What a Cup Can Teach Us

The cup is arguably our most iconic implement. Cups have been utilized for thousands of years for everything from quenching thirst, celebratory drinking, cultural ritual to storing valuables. They come in endless variations and presentations. In my own practice, I have always utilized the cup for advancing skill. The intimate scale and relatively quick time to produce make it the perfect object for this pursuit. More repetition = more feedback from the process which ultimately = more progress.

In this course we will use the cup as the focal point for technical enquiry. Individual progress will be the main objective. We will start with the simplest, most humble examples and focus on refinement. We will slowly build from there. Technically we will cover everything from posture, to proper bubble set-up, centering, trimming, the use of optic molds, how to make simple stems and feet, color application, the list goes on… 

Special consideration will be paid to mindset, more specifically how mental preparation and mental approach can contribute to our growth as glassworkers.

What to Expect: Class time will be split between demonstrations and practice in teams. The hot shop is a loud studio, and can get quite warm. Glassblowing takes repetition and practice - expect failures along with successes. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

Additional work time for intensive students: Students will also have access to additional hours in the hot shop, without instruction, on Tuesday - Friday from 5-8pm. Students must be able to work safely in the studio, and be able to set up their area without needing instruction. Students participating in student hours will need to be approved by the instructor and TA’s.

Eligibility: This is an intermediate level course, previous glassblowing experience is required. Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight, 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. Health and safety guidelines will be emailed to you upon registration. 

Class Schedule

• 5 Sessions: July 9 — July 13
  Tuesday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm