Workshop Photos

Small imperfections can occur for many reasons and should not be unexpected. If the piece fails in processing for any reason (e.g., it breaks), you can come back and make another. Everyone should wear closed toe shoes!

1. This is intended to be a creative experience. The best results usually come from an open mind and the intention to create something unique.
2. I have a very large selection of glass. Attempts to reproduce a precise color scheme are often a barrier to creativity.
3. Your final work product is going to be good. I will make sure it is.
4. Small imperfections can occur for many reasons and should not be unexpected. If the piece fails in processing for any reason (e.g., it breaks), you can come back and make another piece.
5. Size and shape Limitation:
a. No round pieces.
b. Maximum dimensions: 8" x 12" or 5" x 15"
6. Projects need to be two layers thick or 6mm. Glass sheets are 3mm thick. If your piece is greater than 6mm it will not keep its dimensions when being fired.
7. You can easily get cut by the glass we will be using. Please use the cut-proof gloves I have available.
8. This is a multiple step process: (I complete the final two after you have completed the first.)
a. Design and assembly – this is what you will do in the workshop.
b. Glass fusion in the kiln – this takes about 24 hours.
c. Glass slumping or melting into your mold – this takes about 18 hours.
9. Basic Steps:
a. Choose the mold/shape you want your final piece to take.
b. Write down the dimensions of the mold you have selected for the project.
c. Spend some time thinking about your design. I am glad to help. I can tell you how best to achieve your design intention or how to come as close as possible. I know what works the best in this medium.
i. Look around at my pieces or on the internet for ideas.
ii. Do you want it to be more structured or organic?
iii. Contrast is important.
iv. Iridescence – do you want this to be a design element?
v. I like to work clear pieces into my designs. See me for examples.
d. Choose your base layer: transparent or opalescent. Do you want to allow light to pass through your piece or do you want it to be opaque? Look at my completed pieces for examples.
e. Cut your base piece to the dimensions of the mold you have selected. (You can do as much or as little glass cutting as you wish. I prefer to cut the full glass sheets myself.)
f. Your base layer is your canvas. With your design idea in mind, start to lay glass out on a table. Look at alternatives. Follow your instincts. Ask others their opinion.
g. Once you have decided what combination of glass you are going to use, it’s normal to fine- tune the selection as you begin to construct your piece.
h. When you are ready to start cutting glass see me and I will walk you through the process.
i. Glass should be cut as close to the exact dimensions intended. This eliminates gaps in the final work product.
j. Once your piece is completed (i.e., you have laid your design out on your base layer) each piece needs to be cleaned with alcohol and glued together before it can be placed in the kiln for firing.