3 hours
Workshops
This two-and-a-half hour workshop is designed to give you a taste of glass cutting and fusing using glass cutters, running pliers and nipping pliers to cut your shapes. We will also talk about frits and murrine, how they are made and how best to use them in our panels. Fusing methods with Italian sheet glass and accessories are part of the class. Students will experience using tools, techniques and methods to nip, score and cut glass. The shapes can then be arranged on sheet glass to create semi-transparent floral designs and patterns. Small copper rings will be fused in between the layers of glass to make a hanging loop.
During this 'taster' lesson, students will have the chance to make two light catchers that will be kiln fired and either posted to the student when complete, or available for collection from Hidden Gallery. The firing process can take many hours due to the need to use programs with the kiln: not only does the kiln have to go through a series of temperatures and 'hold patterns' but aslo, as the kiln cools, these 'soak' temps beomce even more important.
NB: Photos are examples of possibilities however the glass accessories may vary and will depend on what is available on the day.
Time allocation: 2.5 hours
Level of Difficulty: Beginner
Kit / Workshop Materials Inclusions:
- *All materials needed to create your light catchers
- *Use of cutting and shaping tools
- *Glass sheets and glass accessories
- *Firing service
Details of kit / workshop materials
Students will select coloured/clear glass sheet background and glass accessories - millefiore, stringers, frit glue and tacking material. Use of glass cutting tools and equipment, kiln firing and annealing. Each student will be provided with PPE and taught safe handling methods (glove and safety lenses)
Pre-requisite skills: Nil
Special Workshop Conditions: Completion of light catchers will occur after firing.
Students to bring: Protective clothing, long sleeve shirt, closed in shoes, long hair to be tied back, drink bottle - note book and pencil for note taking.
Details of kit / workshop materials
Students will select lantern colour: black/white as well as coloured/clear glass sheet and background glass accessories such as millefiore, stringers and frit. Each student will be provided with PPE and taught safe handling methods (glove and safety lenses). Specialised glues and tacking materials will also be used to hold your design pieces in place prior to firing.
The firing will be undertaken following the workshop as each cycle of the kiln generally only fits 8 panels (the work of 2 students) and firing schedules can take up to 23 hours. Once your glass panel inserts have been fired you can elect to have them posted out to you or to collect them from Hidden Gallery. You will be instructed on how to install the panels into your lantern during the class.
Pre-requisite skills: Nil
Students to bring: Protective clothing, long sleeve shirt, closed in shoes, long hair to be tied back, drink bottle - note book and pencil for note taking.