A blog about learning how to fuse glass in a microwave using a microwave kiln by Diane Gracely, the owner of FusedGlassShop.com A blog and website where people come to buy fused glass jewelry grab bags and learn about fusing glass through our videos and blog posts at FusedGlassShop.com
To fuse glass in a microwave kiln, you place clean, compatible glass on kiln paper over the kiln base, cover it with the lid, and microwave it for 2 to 5 minutes until it glows red-yellow.
Required Equipment
- A dedicated microwave (never use your kitchen food microwave).
- Microwave kiln (base and lid).
- Heat-resistant gloves or oven mitts.
- Kiln paper or fiber paper (serves as a glass separator).
- Compatible glass (e.g., COE 90 or COE 96 sheet glass, frit, or confetti).
- Heat-resistant surface (like a ceramic tile or firebrick).
Dedicate time to learning the step-by-step fusing process. Watch YouTube videos about how to fuse glass in a microwave kiln. It’s literally the best way to learn a lot in a short amount of time.
This is a dangerous hobby, so please take the time to learn how to fuse glass in a microwave using a kiln before experimenting.
Fusing Glass in a Microwave Safety
- Wear a respirator mask when handling used kiln paper, as the burnt fiber dust is harmful to breathe in.
- Use IR/UV safety glasses if you plan on looking directly at the glowing, red-hot glass inside the chamber.
- Leave the microwave door open after your project is done to let any trapped heat escape