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General directions for using frit casting molds to make cabochons
Step 1. Treat the mold with glass separator of choice according to the glass separator manufacturer’s written instructions.
Step 2. If desired, place a small piece of dichroic glass or small piece of compatible sheet glass into the mold cavity.
Step 3. Using a plastic spoon, place medium grain frit over the dichro or sheet glass in the cavity. Use enough frit to complete cover the dichro or sheet glass and heap slightly over the top of the cavity.
Any colors or assortment of colors of frit can be used in this project as long as all of the glass used is of the same COE.
Step 4. Using a brush create a small peaked heap of frit in the center of the cavity moving the frit from the top edges of the wall of the cavity to avoid “burrs” when firing.
Step 5. Fill each cavity of the mold in like fashion
Step 6. Place the molds with the frit in the center of a kiln. Fire the kiln at 350 degrees F per hour to 1360 degrees F. hold for 15 minutes then ramp at 350 degrees per hour to1460 degrees F until the glass is fused completely. Typically this will require a hold time of 10 minutes. Allow the kiln to cool naturally to room temperature.
Step 7. Remove the molds from the kiln. If your glass is completely fused,
your cabochons should look something like this from the kiln.
Step 8. Turn the mold over to de-mold the cabochons. Rinse the cabs in soapy water to remove any glass separator.
Step 9. If desired, Apply a tiny dot of adhesive to the back of each cabochon and apply them to selected hardware to form jewelry.
One can also use E6000 or a good two part epoxy.
Step 10. Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s written instructions.
