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Pittsburgh Glass Center



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Explore Coldworking!

$1,050 MEMBER PRICE: $1,050

with František Janák

Calendar Next session starts Jun 29, 2026 at 9 am, runs for 1 week

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.

Full Course

Fires of Creation: A Journey in Beads, Chains, and Fusion Spark Design

$1,050 MEMBER PRICE: $1,050

with Ghislaine Sabiti

Calendar Next available session starts Jun 29, 2026 at 9 am, runs for 1 week

This class introduces students to the fundamentals of flameworking with borosilicate glass chain fusing. Learn to create colorful, expressive glass beads by mastering torch safety, shaping, and surface decoration techniques. Explore the process of making strong, artistic glass chain links using methods such as the parallel rod technique and surface texturing. Perfect for beginners and intermediate flame workers, this class offers hands-on practice and creative exploration to build your skills and confidence in glass jewelry making.

Discover the vibrant world of glass art in this hands-on, multi-session class where creativity meets craftsmanship. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to build intermediate skills, this immersive course offers step-by-step guidance to create stunning glass jewelry from creative patterns, chain, and fusing.

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 Ghislaine Sabiti at www.ghislainesabiti.com

New Beginnings in Hot Glass

$1,050 MEMBER PRICE: $1,050

with Jon Sirockman

Calendar Next available session starts Jun 29, 2026 at 9 am, runs for 1 week

This is an introduction to glassblowing, no prior experience in the hot shop is needed! We will learn the basics of gathering glass independently of the instructors, moving through the studio, shaping, and reheating the glass to create glass sculptures and vessels that will be solely your own.

We will cover safety and proper use of studio equipment and tools, how to create solid shapes, and then move into breathing life into the glass, concentrating on simple drinking vessels, and the basics of shaping more advanced pieces. This five-day class will set the foundation for you to take more advanced classes in the future.

This class is for beginners who have no experience in the hot shop. If you have had some or limited experience, that is alright. We will be using teambuilding and skill drills to establish a solid foundation in glass.

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 Jon Sirockman at https://www.instagram.com/sirockman_glass/?hl=en

Pâte de Verre: New Approaches to an Ancient Technique with Tali Grinshpan

$1,050 MEMBER PRICE: $1,050

with Tali Grinshpan

Calendar Next session starts Jun 29, 2026 at 9 am, runs for 1 week

Experiment and explore non-traditional methods of working with Pâte de Verre in this five-day class. You will experiment and learn how to create a wide range of objects without making plaster silica molds. We will make both flat and three-dimentional objects, investigate different possible results, and discover how to achieve artistic and aesthetic goals using glass paste.

We will explore different possibilities of working with this medium, both on its own and in mixed media. We will test combining other materials like metals and botanicals. And lastly, we will discuss firing schedules as well as finishing and coldworking options.

This week will be filled with experimentation, fun, and discovery.

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 Tali Grinshpan at www.taligrinshpan.com

Full Course

Make-It-Now: Pickle

$30 MEMBER PRICE: $30
Calendar Next available session starts Jul 3, 2026 at 6 pm
8 additional sessions through Jul 3, 2026
Fire up the torch, shape molten glass, and get dill-lighted by glass. In this quick and exciting flame shop experience, you’ll work closely with a skilled artist to gather and shape molten glass into a quirky pickle using a 3,000°F torch. Finish it with a glass loop to make it a gorgeous gherkin pendant or keep it as a tiny pickle sculpture.

Make-It-Now experiences offer a quick hands-on introduction to the magic of glassmaking. In the flame shop, you’ll work one-on-one with a skilled local artist at a 3,000° tabletop torch. In about 20 minutes or less, you’ll work together to heat, shape, color, and craft your glass item. Perfect for beginners, these short experiences give a taste of the excitement, skill, and artistry that goes into working with glass in a supportive, guided setting.

Ages 8+

Adult supervision is required for any child under 14 years old.

Due to the nature of hot glass, items cannot be taken home the same day they are created. All items made in the flame shop must go through an annealing process to slowly cool the glass. Items are available for pick-up after 5 days. Shipping can be arranged on site the day of your activity.

Engraved and Embossed Glasses

$95 MEMBER PRICE: $95
Calendar Next available session starts Jul 5, 2026 at 1:30 pm

You bring the creativity, we’ll supply the glass. In this introductory workshop, you’ll personalize your own beer mug, wine goblet, or drinking glass while gaining hands-on experience with professional cold shop equipment. Work with a skilled artist and explore sandblasting, carving, etching, polishing, and dremeling to make your glass totally yours.

 

Ages 14+

 

Sculpted Glass Mushrooms

$135 MEMBER PRICE: $135
Calendar Next available session starts Jul 5, 2026 at 5 pm

Step into a whimsical world of molten magic. In this introductory workshop, you’ll gather glass from the 2,100°F furnace and add color. Then twist, pull, and sculpt it into playful glass mushrooms.

This workshop is an engaging, hands-on introductory experience in hot glass sculpting. Each participant will craft two unique mushrooms, perfect for display, gifting, or adding a magical glass touch to any plant or space.

 

Ages 14+

 

Due to the nature of hot glass, your items will be available for pickup 5 days after your activity.

Foundations of Goblet Making

$1,050 MEMBER PRICE: $1,050

with Anthony Toomey

Calendar Next session starts Jul 6, 2026 at 9 am

In this five-day class we will explore the foundations of goblet making in the Venetian style. We will start with the most fundamental ideas of cup making and steadily grow in complexity throughout the class. From a simple tumbler to larger ornamental goblets. We will focus on working and directing a team, understanding the importance and roles of gaffer/assistants, and the timing and process of assembling cups in an effective manner.

 

This class is best suited for individuals with some experience in glass that are interested in learning about goblet making in the Venetian style. Students should be able to gather effectively and understand the basics of glassblowing.

 

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 Anthony Toomey at anthonytoomeyglass.com

 

Full Course




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