My Journey Into Fused Glass: How It All Began
When my son Calum left home, I suddenly found myself with space and time — both in my life and in my mind. Having become a mum as a teenager, I had never really known adulthood without being Mum. For the first time, I had the chance to rediscover who I was — and to find something that was completely my own.
Discovering Glass
I’d never thought of myself as an “arty” person. But I’ve always been curious, and when I stumbled across fused glass art, something clicked. The process appealed to the science nerd in me — heat, chemistry, transformation. Using a kiln didn’t scare me; it fascinated me. And the idea that I could turn something so technical into something beautiful was irresistible.
Taking My First Steps
Before I even touched a piece of glass, I devoured books and videos, trying to understand everything I could. Eventually, I took a two-day fused glass course with John Piccolo, and that’s when it really began.
I’ll never forget opening the kiln for the first time. I’d made a moon and some butterfly coasters, which sold almost immediately. That little success gave me a huge boost of confidence, and soon after, my boyfriend (now husband) invested in me, helping me buy my first kiln and materials. That support changed everything, and I started creating contemporary fused glass.
Setting Up My First Studio
My first kiln was a Skutt Firebox 14, and because I’d used Bullseye Glass during my course, I stuck with it. I ordered from Warm Glass UK, who at the time offered free delivery — a godsend for someone living on the Isle of Skye! (Sadly, that’s no longer the case — free delivery now only applies to the mainland, which stings a little.)
Living on Skye has its challenges — no local studio spaces and tricky deliveries — so my “studio” was my dining room, not ideal, but it was where everything began.
Early Lessons and Growing Confidence
Like many beginners, I tried to run before I could walk. I made mistakes, but each one taught me something new. I refused to give up. Slowly, I grew — both as a glass artist and as a person. Fused glass has also introduced me to a fantastic group of makers with whom I sell at local craft fairs. The social aspect of being part of a group and the support and encouragement we offer each other is immeasurable.
Where I Am Now
These days, I work with a Kilncare kiln — slightly bigger, though still not as large as I’d like! I’ve now got a small and messy studio in my garden. My work continues to evolve through mentoring with Catherine Dunstan, who’s been an incredible source of guidance.
I’ve learned that I’m not interested in making “twee” pieces or repeating the same thing over and over. What excites me is experimenting — pushing glass in new directions. My abstract fused glass art often reflects the community, culture, heritage, and environment of Skye — themes close to my heart through my day job in community development.
Looking Ahead
My dream is to have a larger studio and kiln, and to exhibit more widely. I recently exhibited in Glasgow with the Scottish Glass Society, who celebrate Contemporary Scottish Glass Artists. I’m thrilled to be part of the Visual Arts Scotland Open Call this December, showing my work in Edinburgh at the Royal Scottish Academy — a huge milestone in my journey.
Final Thoughts
If I can be creative, anyone can. You don’t need to have an “art background” — just curiosity and the courage to start. Pick up the tools, make something that feels like you, and see where it takes you.
Elizabeth Taggart is a fused glass artist based on the Isle of Skye, creating contemporary, unique pieces inspired by the island’s landscape, culture, and community. See more of her work at cuillin-glass.co.uk or follow her creative journey on Instagram at @cuillin.glass.skye.”