Molded Steuben

Apr 28, 2011
Issue 1173

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Another example from the University of Southern Indiana Carder Steuben exhibit last summer.

Dark Blue Jade Vase with Optic Ribs

Lead Glass

Few pieces at Steuben were created using only molds and if a work was molded, it would receive much hand work when removed including polishing the rough edges and finishing the surface. This vase was blown into a 16 rib paste mold and then given a satin finish.

Technical Note: The paste mold was created with an iron mold coated with a paste made of boiled linseed oil, burgundy resin and beeswax then sprinkled with apple wood sawdust. The mold’s coating was dried and baked until it was a rich brown color. At this time the glass was blown into the mold creating a smooth glass surface that was burned to form a carbon coating. At the peak time the mold was dipped in water creating a steam layer between the mold and glass to remove any mold marks. When the work was removed it had a smooth surface.

www.cardersteubenclub.org

2011 Carder Steuben Club annual Symposium will be held at The Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY from September 15-17, 2011.

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Symposium 2025
Carder Steuben Glass Association
19-20 September 2025
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