We offer comprehensive classes in beginner, intermediate and advanced techniques.

Click here for our Scheduled classes or visit our Events Calendar.

Students learn how to make and decorate glass beads using a hot glass technique called Lampworking. Lampworking is the technique of melting glass rods in a small flame until the glass becomes molten. At this point it can be manipulated and formed into bead shapes. The glass is then cooled at a slow rate.

The type of glass used is an Italian made soda lime (soft) glass (Efettre) most commonly called Murano glass. We use either a Minor Burner or Hot Head torch to teach with.

Class fees include all materials and use of safety glasses, tools and equipment. Fees vary according to teacher (local or visitor), length of the class and material used. For more information, please contact us.

Beadmaking for Beginners

This two day class gives you both the necessary information and basic skills to start making beads on your own.

You will learn about safety, equipment, materials, the different types of glass and the importance of annealing your beads. Bead shaping and heat control at the different flame levels will be emphasized. Students will learn how to pull stringers and simple decorative cane. Raking, feathering and all sorts of basic bead ornamentation will be done. You will make simple but beautiful beads using dots applied with a stringer.

Setting up a home studio will be discussed, and individual attention is available to assist you in making choices that will work for your particular situation.

The class size is 4 people max. No prior experience required. Lets just have some fun melting glass! The class is and presented on 2 consecutive days over scheduled week-ends from 09:00 until 15:00; light lunch and refreshments served.

NB! Payment up front to reserve your seat.

 

Intermediate beadmaking

This one day class (10:00 until 14:00) is for students who have had at least twelve hours of beginner classes and want to try new techniques to improve their skills as a bead maker. The intermediate class focus is on encasing techniques.

Some of the examples of what might be included in this type of class are the refinement of basic skills, making vine cane, perfecting bead shapes, encasing, airtrapping, surface manipulation, florals, stringer control, goldstone frit, advanced shaping methods and use of foils/leaf.

Advanced

For experienced beadmakers who want to get a step ahead with intricate designs, making Murrini and using Silvered glass.  This is a one day class, 10:00 until 14:00.

 

Guest Teachers

Classes by guest teachers as and when available

 

HOT TIP!

Please consider reading one or more of the following books before you attend a class, to familiarize yourself with the terms and process of glass beadmaking: (This helps a lot!)

Making Glass Beads by Cindy Jenkins
The Complete book of Glass Beadmaking Kimberly Adams
Passing the Flame by Corina Tettinger

All classes are taught as "hands on" workshops. Each student will be provided with all materials required during the class. Didymium safety glasses, tools and torch for use during the class remains the property of Glass & Fire. 

Please wear natural fibre clothing to classes and the studio. Bring yourself and your desire to learn about hot glass!

 

 

Registration and Payment

The first step in registering for a class is to email us at info@glassandfire.co.za, please specify the dates you are interested in and the number of persons. There might not always be a space available on the dates you choose. (we can only accommodate 4 people per class)

You can also phone us with the class / dates you are interested in. We will then give you the full detail on deposits, payment and directions.

A non-refundable deposit will confirm your booking for the class. If you are unable to attend the class, the deposit can be applied towards enrolment in another class at a later date. If the class is cancelled due to insufficient registration, we will notify you as soon as possible, and refund your deposit, or apply it towards another class.

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Instruction of advanced techniques @ R180.00 per Hour

Torch time with instruction - R150.00 per hour