Glass Arts
Techniques in Soft Glass Torchwork: Dazzling Effects with Silver
Apply silver leaf and foil to create reactions and sparkle to your beads.
Meeting Times
- Sun, 3/17/2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Sun, 3/17/2024
Closed
About
Venetian beads are one of the most popular beads because of the way they glow from within, often appearing to be made with gold. You'll use Effetre soft glass with a COE of 104 as you learn the impact of silver foil:
- As a surface application for organic results
- To create amazing textures and reactions to the colored glass beneath it
- To make silvered stringer to add to cut shapes impacting the overall bead design
Materials
A materials fee of $22, included in the price of this class, will provide fuel, tools, soft glass rod and stringer, and silver leaf and foil.
- You are required to bring a minimum of 15 pre-dipped mandrels (middle or end dipped – your choice).
- You are encouraged to bring any tools and colored soft glass rods in addition to what's provided for this class.
Prerequisites
At least one introductory bead class is required.
- Advanced beginners and intermediate-level torchworkers should know the basics of forming and shaping beads, and the application of stringers and dots.
- Advanced students will learn best practices for making Venetian beads.
Class Policies
- Ages 14 and up are welcome.
- Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required in the Glass Studio at all times. Long sleeves and clothing of 100% cotton is required to prevent burns. Long hair should be tied back.
BARN Policies
- View BARN's Cancellation and Refund Policy
- 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.
- Makerspaces like BARN can be noisy and cluttered, smell strongly, and have bright or flickering lights. We try to make accommodations when requested; the earlier you contact us, the more likely we can help. Please email accessibility@bainbridgebarn.org to find out more or request an accommodation.
- For those who might need physical assistance, learn more about BARN's Companion Program.
Instructors or Guides
Michele Benson
Michele has a bachelor's degree in studio art from Potsdam State College in New York and a master’s in social work from Portland State University. After many years in child welfare, Michele retired and opened Sandhill Glass Studio where she taught lampworking (torchwork) for more than 10 years until she moved to Washington state. She has taught lampworking (torchwork) at the Oregon Institute of Technology and Klamath Community College, and has written articles for Soft Flex Jewelry Company. Michele is a long-time member of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers and is currently a member of the Florida Glass Dragons. When not in her studio, Michele volunteers for the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County and for the Kitsap Humane Society.
