Mica layers (or mica sheets) are really fun to fuse with. There are a few tips and tricks to make you projects easier though. I’m delighted to share them with you:
Suggested Tools:
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- Use a thin snap off box knife to separate the mica layers
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- Mica sheets can be cut with scissors
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- Use paper punches to create shapes if desired.
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- Reverse squeeze tweezers to place and move mica pieces.
And, of course, mica layers:
Silver Mica Layers
Gold Mica Layers
copper mica sheet
Mica layers are literally that, pieces of mica that have been fired to high temperatures to change the color and make the layers easier to separate. Firing does make the mica much more fragile, so we do have to exercise a bit of care.
Separating the layers:
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- Begin with sheet mica
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- Slip the knife between the layers of mica
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- Carefully slide the knife through the mica sheet
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- If layers are still visible, repeat
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- Multiple layers of mica separated from the same sheet.
If you are having trouble seeing the layers, try trimming of the edge of the sheet with scissors, often the layers stick together at the edge and trimming will reveal them.
Cutting shapes:
Mica shapes can be cut with scissors, razor knives or scrap book punches.
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- Use paper punches to create shapes if desired.
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- Slide mica into the punch
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- Carefully press out the mica shape.
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- Mica sheets can be cut with scissors
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- Cut desired shapes
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- Fused Silver mica circles, capped with glass
Mica layers do need to be capped, separating the layers into the thinnest possible pieces will help reduce bubbles. Scraps and pieces of mica layers can also be fused, I like to fuse the larger ones. Small scraps can be crumbled or chopped into flakes and fused as well. Mica is a silicate, so use appropriate dust control measures!
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- Fused Silver mica circles, capped with glass
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- Fused multicolor leaves
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- Fused scraps and bits
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- Fused sheet after shapes were punched
Related Articles:
Avoiding Bubbles with Mica Sheets
Firing Schedule for Inclusions
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- Mica is a silicate, use a respirator!
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- Requires firing schedule knowledge
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- Pin Me!