What Happens at a Fused Glass Workshop? A Beginner’s Guide
Thinking about trying a fused glass workshop but not quite sure what to expect?
One of the things I hear most often at the start of a workshop is, “I’m not very creative!” Usually, by the end of the session, that same person is amazed by what they’ve made.
My fused glass workshops take place in my studio on Hayling Island, Hampshire. They’re deliberately kept small, with a maximum of just three people, so there’s plenty of individual help and absolutely no previous experience is needed.
What happens when you arrive?
We’ll start with a chat about what you’d like to make. You don’t need to arrive with a finished design in mind - I have lots of examples and ideas in the studio to help inspire you.
I’ll introduce you to the different types of glass we can use and show you some of the techniques involved in glass fusing. Depending on the workshop, you’ll learn how to cut and shape glass and how to use materials such as frit, stringers and powders to add colour, texture and detail.
Then comes the fun part - creating your own piece!
Do I need to know how to cut glass?
Not at all.
I’ll show you how to cut glass safely and you can have a practice before starting your piece. I’m always there to help, so if there’s a particular shape that’s proving tricky, you won’t be left struggling with it.
Glass can sometimes have ideas of its own, but that’s part of the fun!
What can I make?
That depends on the workshop you choose.
I offer a range of sessions, from introductory and half-day workshops through to full-day and more specialised workshops. You might create something inspired by the coast, a colourful piece for your home, garden art or something completely personal to you.
Because the groups are so small, there’s plenty of opportunity to make your piece your own rather than everyone producing exactly the same thing.
What happens to my glass afterwards?
This is where the magic really happens.
Once you’ve finished your creation, it stays with me to be fired in my kiln. During firing, the separate pieces of glass soften and fuse together to become one finished piece.
Some projects require more than one firing, particularly if the glass needs to be shaped or slumped after the initial fuse.
Opening the kiln after a firing is still one of my favourite parts of working with glass -even after all these years!
What should I bring?
You don’t need to bring any materials or equipment. Everything you need to create your glass is included, along with refreshments.
The main thing is to wear comfortable clothes, but please have covered legs, and closed-toe shoes for safety reasons. And perhaps don’t wear your very best outfit - glass workshops are creative places!
Is a fused glass workshop suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely.
Most of the people who come to my workshops have never worked with glass before. You don’t need to be artistic and you don’t need any special skills.
My aim is for the workshops to be relaxed, friendly and enjoyable - and for you to go home knowing you’ve created something completely unique with your own hands.
Fancy having a go?
My fused glass workshops are held in my studio on Hayling Island, Hampshire, within easy reach of Portsmouth, Chichester and the surrounding area.
I’d love to welcome you to the studio and introduce you to the wonderful world of fused glass.
Amanda x
Fusion Art Glasswork
Hayling Island, Hampshire
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