Article by Milena Kim

Glass is used for a variety of purposes, both domestic and industrial, since it is versatile and flexible. In addition, it can be decorated in various ways; some techniques include cutting, engraving, gilding, and enameling. Below is a more detailed description of possible decorations on glass.1. Adding glass to glassThis is one of the oldest methods of glass decoration and there are also various types of this method.- Combed threads: Ancient Egyptians, and later glassmakers in Rome, the Middle East, Venice, Spain, and England, used this method on small core formed vessels. Threads of hot glass are would around the body of the piece and dragged across the surface for a wavy form. Then the piece is marvered.- Trailed threads: At first, the process is similar to combed threads method described above. But the difference is that after the glass thread is trailed onto the surface, the piece is reheated without marvering. Romans, Venetians, and English used this method.2. Painting on the surface- Enameling: The colors in this method are permanently fused onto the object by re-firing it after color is applied.- Cold-painting: This method is similar to enameling, but there is no re-firing. The colors are oil or lacquer based so that they do not require additional heating to stay on the surface. However, the drawback is that decoration can be damaged easily. Thus, this method is commonly used on very large projects that do not fit into the muffle kiln, or for pieces too fragile for re-firing.- Gilding: Gold is used as paint, powder, or foil on the surface.3. Incising the surface.- Cutting: A Rotating wheel, lathe, or hand tools are used to cut glass.- Engraving: A sharply pointed tool or a rotating wheel is used to cut or scratch the surface.- Etching, or acid engraving: Hydrofluoric acid is applied on the surface of the glass to create a frosted surface. The area that will not be treated with acid is covered with acid-resistant substances such as wax or varnish for protection.- Sandblasting: Object is first covered with a protective mask, and only the areas that will be decorated are left unprotected. Then, the whole piece is subjected to blasts of sand or powdered iron that are projected from a special gun. This creates a frosted look.Another note to the third method: thicker glass can sustain deeper cuts, so that Ravenscroft’s invention of lead glass was critical in the development of more and more extravagant styles of cutting and engraving.

(To see more techniques and glass vocabulary, visit the Glass Art Encyclopedia.)

Cost

How much do you have to spend? This will be the most important factor in your purchase. You should always try to invest in good furnishings. However, you may not have the money. If not, consider ways to buy good material. You may need to take a loan out. Remember, this is a business expense. You will need to keep track of all spending. Your new workstation will be a business deduction. Anything that you do the room will also be a deduction.

Business costs

Your business room may be in need of new flooring. It may also need window blinds or shades. These count as business expenses. You might also wish to purchase a television and a sleeper sofa. These will be business related expenses. You might have the need to watch training and educational videos. It is important to have somewhere to sit, while watching. Because you use these things in business, they are a deduction. Your furnishings may also serve other purposes. Suppose you have unexpected out of town guests. They may need somewhere to stay for few days. At times, friends or family members may need temporary lodging. You may need to sleep there, occasionally.

Desks

Nothing is more important than a good desk. It is the main focus of your workspace. You need a desk that is comfortable, yet functional. Make sure that you get a quality adjustable chair, too. These items can be costly. However, you may spend a lot of time with them. Ergonomics and comfort are very important. You will feel more like working, if you are comfortable. You will need to decide on the size of the desk. Storage is very important. You want plenty of drawers, if possible. This will help you to organize all of your business material. Do you want a desk that occupies a corner? This will help you to save space in the room.

Modular units

You may wish to consider modular equipment. It comes in a variety of styles. Are you limited on space. Their open design will help. You can also add to the units, as you needs grow. Make your own private cubicle in the living room, if you need to. Some have wheels for added mobility. Modular units will give you convenience and function in one area.

Conclusion

Home businesses are becoming very popular, these days. If you start one, it is best to have a separate work area. If you have an extra bedroom it will serve you well. You may need to invest in the right office furniture, for your business. Purchase the best material that you can. Quality equipment will be more comfortable to work in. It will also be more durable. You will pay more for it. However, it will be a business related expense. If you have limited space, consider modular units. You can have your own private work area in the living room.