Graal

Graal

Graal is a decorative technique that was developed around 1915 in the Orrefors glasshouse of Sweden. The name Graal, chosen by Albert Ahlin was a literary reference to the chalice that supposedly held Christ's blood.

Graal in off-hand glassblowing

In off-hand glassblowing the technique consists of blowing a blank of cased glass into an open receptacle. After cooling, the blank can be carved or etched with sand or acid to create the desired decoration. The piece is then re-heated and blown into the desired shape.

Graal in lampworking

In lampworking, a tube is blown out and wrapped with colored rod or powder. Then another layer (or multiple layers)of powder is added. After cooling, the blank can be carved or etched with sand or acid to create the desired decoration. The piece is then re-heated and blown into the desired shape.

With solid work, a piece is covered with powder, allowed to cool and then sandblasted. It can then be reheated to melt the design in smooth.

Encasing Graal

To encase graal, such as in a marble or paperweight, make a colored disc of glass and add a layer of glass powder. Once it has cooled a design can be sandblasted into the disc. Re-heat in the kiln and add clear lenses to encase the design.

NOTE*- IT IS ONLY GRAAL WHEN IT IS HEATED UP AGAIN***