Experience Required: None - that's right it's fun for everyone
Type of Class: Demonstration and many hands-on projects. Students will make many projects and be encouraged to create their one of a kind pieces based on the things they've learned.
Class Description: In this jam packed three day class, students will learn the basics, including glass compatibility, kiln preparation and operation, fusing, slumping and annealing. Sample tons of fusing supplies including frits, stringers, confetti and Dichroic glass along with the use of various slumping , textured, and casting molds. Words can't do this class justice. Sign up and find out why.
Safety: Not to fear, glass is safe however we do have a few safety procedures to ensure this.
Closed toed shoes are recommended when cutting or handling glass.
Safety glasses should be worn during class. Glasses will be provided if necessary.
Tools & Materials Included: Use of our tools for the class. All materials (including fusible glass) provided.
Additional Tools & Materials: Paper/pen for notes- optional. If you want feel free to bring your own glass cutting tools.
Life happens, we totally understand. If you are unable to join class, please contact us at 517-394-4685, or leave us an email at [email protected], prior to class starting for a refund or to be added to a future class.
Pros : Excellent instructor/artist who was extremely knowledgeable and that generously allowed students to go in the direction of their own interests while providing oversight and guidance rather than employing a "one size fits all" agenda.
Three consecutive days allowed enough time to learn the basics and plenty of time to utilize newfound knowledge.
Classroom set-up is great with everything handy for students, including individual kilns for experimentation.
Delphi goes the extra mile to accommodate students and introduce them into the world of glass creativity.
Cons : None.
Other Thoughts : I would highly recommend this class to anyone with or without previous glass experience. It provides the basics and allows time to experiment before committing to the expense of a new art form.
Pros : This class sounds like a beginner class…it is and it isn’t. I know the beginners got a lot out of it, but so did I. I’ve had experience doing a variety of ‘make and take’, classes, and done some projects on my own. But I learned a lot from this class, especially about firing schedules, what the segments are, and when and how to change them. We were able to try a variety of fusing techniques, with the techniques explained. Val was a great teacher!
Cons : Really weren’t any cons. I loved the class.
Pros : I had so many questions about using my kiln. Val walked me through all of them. She also showed us some new methods of manipulating glass in our projects. I felt the three days will advance my glass fusing capabilities immensely.
Cons : I have none.
Other Thoughts : The class was very worthwhile. I left with a lot more confidence in my abilities.
Pros : Val was well-versed on the complete subject of fused glass making. She brought to the table her 25 years of hands on experience. I began the class knowing very little and left feeling confident I can create most anything I choose. I was especially intimidated by using a kiln and all those fears have been assuaged. Val explained firing segments and duplicated ones we used for class projects for us to take home and use for reference. With a very easy tips I mastered cutting; something I had been struggling with. I even cut a 10” circle.?? I couldn’t be more pleased and would definitely recommend the generous, friendly folks at Delphi.
Cons : Other than I live too far from the store, none??
Other Thoughts : I was initially intrigued-how a class could last 3 days…. Every moment was filled with useful information. I attended by myself but didn’t feel isolated or alone in the slightest. The size, of the class was perfect to be enable questions, learn from others and make new friends. Cudos to Val!!
Pros : I learned so much about fusing glass, kilns, and glass. The hands-on projects were varied and taught basic fusing techniques and provided ample opportunities to practice new skills, analyze our work, and grow as new glass artists.
Cons :
Other Thoughts : I look forward to trying additional classes in the future. This was a great experience and three fun-filled days.
Pros : This class was a perfect introduction to glass fusing. An amazing amount of information was covered in a clear, concise and fun way, in three days. The instructor Val, was exceptional. She was extremely knowledgeable, flexible, catered to individual students needs, while still keeping the class moving forward. Would highly recommend!
Pros : Val was awesome! I learned so much. I purchased a kiln about a year ago and spent most of the year learning on my own. The three days spent in this class taught me so much. We made a number of projects and Val answered all of the questions that I had. I would definitely take another class.
Pros : Val taught us a lot about the many different facets of fusing glass. We were allowed to make what we wanted. Handout material was excellent.
Cons :
Other Thoughts : This is a tough one to address. But, there was a guy in my class with a bad cold who was constantly coughing without covering his mouth, sneezing, blowing his nose and handling everything without washing his hands. I kept my mouth shut because I didn’t want to disrupt the class. But… sure enough I developed a bad cold on Saturday and am still dealing with it the following Tuesday. PLEASE put up a sign on classroom door telling folks to stay home if sick, or at least mask up. And to use sanitizer frequently. Maybe just handing him a bottle of sanitizer would have gotten the message across.
Pros : While you certainly make several fused items in the class the most important thing was learning how to use the kiln. Val was incredible in explaining not only the basics but how and why you might adjust your programming. I left feeling like I could really do this on my own and understand what I needed to do.
Cons : None at all!
Other Thoughts : Class size was great. Exposure to different things you could do with fusing was wonderful. And Val, the instructor was awesome!!! She was open to anything we wanted to try and her knowledge base allowed her to thoughtfully answer any questions that we could pose.
Pros : It was fun! The small size of the class allowed us to get to know each other well and not feel intimidated to ask questions. Val is an effective teacher. We had plenty of time to try things and then we got to debrief after the pieces were done. Learning by doing! I knew next to nothing about fusing and came away with knowledge and enough confidence to try it on my own. I feel less intimidated about using a kiln and know how to find resources to keep learning.
Cons : None
Other Thoughts : I was apprehensive about attending because of my lack of experience with fusing. So glad I went to the class.
Pros : Class was designed for any level of beginner fuser. Learned different processes of things do make in glass. Even if you already have a kiln and have used it since you will enjoy this class.
Cons : Wasn’t long enough!
Other Thoughts : Val was a great teacher and provided lots of information and tips from her years of experience. Would definitely recommend this class to anyone!
Pros : I learned the price of admission within the first couple of hours! And additional several times after that! Val presented things well and answered any questions we had, even if we had already asked them 17 times! I would highly recommend this class to anyone who fuses. I’ve been fusing for over 10 years and I learned a lot and how to save some $$$!
Cons : Too short ??. I could have stayed there a few more days!!
Pros : I learned a lot! Val is a great teacher and gave me the info to do the projects I plan to do. I learned about glass types, equipment and schedules. Thanks
Cons :
Other Thoughts : I wish I was better prepared for the many projects we were able to make.
Pros : This class was very well organized and full of great information. The instructor, Val, was very knowledgeable and friendly. We were given an opportunity to learn by doing a variety of fun projects and the freedom to be creative and choose our own materials.
Pros : Class size was perfect. We were all able to see and do the things together. My husband who came along thought he would be spending 8 hours a day for three days in a boring class. After he commented, that the time went fast and he had a ton of fun. You get to let your creative side some out. Val is very patient and extremely knowledgeable.
Cons : It was a 4 hour airplane ride away and a missed flight that led to 9 hour delay in an airport!
Other Thoughts : I would sign up for this class again in a heart beat. After the class, my husband was asking what other classes did they offer. Beware, we may be back! It would be nice to see some back to back classes- so those we travel long distance could do more in one trip.
Pros : 1. Extremely knowledgable, kind, pensive, patient instructor- Val!
2. Great space for class- everything you could even want to use!
3. 3 glorious days of learning and creating!
Cons : Class ended.
Other Thoughts : The best artistic learning experience ever!
Pros : Great class. Wonderful instructor (Val), good pace (not too fast, not too slow). Learned a a great deal and sparked my interest in glass fusing.
Cons : because of weather (which was unfornseen), the class was cut short by one day.
Other Thoughts : Val was a wonderful teacher. She really kept the class going.
Pros : I left with a strong understanding of not only firing schedules but of the firing process and what happens at certain temperatures. I appreciated the opportunity to work on various projects, from slumping, using fiber board, using molds and frit and transferring pictures/decals to glass. It was helpful to have Val tell us she would love for us to stay in touch if we have any questions. Class size was great. I felt I got very adequate help one on one.
Cons : I learned from staff behind the cash register that we receive 20% off since we were taking the class. I don't remember that being mentioned in class. That would have been helpful.
Other Thoughts : I also found it fascinating to see the actual store. I've done a bit of fusing before and have ordered supplies frequently from Delphi. It was fun to see where it comes from!
I would love to see you offer a fused glass jewelry class, teaching different possibilities and methods. Thanks for a great experience!
Pros : This class was amazing. Val is a terrific teacher. She was informative and presented the material in a way that allowed us to gain an better understanding of the various steps in the process of fusing. Val answered our questions and provided support during our hands on projects. I was excited to enroll in this class and it did not disappoint!
Pros : Val did a wonderful job explaining the fundamentals of fusing and answering ALL of our questions!
It was fun to choose the glass and the molds.
I learned SO much and am eager to buy a kiln and do MORE!
Cons : I only wish I had more time!
Also, a sink in the classroom would be handy!
Other Thoughts : I thought the 4 of us was a perfect size! (2 cancelled). When one of the ladies who cancelled came on Friday, it did seem a bit crowded. I am happy I was in a class with 4.
I'm very grateful that I had this opportunity. Thanks, Delphi!
Pros : Val is a most engaging and expert instructor. She was genuinely involved with the students and her knowledge knows no limit. I had fun and learned so much. She was generous with her time, expertise, materials and encouragement.
Cons : I wish I lived closer. I would take every class they offer.
Other Thoughts : I honestly think they could have charged double for the class and it still would have been worth it. However they make up for it with all the items I decided to purchase including a kiln and some
Molds and lots and lots of glass.
Pros : Before this class, I had very little knowledge about glass fusion. We had 6 people in our class and everyone had various levels of glass fusion knowledge. Val met us on each of our knowledge levels and everyone raved about how much they learned in the class. I am looking forward to taking more classes with Val!
Pros : Awesome class. Learned a lot. I am now applying to my art and my Etsy shop has new items, that are selling. I am excited as my skills improve where this will all go. The class was encompassing and all my questions were answered. Learned much. Thank you Val!
Cons : Can’t think of any, except for the long drive from South Carolina
Other Thoughts : I learned other techniques I had not even thought of. Personally, I think the class was excellent and would easily consider another class, even with the long drive. Well done!
Pros : Gained all the fundamental knowledge I needed to get started in fusing.
Understanding of how fusing work, what's happened to the the glass at different segments of the process
Understanding of the fusing schedules and how to "tweak" them based on what you are doing.
Learn a lot about the kilns themselves, as far as what's happening at the different segments
The class was packed full of learning and activities.
Was able to do several projects and take home my first pieces.
My specific group was great. We all got along well, shared ideas, helped each other.
Great experience
Cons : None. Absolutely none.
Other Thoughts : Val was out instructor. She is fantastic.
She shares her years of knowledge and experience, and that made it very easy to learn and understand what's taking place in the different segments of fusing. Having that understanding really helps when you're figuring out the firing schedules.
Great group. Great Class. Lots of fun.
Kurt
Pros : Val is so knowledgeable - and makes you feel so comfortable with asking questions and working with glass when you're really new to this. She has projects planned.. but also tailors the class to what YOU are interested in. I was just amazed at how accommodating Delphi was.. it had structure, but as much freedom as you wanted too!
Pros : I absolutely loved this class and would definitely sign up for it again! Val is an excellent teacher, explains things clearly, and provides individual help as needed. And over three days, there's so much time and freedom to make whatever projects you'd like to try. I had taken previous fusing classes, and this was both a nice review of what I'd learned before and a chance to strike out on my own and just experiment with the materials.
Cons : I wanted just one more day! Seriously, I can't think of any cons. Maybe would be nice to see more examples of what previous students had created, just get some ideas?
Pros : Lots of very valuable information and hands on work. Val is a superior instructor with many examples of the "to do's" and the "not the best ways". Enjoyed all the projects. Each day was filled with interesting things. I'd go back for more even though I live 5 hours away.
Cons : None!!
Other Thoughts : Glass is not easy and I have a much greater appreciation for the art of it as well as the craft.
Pros : Val will answer all your questions patiently and honestly. There are a lot of different glass and techniques to experiment with, and she was accommodating of special requests. You get far more than you money’s worth.
Cons : Not really a con, but unless you speak up things will be flat fused on a quicker schedule. Expect bubbles.
Other Thoughts : If you’re considering the class, take it. It’s a real deal with genuine people in a supportive environment.
Pros : Very informative for those of us wanting to really get into glass fusing. With what limited knowledge I had going in that limited knowledge has expanded to where I want to explore more of this fun hobby. We experimented with what works and what doesn't, and we loved experimenting! We got to try all different types of glass, things as a home hobbyist we would probably never buy. We had fun with our projects and it was a great bunch of ladies. Thank you!
Cons : It ended too soon.
Other Thoughts : A thought, when people sign up to let them know to bring/pick up lunch on the days of class. Not that I couldn't of asked beforehand. It all worked out in the end.
Pros : Thoroughly enjoyed the class.
Instructor (Val) was great. Just the right amount of info for a beginner.
Didn't realize I would be making so many take home projects! Thank you
Pros : The fusing seminar was exactly what I needed, or maybe not, as I see more purchases in my future :) Our eyes were opened to many fusing techniques and possibilities. With no fusing experience other than knowing a few terms, Val made firing schedules not so scary and even understandable. We experimented with various forms of 90COE glass (yup, I know what that means now), slumping and casting molds, vitrigraph and more. Val had many hands on examples of works, good and bad, projects stopped at progressive temps, different textures, it all led to a lot a knowledge being absorbed in those three days.
Cons : There are no cons, just having to drive home.
Pros : Great for beginners to glass fusion
Lots of different projects to make
Easy to understand format
Val is patient and great instructor!
Cons : none
Other Thoughts : Never before have I learned about working with glass. Now I can't get enough of it! I didn't want the class to end and want to make more things and experiment. It was well worth the investment to take this course.
Thank you so much
Pros : Val is a huge pro! Not only does she know her stuff when it comes to glass, but she presented the information in such a way that it was completely understandable. She answered all of the questions we had, helped when we needed it, but allowed us to make mistakes and learn; She never just jumped in and took over on our project pieces. Made so many big and little projects that I have plenty of examples to compare to.
Cons : No cons related to Delphi or Val. It is just a bit of a drive.
Other Thoughts : Can't wait to take another class.
Pros : This class is good for either the novice, with some experience or, like me who had to take a break for a few years and need a refresher. It is very thorough and the benefit of 3 sequential days is you get to see your work the next day, evaluate, ask questions and grow from there. There is time for freestyle, to apply your knowledge to create your own pieces. Val, the instructor, encourages experimentation and allow you to be creative.
Cons : Plan on buying, or wanting to buy, a lot of supplies to go home and try more. If you are new and don’t have a kiln you may want to add that to your shopping list.
Pros : Val was great. We learned the fundamentals and also what to do if things don't turn right.We also learned how to program our kilns according to the projects we made.
Cons :
Other Thoughts : My daughter in law took the class with me. I had experience and she didn't. We both loved it.
Pros : I truly enjoyed this class! It was very informative and fun. I walked away very excited to start sharing what I learned with others. Val was very patient and made learning fun. I would definitely recommend taking this class if you are interested in glass fusion.
Pros : Val was great and I learned so much! I had recently purchased a kiln but was not very comfortable with programming it. Now I know what to do and what to expect! It was also great to try out different techniques like using fiber paper, slumping items, and working with various molds. Great class!
Pros : I had a great time learning how to fuse glass and creating projects with different techniques, such as using fiber paper to create tiles and frit to create jewelry pieces, as well as fusing and slumping glass. Val was very knowledgeable and customized the class on day 3 to things we were interested in learning. I traveled from New Orleans to take the class. I would take more classes at Delphi if it were closer to home. If another class was offered over a two or three day period I would definitely consider signing up again.
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