What are the basic materials and equipment needed for glass casting? Depending on the size of your studio, your glass projects, or your techniques, you’ll need a variety of different tools and machines.
Here’s the list of basic materials and equipment I use to create my glass sculptures:
Essential glass casting equipment
Industrial kiln
I use the Rohde TE 200 MCC+ model, which provides consistent heating and precise temperature control.
Eccentric grinder or Rociprolap
Perfect for grinding and polishing the glass surface (I use this model). A wet-dry vacuum cleaner is necessary to clean the polishing machine disc effectively.
Sandblasting machine
Great for adding matte textures or roughening surfaces.
Glass cutting machine
Necessary if your glass supplier doesn’t cut the pieces to size.
Materials for glass casting
Fine art plasticine or clay
Used to create the prototype and model the shape of the sculpture. Plasticine offers excellent flexibility and is easy to shape.
Refractory investment mix
A crucial material that forms the mold. I recommend a 50% hard plaster and 50% quartz mixture, or pre-mixed options like Hydracast, which offer durability and heat resistance.
Optical glass
The quality of the glass significantly impacts the final piece. I personally use S-BSL7 from Ohara, known for its clarity and optical properties.
Silicon carbide
Used for grinding the glass surface and achieving a smooth finish.
Cerium oxide
Essential for polishing the glass to a crystal-clear finish.
Diamond pads
These are indispensable for bevelling and refining the edges.
Corundum powder
Ideal for sandblasting and adding texture to the surface.
Safety gear for glass casting
FFP3 mask
Essential during mold making to protect from inhaling fine particles.
Protective gloves
To prevent cuts and burns.
Goggles
To shield your eyes from glass shards or dust.
Ear protection
Especially if using loud machinery like grinders.
