Bend, Slump, Drape

Using heat and gravity, glass can be shaped over and into molds in a kiln to create an almost endless variety of forms from functional to sculptural. Moving away from commercial molds, this class will look at various way’s students can fabricate molds to create personalized forms in glass. Using an assortment of Bullseye colored sheet glass, frits & powders (crushed glass) and thin canes and float (window) glass, students will create fused and non-fused glass shapes to slump, bend and drape into and over their molds. The possibilities are endless when creating your own molds. Cold working techniques will be introduced where necessary to complete projects. This class is suitable for those with no experience as well as those who wish to widen their kiln working skills.

What to Expect: 

Students will come away with two-three projects and  the skills to cut, assemble, and fuse glass. Class time will alternate between demonstration and work time. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

Kilnforming work involves a mix of seated and standing activities, including preparing glass pieces for firing, and loading and unloading the kiln. A particulate respirator mask is required when working with fine glass powders or unloading kilns after firing and would be provided for you if needed. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Additional work time for intensive students: Students will also have access to additional hours in the mold and flat 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: No previous experience required. No experience is needed. Open to beginners as well as intermediate-level students looking to  refine their skills 

Open to ages 12 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to be fused in the kiln and 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. 

We recommend registering for classes early to reserve your spot! We base materials, and teacher needs off of student enrollment. Early registration not only guarantees your spot in class, but also helps to ensure the class will run. Classes with low enrollment may be canceled within two weeks of the start date of class. Contact our Registrar of Education, Ari Eshoo, at arianna@urbanglass.org if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

Class Schedule

• 5 Sessions: July 22 — July 26
  Tuesday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm