Duration

10am - 4:30pm (6.5 hours)

Requirements

Must be 14+ years old.
Ages 14 & 15 must be accompanied by an adult

About - Introduction to Borosilicate Glass

Curious about flameworking? Join us for a one day Introduction to Borosilicate Glass workshop, perfect for beginners wanting to explore the art of lampworking. Under the guidance of Elizabeth Welch, you will learn foundational techniques for working with borosilicate glass.

Morning session: Start by learning to build a clear gather and experiment with frit to create your first pendants. You will also have the option to attach premade loops or try crafting your own.

Afternoon session: Learn to build a gather using colour to create delicate leaves and flowers and attaching premade loops to finish your design

By the end of the workshop you will have hands-on experience with borosilicate glass, and new handmade pieces to take home.

Check out our other dates and glass workshops at amokuraglass.com

About the Artist

Visiting glass artist from the UK, Elizabeth Welch aims to bring a sense of realism to her Lampworked glass sculpture. Through her intricate and detailed sculptures, Elizabeth Welch has established herself creating stunning pieces that capture the fleeting beauty and essence of various animals.

Elizabeth’s artistic vision is enriched by the legacy of glassmaking. Combining classical methods and the vibrancy of modern glass art, it infuses her work with a sense of tradition with contemporary flair. This blend of influences not only defines the uniqueness of her creations but also reflects her commitment to honouring the heritage craft of lampworking while exploring its potential for innovation and expression.

Objective

Students will learn shop safety, be Introduced to the Flame working shop, tools, materials and techniques used in Flame working. Students will have the opportunity to apply those skills to create their very own using the techniques to shape and manipulate the glass. All glass creations are the student to keep at the end of the class.
Note: glass needs to cool down slowly in the kiln overnight and will be available for pickup the following day. We can organise to post you your projects at an additional fee if required

Coarse Goals

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to

1. Identify and avoid shop hazards.
2. Light and adjust flame setting on the bench top mounted torch.
3. Use heat, gravity and centrifugal forces to shape and manipulate the glass into their desired shapes.
4. Add a bail to a piece to form a pendant, creating a wearable glass form.
5. Apply coloured glass to clear rods in a variety of techniques.
6. Combine these skills to create different projects they get to keep at the end of the class

Prerequisites

No previous experience in glass or flame working required, class is open to all interested parties. Ages 14+

Materials & Supplies

All required materials and tools to complete the projects will be provided by the studio and included in the course fees. Students are asked to wear cotton or natural material clothing, long pants, and close toed shoes. Please bring a water bottle, and snacks/lunch to keep energy levels up!