Intermediate Techniques with Soft Glass: Focus on Murrini

Glass Arts

Intermediate Techniques with Soft Glass: Focus on Murrini

Create pictures in glass rods to incorporate into your beads or marbles.

 

Tuition Assistance and Other Policies


Sat, 4/13/2024

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Type:
Class, Has Prerequisite

Location:
Glass Arts Studio

Interests:
Glass Torchworking

About

Murrini are colored patterns or images made in glass cane that are revealed when the cane is cut into thin cross-sections. Infinite designs are possible from the simple circle or square to complex patterns or even portraits of people. 

This class gets you started with soft glass, and you'll learn techniques that will transfer to borosilicate glass. Techniques for applying murrini slices to beads and marbles will be discussed.

Details

You're encouraged to brink a snack or lunch for the class break. A microwave and refrigerator are available on the lower level.

Project

You'll use the torch and colored rod to build and pull two-three murrini canes. The instructor will demonstrate each design and you'll have time to make your own with assistance from the instructor, as desired.

Materials

  • A $30 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers the use of studio tools, the cost of multiple colors of COE 104 rod, and 12mm boro rods to be used as punties. You may have some rod left over to take home after class, depending on how quickly you work.
  • You're welcome to bring additional glass and materials like mandrels if you want to practice applying the murrini onto a base bead or into a marble.
  • You're encouraged to bring any tools according to your preference.

Prerequisites

  • This class is for intermediate students. You should have taken an introductory beads or marbles class.
  • Students with only borosilicate experience are welcome, but encouraged to try out soft glass at least once during open studio time before coming to class.

Class Policies

  • Ages 14 and up are welcome.
  • Wear close-fitting long-sleeve shirts and long pants of natural fibers. Stretch fabrics are prohibited.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes (preferably leather or cotton). 
  • Long hair should be tied back.

BARN Policies

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.

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