In 2016 I decided to pursue my interest in designing with glass. I had always wanted to do something with stained glass and after I retired I decided it was time to learn more about it. I researched various methods of creating with glass and came across the Dalle de verre (Glass Slab) method which was developed in the 1930's in Paris by Jean Gaudin. The slabs of glass are typically about 8x12 inch
es and a little over an inch thick. They are shaped with a combination of diamond wet saws, and breaking with a hammer or glass cutter. The edges of the glass may be chipped or faceted to increase the refraction and reflection effects. When I worked in Honolulu we had a beautiful window in the newspaper building that was created using Dalle de verre which I always admired so I decided that I would pursue this method of glass creations. I studied the process, and learned that there were just a few glass providers in America. In the summer of 2016 I toured the glass manufacturing firm of Kokomo Opalescent Glass which has made glass for over 150 years. After a morning touring the process of making the glass we purchased our first glass and headed home to begin creating. During the last half of 2016 I started setting up my studio and through a bit of trial and error learned the techniques and began making finished pieces. Now I am ready to begin spreading my wings and creating some custom pieces for sale. If you have an interest in a custom piece of glass that will add sparkle to your home let me know. Mike Fisch
