Mica Powder Will Give A Metallic
Finish To Fused Glass

Mica powder and flakes are a mineral that is used commercially, particularly in the cosmetic industry to create products with a glittery appearance.

It can be used to create a sparkle to fused pieces of glass. Used in glass fusing it is possible to create a wide range of metallic effects.

The powder can be mixed with a medium such as Klr-fire and brushed or sprayed onto the glass, spraying will give the smoothest finish.

Powder can be sifted onto a base layer of glass, then capped with a clear layer of glass and fused in the warm glass kiln.

Care needs to be taken when capping, too little powder won't impart a sparkle finish, too much may result in excessive bubbling.

Brush any excess powder away from the edge of the glass as the mica will spread under the glass and cause the edges to lift.

You may wish to fire different test pieces as a clear cap can change the final color.

If you wish powder can be placed on the top layer of glass, you may use a stencil or some type of resist to accurately place the powder or flakes.

Applying some form of glue or over-spray to the surface will help hold the mica in place.

When sifting or placing powder on top of glass, only the powder in contact with the glass will fuse, surplus powder will fall off once the item is removed from the glass fusing kiln.

If using flakes on the surface, spray with an over-spray before adding flakes, this will hold them in place.

Experiment with various background glass colors as this will give different hues to the finished product.

Powder can be mixed with glass enamels and paints and applied, as you would normally do.

One of the more interesting uses is to combine mica with glass powder.

Experiment with a glass powder ratio of 2:1, 4:1, and 6:1.

These ratios will give varying results depending on the colors used, glass fused this way will have a totally different appearance to just fusing glass with mica.

These techniques are especially suited for individual pieces of fused glass jewelry.

Although mica powder is not generally considered hazardous, prolonged contact with skin should be avoided.

Like all fine powder products breathing in the fine powder particles should also be avoided.

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