Flow Bars
There are
many different ways to create pattern bars. Since the mid 1990’s Carmen and I
have been exploring what I call “Flow Bars.” These are pattern bars with a
set-up that requires the glass to flow over, through or around an objects or
openings to stir the pattern. The results are beautiful and intriguing.
To make the “Two
Rod” flow bars some you will need 2 – ¼” diameter stainless steel rods, ½ x 24” x 6” fiber board or old kiln shelves
and a soft brick. You will also need an old cross cut wood saw, a drill bit,
some shelf primer and some glass. 
Step 1. Cut the soft brick into two matching pieces of
your desired width. I use an old saw because it’s not going to be much good for
wood after cutting the soft brick. I cut
my sections 2” x 2.5” x 3”
Step 2. Twisting the bit with your fingers, drill two
matching holes for the stainless steel rods. Using an electric drill will just
chew up the soft brick. If you keep the wholes at the same height you glass
will sit level on them.
Step 3. With a utility knife, cut the fiberboard into
two 3” wide sections. You can choose to burn out the fiberboard and/ or add
rigidizer to make them stronger, but I don’t. 
Step 4. I mix my shelf primer thicker than normal
using 1- part Fuse Master Shelf Primer and 2 – parts water. Paint everything
except the rods with a nice thick protective coating of shelf primer. If you paint the rods, the shelf primer will
get inside and contaminate your flow bar.
Step 5. Cut your glass into strips ¼” narrower than
your soft brick. My brick is 3” wide, my strips are 2 ¾” wide and as long as
the exposed rods. Stack as many strips
as you would like (8 to 10 is a good starting point). Using at least half clear
makes for a visually interesting bar. This is your primary design opportunity
so put some thought into creating a pleasing palette and design.
Learn more
about ways to make and use pattern bars in the “Ultimate Fusing” class with Gil
Reynolds June 24-28, 2013. …
