Explore how traditional coldworking can be utilized in non-traditional and modern applications. Learn how to operate all of the equipment to cut, grind, drill, engrave, sandblast, and polish glass in this entirely cold process class. Learn techniques to strategize the best optical placement of cuts and gain experience using special adhesives to chemically bond glass segments together. Create unique works of glass art with interesting surface textures and shapes.

Collaborate with glass blowers in the hot shop to design colorful items then manipulate them to reveal layers of color with the lathe, sandblaster, or lap wheels. Combine found objects, cement, and glass. Then cut, laminate, and coldwork new and exciting shapes.  Leave with a foundational knowledge of coldworking techniques and understanding of the lamination process. Come away with new skills, fun projects, and inspiration for more complicated works.

Evening Open Studio Studios are open until 9:30PM for students to practice. Depending on the class, process, and techniques, this time might be highly suggested by instructors for students to use. In other classes, this time might be considered optional.

For more information, please review Summer Intensives.

Learn more about Chris Ross at saburodesign.com

Create your own distinctive glass goblet in this immersive two-day introductory workshop, combining both hot and cold glass techniques. In the first session, work in the hot shop under the guidance of skilled instructors to gather, color, and shape molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace, forming the foot and stem of your goblet.

In the second session, transition to the cold shop to etch and sandblast a pre-made top, adding personalized designs that make your vessel truly unique. Instructors will also guide you through cutting, gluing, and assembling your pieces to create a functional and striking final goblet.

This workshop is a great introductory experience in both hot and cold glass processes, resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece you’ll be proud to take home.

Ages 14+

With 60 years of experience and practice in the field of coldworking, František hopes to pass on the vast knowledge that he has acquired. He is coming from Czechia where coldworking has earned a long and strong tradition. In this class you will learn a step-by-step process to make a small glass sculpture from a solid block of glass and decorative, rich cutting to make patterns on blown vessel blanks. Together we will build a strong foundation for professional craftsmanship. The class will cover multiple approaches to shaping, sculpting, engraving, grinding, and polishing glass.

You will also learn how to assemble components using Ultraviolet Epoxy and properly set up and use different machines like horizontal flatting mill, vertical lathes, diamond saws, and belt sanders. With each machine there are specific and different grinding, smoothing, and polishing tools, materials, and processes. These tools include original Czech-made diamond, stone, and resin wheels. You will also be provided with information on how to design a perfect professional cold shop, including the necessary equipment.

No previous coldworking experience is required, although intermediate coldworkers are very welcome and may learn more than they have ever expected.

All students are welcome! Intermediate and advanced students will also be able to learn new skills and hone their existing skills.

Evening Open Studio

Studios are open until 9:30PM for students to practice. Depending on the class, process, and techniques, this time might be highly suggested by instructors for students to use. In other classes, this time might be considered optional.

For more information, please review Summer Intensives.

Spend an unforgettable and fun week this summer diving into the world of glass. This program is designed for teens in grades 6-12 (ages 12-19) to take over the Pittsburgh Glass Center studios. It gives students the rare hands-on opportunity to learn the many facets of glass in one of the top facilities in the country. Working with experienced instructors, students will rotate through all of the studios and explore glassblowing, flameworking, kilnforming, and coldworking. New this year, students will also connect glass and technology in the fabrication lab.

Please look over our Teen Boot Camp Policies and important information regarding scheduling and forms by clicking here: https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/teen-boot-camp-policies/

Required Forms

All registered students must complete our Teen Boot Camp Intake form. This form is presented during the registration process, and is required for all students prior to their first day of camp. Forms will ask for emergency contacts, known student allergies, and designated persons allowed to sign students out of camp.

Scholarships are available for all students! Scholarship Application 

New this year: tuition can also be paid in installments upon registration.

In this class we will explore layering transparent sheet glass to create rich color palettes and artwork of depth and character. This comprehensive kilnforming class is designed to inspire you, enhance your technical skills, challenge you to think critically about your work, and deepen your experience working with color in kilnforming. We will cover all aspects of Madison’s process of working with sources of inspiration, designing with analog and digital tools, cutting and assembly of compositions, and firing.

We will begin by designing and creating test pieces to explore possible outcomes and develop an understanding of how colors interact when layered. This foundation will guide our approach to subsequent projects that are well-considered and thoughtfully crafted. Throughout the course we will work one-on-one to strategize and tailor the techniques and process to fit your skills, style, and interests.

Discussion of firing schedules, finishing work in the cold shop, and strategies for presenting your work for display will round out the content. Outcomes will include test pieces valuable for future reference and at least one well-considered work that is brought to completion. We will also have the chance to create a simple custom-made stand for presenting this work.

The aim of this class is to be a lasting experience that provides you with simple yet powerful tools to support the pursuit of your unique visions in kilnformed glass efficiently, confidently, and to have fun while doing so.

This class is suited to a variety of levels of experience in kilnforming but a foundation of basic glass cutting skills will be highly advantageous. Digital design tools that will be used include Sketchbook (a free and accessible app available for most tablets) and Photoshop.

Evening Open Studio

Studios are open until 9:30PM for students to practice. Depending on the class, process, and techniques, this time might be highly suggested by instructors for students to use. In other classes, this time might be considered optional.

For more information, please review Summer Intensives.

Learn more about Morgan Madison at morganvanmadison.com

This two-week intensive* examines the relationship between the hot and cold shop. We will be focusing on and encouraging both exploration and refinement of form. Throughout the course you will move between studios, developing vessel forms, and advancing them through various surface and finishing techniques.

In the hot shop, you will focus on building technique and creating blank forms to further work in the cold shop. Demonstrations will cover various techniques, such as double overlay, Swedish overlay, stuff cups, powder application, and pattern making. Guided instruction will highlight bubble setup, heat control, timing, and intentionality. Using the 3D object to study form, color, and function.

Cold shop sessions will focus on equipment operation, punty removal, lathe work, and surface treatment. Using various cutting wheels and methods of surface finishing, students will explore texture, pattern, and optical effects. Designed for students with prior hot shop experience, this course supports technical growth, material awareness, and a deeper understanding of how form, surface, and color interact.

Students must be able to comfortably blow and cap a bubble. Participants are encouraged to bring a sketchbook and a desire to learn.

Evening Open Studio Studios are open until 9:30PM for students to practice. Depending on the class, process, and techniques, this time might be highly suggested by instructors for students to use. In other classes, this time might be considered optional.

*Class runs Monday through Saturday for the first week, and Monday through Friday for the second week. 

For more information, please review Summer Intensives.

Learn more about Chris Giordano at www.giostudio.com

Learn more about Cole Johnson at www.colejohnsonglass.com