The Bead Goes On: From beads to wearables (October)

In this 4-week course, students will learn all the basics of bead making in the flameshop as well as basic jewelry making skills. The first three classes will focus on getting comfortable on the torch, experimenting with the material, and learning how to bring their glass vision to life. We'll explore making basic seed beads, sculpture beads (fish, fungi, fruit, oh my!), and hollow beads.  In the final class, we will cover the process of taking beads from the mandrel to a wearable accessory. Together, we'll cover how to remove beads from their mandrel, clean them, and the basics of jewelry making with wire, cord, and other materials. By the end of this course, students can expect to be comfortable in the flameshop, have a general knowledge of bead making, and be able to create their very own jewelry ideas. 

This class is an intro class, so no previous glass or jewelry-making experience is necessary. Students will be encouraged to bring their own creative ideas for beads and jewelry, working with the instructor to turn their concepts into unique, handcrafted pieces.

What to Expect: Beadmaking requires a little practice at heat control with the torch to create successful beads. Students can anticipate making 2-6 successful pieces in this class, along with some failures, while also refining their skills in translating a specific object into glass. Clean-up time is included in the duration of class, and usually the last 20 minutes of class are dedicated to cleaning your workstation. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

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. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

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. Health and safety guidelines will be emailed to you upon registration

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 cancelled 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

• 4 Sessions: October 3 — October 24
  Friday, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm