Lampwork Glass Art: Holiday Ornaments (all levels)

Welcome to Lampwork Glass Art, where we're turning up the heat to create some incredible pieces! In this relaxed and hands-on class, we'll explore the basics of lampworking and send you home with something entrancing of your own making.

Get ready to play with fire and learn to make unique keepsakes and gifts for the holidays! In this beginner-friendly class I will demonstrate techniques for making several styles of borosilicate glass Christmas ornaments including icicles, teardrops, and candy canes. Students will learn how to melt and shape glass on an oxygen-propane torch and will have the opportunity to make several ornaments of their own. Ornaments will anneal in the kiln overnight and can be picked up the next day.

• In this 4 hour workshop we'll start with the do's and don'ts, throw on some safety glasses, and ensure our works space is good to go.
• Wondering what those colorful glass rods are all about? We'll take a look at the essential tools – torches, brass stamps, and shaping gear – that turn those rods into artistic wonders.
• Your instructor, local artist Emily Johnsen, will showcase the craft – melting, shaping, and transforming glass into some seriously awesome shapes.
• Then you’ll dive in! It's your turn to grab the torch (figuratively) and start crafting your own beginner-friendly project as you try the layering, mixing, shaping and stamping that will make your glass pieces stand out.
• Finally, you’ll find out how to cool and anneal your pieces properly to keep them looking fantastic.

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to hone your skills, this lampwork class is all about enjoying the process while crafting some impressive art. Let the fiery adventure begin!

Important stuff:

• No open toe shoes (anywhere in the facility)
  
• Do not wear clothing made from synthetic or synthetic blends. The synthetic fabric can burn vigorously, melt and produce skin burns.
• Long hair and beards should be securely tied back.
• Currently face masks are recommended but not required in the facility. A cotton cloth mask is safest around open flame. Your instructor will explain the safe use of face masks around torches.
• Upon completion of the class, Ideaworks members may be certified to use the lampworking station unsupervised during business hours.

We will provide:

• Eye protection
  
• Insulated sleeves
  
• All tools and materials for class projects

NOTE: This class DOES NOT qualify for the free one-month conditional membership.