Graal Process
The Graal process of trapping imagery within layers of blown glass originated in 1916 at the Swedish glass factory Orrefors. Loosely translated Graal means grail or cup, describing a coloured glass form which is then worked to create a pattern or design on the surface that can then be reworked in the glass studio. Traditionally this design would be etched or sandblasted through layers of colour however the graal work of DWGlass uses enamel pigments to create a painterly image.
Once a design has been worked out through sketching it is then hand painted onto the glass cup.
The painted blank has to be reheated slowly in a kiln to prevent it from cracking.The Blank is then attached to the blowing iron and dipped back into the furnace, trapping the painted design beneath a layer of clear glass. The glass at this stage is around 1000°c and can be further blown and shaped.
After the piece is blown it is again placed in a kiln to cool slowly. depending on the thickness of the item this can take over 20 hours.
Once cool the piece is then cold worked and signed.
