Learn the fundamentals of glass blowing in this four hour exploratory class. Develop a core knowledge of this ancient art form through hands on experience with authentic tools and equipment. Class always begins with verbal safety instruction, followed by a live demonstration. Then participants are split into groups to execute dry runs and make practice pieces. By the end, students will create a total of two (2) finished pieces and can participate as much as they feel comfortable. Everyone’s first piece is an ornament- to gain blowing experience, and the second they are given the option to make another ornament or a sculptural piece (like a paperweight or flower). We have a variety of frit (crushed up glass) to choose from to personalize your color combination.
Your creations need to be annealed (cooled down slowly) in a kiln, and will be available for pick up the following day, or can be shipped for a small fee.
Safety glasses are mandatory and will be provided. Please do NOT wear open toed shoes or sandals.
The following are recommendations, but not required to participate in class:
Long pants, and a long sleeve shirt can help shield from heat.
Natural fiber clothes are best (cotton, linen, etc.)
Hair that can obstruct your view is encouraged to be tied back.
Students are advised to bring their own water, however cold bottled water will be provided.
Pictures and videos are encouraged.
Pros : This class was such an interesting learning experience! The instructor was so knowledgeable and explained all about the equipment and methods being used. Even when working with molten glass, it felt safe and controlled, and it was really cool to be able to have so much hands on experience.
Pros : Wonderful introduction to glass blowing. It exceeded our expectations for a 4 hour class. Fun, informative and eye opening intro to this unique art form. We left feeling like glass artists!
Cons : Add a brief overview of frit type & selection (ie, transparent versus opaque and how colors may change during firing)
Other Thoughts : We will be back for another family experience!
Pros : So much positives to the class, the instructors were great! They explained each step before you started working. Then helped and were with you from start to finish on each piece created. They kept the class moving and fun.
Cons : The only con I can think of was, wow, it gets warm. But if you dress in light weight clothes. Drink water. Stand by the air conditioners when it isn’t your time to work on a piece. All so worth the little bit of discomfort.
Pros : Roy & Izzy were phenomenal. They had the perfect blend of safety, teaching, and humor. They were incredibly patient and committed to making our glassworks great, despite my failures. To listen to them, everything went as planned (even though I know it didn't!).
I liked the class structure. Four hours sounds like a lot of time, but the time flew by. Also, I didn't feel rushed. It was nice to have a set project (ornament) and then a personal choice.
10/10. I would recommend the class to anyone remotely interested in glass blowing and would probably even take it again myself.
Cons : No cons. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We can't say enough good things about Roy and Izzy. They made the class enjoyable and memorable.
Other Thoughts : 1. Consider adding to the online class descriptions about what you could bring, e.g., a water bottle. You provided water (which was awesome), but -- having never been in a hot shop -- we were uncertain if we could bring our own.
2. During the second exercise, it would be nice if the teacher or student told the rest their intention before they started. (Obviously, only if they're comfortable.) Then, as you're watching others, you can better understand why they're doing what they're doing.
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