In this two day workshop, students will learn the basics of making glass buttons. Day one will be focused on getting comfortable in the flame shop manipulating the glass while day two will be focused on cleaning, cold working and sewing on our buttons with button holes to match! Students are encouraged to bring in clothes to alter! We will finish off day two taking our lessons from sewing back into the flame shop to make more buttons!
What to Expect: Flameworking requires a little practice at heat control with the torch to create successful objects. Students can anticipate making many buttons of varying sizes, shapes, and levels of success. Buttons can take as few as 2 minutes to make but can easily be made more complicated based on the design. Topics covered will include making shank buttons on the mandrel, working on double mandrels to make two hole buttons, and various color applications. The key to success will be repetition. After demonstrations students will have time on the torch as well as with needle and thread to hone their skills.
While beadmaking, participants primarily engage in seated activities such as working with glass rods and torches. The environment can be bright and loud at times. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity.
Eligibility: No previous experience required. Open to ages 12 and up.
Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight then be carefully removed from the mandrels, so the students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work.
This is an in-person class taking place on-site at UrbanGlass.
School Notes:
Preparing for class
- It is recommended that students bring notebooks and water bottles to in person classes. All basic materials and supplies needed for the class will be provided. If students wish to use specific tools or materials not supplied in class they are responsible for obtaining these items themselves.
Studio Attire
- For your safety, protective eyewear must be worn at all times in all areas of the UrbanGlass Studio. We will provide appropriate eyewear for your use. Appropriate work clothes are also required. Flammable or synthetic fabrics, sandals and open-toe shoes are not allowed. Long hair must be tied back.
