Introduction to Glass Fusing.

Petra Kaiser. Fort Lauderdale, FL: Wardell Publications, Inc. (954-530-0392), 2003. Illus., softcover, 80pp., $15.96. Also available through Delphi (888-281-5780).

This book is a modern-day primer on the basic skills and techniques of glass fusing, which is also sometimes referred to as warm, or kiln-fired glass. Geared toward the novice and assuming that the reader knows little or nothing about the craft, the book is filled with step-by-step photos, useful tip sidebars, and complete project instructions. Terms used regularly in fusing, as well as all the basic skills that are the building blocks of the craft, are clearly presented. Information provided ranges from tool and material descriptions to glass cutting and shaping and draping processes to more complicated procedures such as mold making and kiln operation. Chapters include Warm Glass Processes and Temperatures, Glass Tools And Equipment, Kilns and Controllers, Basic Glass Cutting Techniques, and more. Each new technique is taught via the creation of an actual project, such as a Tangram Puzzle, a Window Ornament, bowls, serving trays or Jewelry Pendants. Unique features include tables with actual firing temperatures and time schedules for each of the fifteen projects, and extensive comparisons of fourteen different commercial kiln options. Specific directions on glass cutter usage, including scoring and breaking procedures, are also of value.

While many of the projects presented are lacking in the creativity dimension, the amount of helpful information presented makes this a worthwhile purchase if glass is one of the crafts covered in a middle school and beyond classroom setting.