Are you curious about the kiln Shop? In Kiln 1, you will gain a broad understanding of the vast possibilities of kilnformed glass exploring both fusing and casting techniques. You will learn how to cut sheet glass and work with a variety of other materials to melt and shape your designs creating an array of functional and decorative pieces.

Then, get a bit more dimensional with an introduction to cast glass. Using a found object, you will learn how to reproduce the object in glass. You will also gain an understanding of kiln programming and the properties of glass. No experience is necessary.

Ages 14+

Explore the versatility of powder printing, an exciting glass process that combines screenprinting techniques with finely ground glass powder to transfer imagery onto sheet glass. Inspired by Pittsburgh’s rich history of photographic silkscreen printing, this course invites artists of all backgrounds to experiment with imagery, pattern, layering, and repetition.

You’ll learn how to manipulate images using computer software, prepare artwork for screenprinting, and burn your own designs onto screens. From personal photographs to patterns and graphic imagery, you’ll explore techniques for creating multiples and building layered compositions with glass powder.

Projects will be limited in size to accommodate the available screens and kilns, but you’ll leave with the skills and knowledge to scale up your work and confidently use PGC equipment for larger projects independently.

No prior glass or screenprinting experience is necessary.

Dive into the fascinating world of plasma by exploring the art of creating plasma and neon filled panels using fused glass techniques, building on the process pioneered by Wayne Strattman (Luminglas) and further developed by Mark Ditzler.

In our kiln shop sessions, you'll master glass design and assembly, shaping glass with molds or fiber models, and sealing parts using specialized "solder glass" in the kiln — including use of the water jet cutter for sheet glass and laser cutter for intricate fiber patterns.

In the neon/plasma shop, learn about vacuum techniques, gas pressure, phosphors, and power supplies. Complete two panel projects and unravel the rarely explored path of flat panel plasma design.

Are you curious about the kiln Shop? In Kiln 1, you will gain a broad understanding of the vast possibilities of kilnformed glass exploring both fusing and casting techniques. You will learn how to cut sheet glass and work with a variety of other materials to melt and shape your designs creating an array of functional and decorative pieces.

Then, get a bit more dimensional with an introduction to cast glass. Using a found object, you will learn how to reproduce the object in glass. You will also gain an understanding of kiln programming and the properties of glass. No experience is necessary.

Ages 14+

Create sparkling glass pendants, earrings, and brooches while exploring a variety of glass fusing techniques. You’ll work with different types of fusible glass, including extra-sparkly dichroic glass, and learn how to incorporate fusible decals to add color, pattern, and personality to your designs.

The class will also introduce grinding and polishing techniques to refine your pieces, along with methods for attaching metal findings to transform your fused glass creations into wearable works of art. Experiment with different combinations of glass, color, and surface treatments to create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.

No prior jewelry-making or glass fusing experience is required.