The glass sand casting process involves the use of hot molten glass poured directly into a mould. The sand mould is typically prepared by using a mixture of clean sand and a small proportion of the water-absorbing clay bentonite. Bentonite acts as a binding material.
In the process, a small amount of water is added to the sand-bentonite mixture and this is well mixed and sifted before addition to an open topped container. A template is prepared (typically made of wood, or a found object or even a body part such as a hand or fist) which is tightly pressed into the sand to make a clean impression. This impression then forms the mould.
The surface of the mould can be covered in coloured glass powders to give a surface colour to the sand cast glass sculpture. When the mould preparation is complete hot glass is ladled from the furnace and poured directly into the mould.
-(source Wikipedia: Glass Casting)
Here are some images from the process:
Sand, bentonite and colored glass powders in the molds
Pouring the molten glass
Placing a rod in the first glass head
Coloring the glass
Removing the sculptures from the sand
The cast sculptures, still coated in sand
One of my glass heads (incomplete), mid the finishing process.
This piece will now have all sand removed from it
and be attached to a steel ribcage and custom base.
To find out more, or to order contact:
bronzes@ninawinters.com
+ 01 727-804-1444
