Cut glass is shaped using "coldwork" techniques, specifically grinding or drilling, after the initial glass piece has been formed.
Historically, cut glass production involves a secondary process known as "coldworking." This means the glass isn't cut in a molten state. Instead, a finished piece of glass, typically formed through glassblowing or other conventional methods, undergoes further shaping.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Initial Glass Formation: The glassblower first creates a basic glass form using traditional glassblowing techniques or other methods.
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Coldworking: Once the glass has cooled and hardened, the "cutting" or shaping process begins. This is done with specialized tools that grind or drill away portions of the glass.
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Grinding: Wheels made of various abrasive materials, like carborundum (silicon carbide), are used to grind patterns into the glass. The coarseness of the wheel depends on the desired depth and detail of the cut.
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Drilling: Drills with abrasive tips can also be used to create specific shapes or intricate designs in the glass.
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Polishing: After grinding and drilling, the cut glass is then polished with progressively finer abrasives to achieve a smooth, sparkling finish. This often involves the use of polishing wheels and compounds.
Why "Coldwork"?
The term "coldwork" emphasizes that the glass is worked on at room temperature, using abrasive tools to remove material rather than melting and reforming the glass. This allows for much greater precision and detail in the final design.
