Float Glass Slab Water Sculpture Tutorial
A Kiln-Forming Guide for Intermediate Glass Artists
Create a striking, free-standing fused glass sculpture using standard float glass—no moulds, no colourants, just the material itself pushed to its limits.
This in-depth tutorial shows you how to construct a dense, multi-layered slab (approx. 15–25cm tall and ~3cm thick) from 2mm float glass strips, producing a rich aqua-green depth of colour through mass alone. The organic top profile is designed before firing and refined through controlled kiln work, resulting in a sculptural piece with movement, weight, and presence.
I also give some guidance on displaying and lighting using acrylic and LED.
What You’ll Learn
How to design a flowing top profile using varied strip lengths
Techniques for cutting, preparing, and assembling large quantities of float glass
How to build a stable, edge-packed structure without moulds
Kiln setup for heavy glass loads, including damming and shelf preparation
A proven firing schedule for thick float glass work
Annealing strategy for mass glass (critical for structural integrity)
Troubleshooting common faults such as cracking, devitrification, and uneven fusion
Finishing and display options, including illuminated acrylic bases
Why This Tutorial Is Different
Most fused glass tutorials focus on thin, decorative work using specialist art glass.
This tutorial is built around float glass in mass—a material often overlooked, but capable of extraordinary results when handled correctly. You’ll learn a process that prioritises control, efficiency, and material behaviour rather than overcomplicated kiln schedules.
Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced
You should already be comfortable with:
Glass cutting
Kiln operation and programming
Basic fusing principles
This is a technically demanding project involving significant glass thickness and extended annealing.
What You’ll Need
A full materials and tools list is included, covering:
2mm float glass
Kiln with digital controller
Cutting and safety equipment
Kiln shelf preparation materials
Optional finishing and display components
Format
Instant digital download (PDF)
Step-by-step instructions
Clear explanations of process and material behaviour
Professional troubleshooting guide
Important Notes
This tutorial is for personal use only
Float glass must not be mixed with other glass types
Proper annealing is essential for safety and durability
About the Artist
Jo Turner of Turner Rowe Art Centre & Gallery has over sixteen years’ experience working with glass, with a particular focus on float glass as a sculptural material. With a background in science, her work explores the behaviour of glass at thickness—where colour, structure, and process intersect.
 
Download now and start working with float glass in a completely different way.