Description
Sunday, September 27 | 10:30 AM–12:30 PM
$200 per person
Limited to 4 participants ~ If all four slots are not filled at least seven days prior to the scheduled date, the class will be canceled.
Why does a handmade drinking glass cost so much more than the ones you find in restaurants and department stores? The answer is the process, and in this workshop, you’ll experience it firsthand.
A traditional handblown cup isn’t made by one person. It takes a coordinated team of two, three, or even four people working together, each playing an important role in bringing a single piece to life. During this workshop, you’ll discover what goes into making a drinking glass while taking part in every step of the process.
We’ll begin with a 30-minute introduction to the hot shop, safety procedures, and a live demonstration as Dominique creates a cup from start to finish. You’ll learn how each team member contributes and see the process before stepping into it yourself.
Then, each participant will take a turn as the gaffer—the lead glassblower making their own cup—while the rest of the class works together as the shop crew or “assistants”. Everyone will rotate through the supporting roles, helping open furnace doors, bringing punties, flattening bottoms, bench blowing, paddling lips, and assisting one another just as a professional glassblowing team would.
Each participant will choose one color from our soft glass color palette for their cup, creating a functional piece to take home as a reminder of the experience. Glass does need to cool down slowly in the kiln and will not be ready to take home that day.
The demonstration cup made by Dominique at the beginning of class will be raffled off at the end of the workshop, giving one lucky participant the chance to take home two handmade cups.
Workshop Schedule
30 minutes: Introduction, safety, demonstration, and discussion
~ 1 hour: Hands-on team glassblowing, with each participant taking a turn as the gaffer (approximately 15 – 20 minutes per cup)
The remaining time is for wrap-up, questions, and discussion
Important Information
This is an adults-only (18+) workshop. Every participant must register individually, even if attending with a spouse, partner, friend, or family member.
By registering, you acknowledge that you are voluntarily choosing to participate, understand the nature of the activities involved, and are enthusiastic about taking part in all portions of the workshop.
The workshop involves moving throughout an active glass studio, standing for portions of the class, working in a warm environment, and participating in hands-on hot shop activities.
Required Clothing & Safety
Safety glasses are required. We have pairs available to borrow, or you’re welcome to bring your own.
Leather gloves will be provided for use in the hot shop.
Participants must wear:
- Closed-toe shoes
- Pants that are knee-length or longer
- A cotton shirt
Anyone who does not meet these clothing requirements will not be able to participate in the hands-on hot shop portion of the workshop.
Please bring water and arrive well-fed and well-rested.
Because class size is limited to four participants, registrations are non-refundable and may not be rescheduled.
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Over the years, we’ve found that workshops are the most enjoyable when everyone genuinely wants to be there. This workshop involves active participation, cheering one another on, asking questions throughout the process, and spending time in all three areas of the studio. We hope you are excited to participate and look forward to having you join us.
