Glass Arts
Techniques in Soft Glass Torchwork: Floral and Foliage
The promise of spring and summer come alive on your beads with the application of flowers and leaves.
Meeting Times
- Sun, 4/21/2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sun, 4/21/2024
Closed
About
Learn how to create beads with soft glass and embellish them with flowers and foliage. The techniques and information you'll learn can be
used for other designs in beads or marbles.
Project
- The first half of the day will be spent making components. You'll make striped stringer for stems and leaves, petal canes for petals, and learn a fun and easy way to make stamen-cane murrini with filigrana.
- The afternoon will be spent applying the components that you made in the morning. You'll learn to layer and shape petals, leaves, and vines to achieve depth and style. You'll learn to apply the stamen-cane that you made in the morning as well as pre-made and cut murrini that will be provided to you in the class.
Materials
An $18 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers the use of studio tools and fuel,
and the cost of the soft glass rod and stringer.
- You are required to bring a minimum of 15 pre-dipped mandrels (middle or end dipped – your choice).
- Bring tools and colored soft glass rods you prefer.
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 gain from learning and reviewing best practices.
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.