Introduction to Lampworked Sculpture - Icicles

Use a torch and deck your halls with icicles.

Meeting Times

Sat, 11/4/2023 3:00:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Sat, 11/4/2023

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About

Make several torchworked glass icicles in different styles using several techniques. Discussion will include production work for sales vs. individually made items.

Lampwork and torchwork both refer to the same process in which a torch or lamp is used to melt glass. Once molten, the glass is shaped by blowing, tools, or hand movements. It was more commonly called lampwork when oil lamps were used. This class will use borosilicate glass as it's easier to work with for beginners, but the techniques taught can transfer to soft glass, and any variations needed for soft glass will be discussed.

You'll learn and practice creating small gathers, flattening, pulling boro stringers, applying stringers, controlled twisting of glass, creating hooks, building, and using specialty shaped rod.

Materials

A materials fee of $45, included in the price of the class, covers everything you need for the class, including use of studio tools, specially shaped clear boro, clear boro for punits, and a sampling of additional colors from which to choose.
You're encouraged to bring any scrap boro you may want to use, as well as any tools you are more comfortable working with.

Prerequisites

This class is intended for beginner and intermediate students who have taken at least one introductory class. You should know the basics of safely lighting the torch, turning it off, and melting small gathers to make beads or marbles. More advanced students are welcome, as well.

Class Policies

Ages 14 and up are welcome.

BARN Policies

View BARN's current COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available. Fill out the application before registering.
For those who might need physical assistance, learn more about BARN's Companion Program.

Instructors or Guides

Laura Arns

Although she's a computer scientist by day, Laura Arns has been working with glass in various ways for more than 20 years during her free time. As a lampworker, she is somewhat unusual because she hasn't specialized but instead works with both borosilicate and soft glass to create beads, marbles, blown ornaments, sculptures, goblets, and more. She particularly enjoys collaborative projects with artists and artisans who work in other mediums. Over the years, she's had the opportunity to learn from numerous well-known lampworkers. A former college professor, she's looking forward to more teaching in BARN's Glass Arts Studio.