Colored Frit
Crushed coloured glass graded by mesh size, rolled onto a hot gather for speckled colour.
Coloring
| Abrasive | Silicon carbide or aluminium oxide |
|---|---|
| Grit range | 60 coarse to 600 fine |
| Carrier | Water, recirculated with a settling tank |
| Application | Surface preparation and edge shaping |
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
Grinding medium is the abrasive that does the actual cutting in coldworking. Silicon carbide grit in a water carrier is the workhorse: coarse grades remove material and shape an edge, fine grades prepare a surface for polishing. Water is not just a carrier, it is a coolant and a dust suppressant, and dry grinding is never acceptable.
Safety notes
- Never grind dry. Airborne glass and abrasive dust causes silicosis.
- Keep the slurry wet and covered. Dried slurry re-aerosolises when disturbed.
- Wear eye protection. Slurry spray carries fine grit.
Using it well
Practical guidance
- Step through grits in order. Jumping from 80 to 600 wastes abrasive and leaves deep scratches.
- Change the water often. A loaded slurry polishes instead of cutting.
- Mark the surface with a pencil to see when a coarse stage is complete.
What to look for
- Graded grit for predictable material removal
- Recirculating water system that keeps dust down
- Compatible with flat laps and hand grinding
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 grinding medium
Glass Powder
Finely milled coloured glass, sifted or dusted onto hot glass for soft gradients.
Coloring
Gold Leaf
Transfer gold applied to hot glass, where it fuses into a metallic surface layer.
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.