The Shape of Glass: An Introduction to Kiln Casting

Discover the creative possibilities of kiln-cast glass in this six-week, hands-on workshop. Whether you're new to glass or looking to expand your skills, this course offers a practical introduction to one of the most versatile kilnforming techniques.

Learn the fundamentals of mold making, glass selection, firing schedules, annealing, and finishing as you create cast glass works ranging from relief tiles to small scale vessels and sculptural forms. Explore open-face and lost-wax casting while discovering how mold materials, glass thickness, texture, and form influence the process and finished piece.

Through demonstrations and hands-on studio work, you'll develop your own projects while building confidence with the casting process. Cold working techniques, grinding and polishing, will be introduced to finish and enhance your glass works and kiln loading, safety, and troubleshooting will also be covered.

By the end of the workshop, you will have completed a series of individual kiln-cast glass works and gained the technical skills and confidence to continue exploring this exciting medium. 

What to Expect: In this class, you will work with wax models, pour refractory molds, and create kiln-formed glass pieces. Most students complete one or two objects, each up to 1 inch thick and 4 inches high. 

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. 

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.

Eligibility: No experience required. Open to ages 14 and up. 

Pick-up: Students may have to return after the last day of class for any work fired during the last class. 

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

• Beginner / All Levels | 6 Sessions: March 10 — April 14
  Wednesday, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm