Want to try something new? In just 3 hours, you can make beautiful glass beads and enter the mystical and ancient world of lampworking. This clinic will introduce you to the art of safely flameworking soft glass. You will learn to melt glass rods, wrap molten glass around thin steel rods (mandrels), and create basic beads. After exploring various surface decorations, you will produce colorful treasures that you can turn into jewelry.
3 hours, plus 1 hour complimentary studio time within 30 days
$75, includes all materials and equipment
When 2 to 4 students sign up together, each receives a $10 refund
Now that you've gotten a taste of working with glass, you know there's so much more to learn. We will focus on expanding your skills, improving your heat control, and experimenting with new techniques. This clinic spreads 9 hours of demonstrations and practice over 3 sessions.
9 hours, plus 2 hours complimentary studio time within 30 days
$210, includes all materials and equipment
When 2 to 4 students sign up together, each receives a $20 refund
All classes are held at our safe and beautiful studio. Click here for our location and directions to the studio.
Instructors:
Most classes are taught by Vicki Schneider, the studio's founder. Learn more about Vicki. We invite top instructors to teach at the studio once a year, typically in the fall. We have been honored to host Loren Stump (2010) and Bronwen Heilman (2011). In 2012 Emilio Santini will be teaching and in 2013 we will host Kristen Frantzen Orr.
Let us know whom you would like us to invite in the future.
Age Requirements
Participants in group classes must be at least 16 years of age. Younger students will be considered on an individual basis and may require parental supervision when working in the studio.
Reserving a seat
Seats are held upon receipt of all class-related fees. Full payment must be received at least 7 days before the first class. We accept PayPal, money orders, gift certificates, and personal checks.
Complimentary studio time
To help students practice what they've learned, anyone who completes a class at Expressive Glass will receive complimentary studio rental time. Complimentary time may only be used by the person who took the class and must be used within one month of completing the class. Refer to class details for further information.
Cancellation by participants
Cancellation within 36 hours of the class will result in a 50% cancellation fee
CancellationsbyExpressive Glass
Expressive Glass reserves the right to cancel, combine, or reschedule classes and workshops, or to change class instructors when necessary.
If Expressive Glass cancels, reschedules a class or workshop, or changes instructors for any reason, all registered participants will be informed as soon as possible and extended the opportunity to transfer to another class.
NOTE: If a participant chooses not to attend a rescheduled class,
Expressive Glass will fully refund the tuition and fees by check within 30 days of the
cancellation.
NOTE: Because beads must cool gradually in a kiln (anneal), students' work will not be available for pickup until the day after the class. Beads can be shipped for $5.
General Class Information
Open Torch
Expressive Glass holds open torch hours as indicated in our calendar, with additional hours by appointment. Anyone who has completed a class at the studio and any lampworker who can demonstrate the ability to work safely and independently with minimal supervision are welcome.
Dress in layers. Plan for Buffalo weather. To provide adequate ventilation, windows may be open and the heating and air conditioning unit may not keep the studio at an ideal temperature. Please wear 80-100% cotton or wool clothing (synthetics melt if touched by hot glass), tie back long hair, wear closed toe shoes, and no loose jewelry. Long artificial nails may pose a hazard for beginners.
Food & drink
Participants are encouraged to keep themselves hydrated. Please bring your own water or other non-alcoholic beverages. There are several delis, grocery stores, and restaurants nearby.
The studio has a small refrigerator and microwave which students and renters are welcome to use.
Parking
The studio has 10 complimentary parking spots right outside our door in our
Fun Night Out Private class for 3-4 friends or family
Looking for something fun and memorable to do with a group of your friends? This is also a great activity for families to share (ages 12 or above with parent present).
Why not put on a pair of goggles, light a torch, and learn to create your own beautiful glass beads? To add to your fun, you may bring some refreshments to share after the class in our lounge. The fee for this event is $65 per person for 3-4 participants.
Select a date from our calendar or contact us to schedule a convenient time. We are happy to conduct classes days or evenings, weekdays or weekends
3 hours, plus 1 hour complimentary studio time within 30 days
You may bring your own snacks, wine, beer and pop for a 1-hour celebration following the class
$65 per person, includes all materials and equipment
NOTE: If a participant chooses not to attend a rescheduled class, 
