops and classes
Some suppliers even offer bulk discounts, making it cost-effective for studios or classrooms.
Supporting Artistic Growth
Beyond providing top-tier materials, Hollander is known for supporting the glass art community through education, events, and collaboration. Many studios across the U.S. that use Hollander glass also offer classes on glass cutting, fusing basics, and advanced kiln techniques. Whether you’re an individual artist or an educator, Hollander makes it easy to access the resources you need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Hollander fusing stained glass sheets are more than just raw materials—they’re a gateway to creativity. Their vibrant colors, compatibility, and accessibility make them a top choice for artists working in fused glass. Whether you’re creating your first fused pendant or your hundredth decorative bowl, you can trust Hollander’s glass to perform beautifully in every kiln project.
