Crushed glass
is easy to make, and you can use it for hundreds of projects ranging from art to home decor. The most common term for small pieces of crushed glass is frit, which ranges in size and texture based on the method of glass crushing.
Function
You can use crushed glass in jewelry, beads, lamps and other glass ornamentations. Finely ground frit works as a pigment in colored art glass and glass fusing.
Methods
The simplest method for making frit at home is wrapping the larger pieces of glass in cloth or paper and using a hammer to break it up carefully. Another method is to heat the glass with an outdoor grill or fire pit and then use tongs to place the glass in a bucket of cold water -- the sudden change in temperature will cause the glass to break. Old garbage disposals also can make frit if set up correctly, but use extreme caution when removing the disposal from the sink and attaching it to an outside table or bench.
Warning
When crushing glass at home, always remember to wear eye protection, a protective mask and gloves to avoid cuts and burns during the frit-making process. Glass crushing can be dangerous, so be alert and act responsibly.
