Glass Powder
Finely milled coloured glass, sifted or dusted onto hot glass for soft gradients.
Coloring
| Particle size | Mesh 40 (coarse) to mesh 80 (fine) |
|---|---|
| COE match | Within plus or minus 1 point of the base glass |
| Colour range | 60 plus transparent and opal colours |
| Compatible glass | Soda-lime, borosilicate, lead crystal |
| Typical dosage | 5 - 15 percent by surface volume |
Compatible glass types
Soda-lime
Borosilicate
Lead crystal
Compatibility assumes the tool is rated for the working temperature of that glass family. Check the maker's documentation before use.
Overview
Frit is coloured glass crushed and sieved into grades. A hot gather rolled across a tray of frit picks up a layer that fuses into the surface, giving either an even wash or a speckled pattern depending on grade and how hard you press. The one rule that cannot be broken is coefficient of expansion: frit must match the base glass to within about one point or the piece will craze.
Safety notes
- Frit dust is a respiratory irritant and a heavy metal exposure risk with some colours. Wear a dust mask when handling fine grades.
- Never sweep dry frit with compressed air. It aerosolises the fine fraction.
- Wash hands after handling oxide-bearing colours before eating or drinking.
Using it well
Practical guidance
- Coarse frit gives bold speckle, fine frit gives an even wash. Mix grades for depth.
- Roll the gather on frit while it is still tacky but not dripping, then reheat to fuse it in.
- Keep colours in sealed jars. Cross-contamination between jars ruins both.
- Test every new colour on a small bead before committing to a large piece.
What to look for
- Graded by mesh so results are repeatable
- COE documented per colour for safe pairing
- Sealed jars that keep the fine fraction from drifting
High temperature tool
This tool operates in or near the working range of molten glass. Read the safety notes above before first use, and never work with it without eye protection, heat-resistant gloves and working extraction.
Reference information only. Specifications are published ranges drawn from manufacturer documentation and normalised for comparison. They vary between makers and between individual units. This page does not sell or endorse any product, and does not guarantee any result. Follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions and take hands-on instruction before operating hot glass equipment.
Related
Tools used alongside the colored frit
Gold Leaf
Transfer gold applied to hot glass, where it fuses into a metallic surface layer.
Coloring
Grinding Medium
Abrasive grit and carrier used to prepare or texture a glass surface before finishing.
Coloring
See the color & surface workflow
Read the category overview, or jump into the 3D Studio to see these tools applied to a live piece.