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Pittsburgh Glass Center



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Kiln 1: Fusing and Casting

$540 MEMBER PRICE: $540
Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 9:30 am, runs for 8 weeks
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.

Class does not meet on 3/5.

Ages 14+

Neon 101: Introduction to Neon

$495 MEMBER PRICE: $495

with Percy Echols

Calendar Next session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 9:30 am, runs for 8 weeks
Discover the art of Neon Bending as we delve into the world of soda lime (soft) glass tubing. This hands-on class will equip you with essential techniques using a range of specialized tools to heat and shape the glass, enabling you to craft your very own neon sign or captivating sculpture! Throughout the course, you'll be guided through tutorials that cover glass bending, pattern design, wiring, and installation. Witness the mesmerizing process of filling a glass tube with gas to bring forth the captivating glow of light. Unleash your creativity and illuminate your world with the magic of neon! No experience necessary.

Additional Class Materials Fee: This course requires a blow hose assembly kit. If students need to purchase: Kits are available for purchase on site the first day of class for $40.

Class does not meet 3/5.

Ages 16+

Full Course

Hot Glass 1

$680 MEMBER PRICE: $680
Calendar Next session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 12:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks

PGC 1 Learn to blow glass now.

 

In this introductory class, learn to gather clear molten glass from the furnace and shape it into various forms, from paperweights to simple blown shapes, such as cups and bowls.

 

Instruction focuses on a team approach to glassblowing, with an emphasis on safety, proper tool use, basic techniques, and materials. Youll never drink from a glass again without appreciating the energy and detail that went into making it. No experience is required.

 

You may also wish to take this class a second time in order to continue to develop and refine basic skills before moving on to Hot Glass 2. Each time you take it, your skill level, confidence, and passion for glass will grow.

 

Class tuition includes 2 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

 

Class does not meet on 3/5.

 

Ages 14+

Full Course

Introduction to Stained Glass

$550 MEMBER PRICE: $550
Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 1 pm, runs for 8 weeks
1 additional session on Jan 22, 2026

PGC 1 In this introductory class, you will learn the basics for working with flat colorful glass such as cutting, grinding, foiling, and soldering. You'll explore the famous Tiffany method of construction and work with provided patterns to create a finished stained glass panel ready for display. No experience necessary. This class is designed for beginners, and is a prerequisite for Intermediate Stained Glass.

 

Class tuition includes 2 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

 

Multiweek classes do not meet the week of 3/1-3/7.

 

Ages 14+

Neon: Next Steps

$495 MEMBER PRICE: $495

with Percy Echols

Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 1 pm, runs for 8 weeks
Take your neon skills to the next level in this follow-up to Neon 101. This hands-on class is designed to refine your technique, improve control, and develop your neon art through troubleshooting. You'll build confidence by practicing and improvising with fundamental bends including L-bends, U-bends, drops, and rises while learning how to adjust and correct mistakes along the way.

Beyond bending, this course emphasizes pattern accuracy and assembly, guiding you through the process of completing a fully functional neon piece. You'll gain experience with essential hardware and mounting strategies, ensuring your work is ready for illumination. To bring your creations to life, up to two completed signs will be filled with gas at no additional charge.

Continue honing your craft, troubleshoot with confidence, and illuminate your creativity!

Class tuition includes 2 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. This will help you become familiar with the studio and learn the process of studio rental beyond class hours.

Prerequisite: Neon 101 or 24 hours similar class experience with instructor permission is required.

Additional Class Materials Fee: A blow hose assembly kit is required. Kits are available for purchase on-site on the first day of class for $40.

Class does not meet on 3/5.

Ages 16+

Hot Glass 4: Open Projects

$680 MEMBER PRICE: $680
Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 6:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks
In this class, choose to either watch weekly technique-driven demonstrations or work on independent projects with the guidance of the instructor. Come with projects in mind that interest you as a developing glass artist or focus on advanced techniques demonstrated. Instructors will offer guidance, support, and help troubleshoot ideas as you continue to explore new ways to work with glass.

Class tuition includes 2 hours of studio rental time to be used during the 8-week course period. Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

Prerequisite: Hot Glass 3 or equivalent 72 hours experience with instructor permission required.

Class does not meet on 3/5.

Ages 14+

Introduction to Coldworking

$330 MEMBER PRICE: $330
Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 6:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks
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. Leave with a foundational knowledge of coldworking techniques and understanding of the lamination process. No experience necessary.

Class tuition includes 4 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. Open Studio is held on Mondays from 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

Class does not meet on 3/5.

Ages 14+

Torch to Treasure: Intermediate Glass Jewelry Making

$475 MEMBER PRICE: $475
Calendar Next available session starts Jan 22, 2026 at 6:30 pm, runs for 8 weeks
Go beyond the basics and explore techniques for creating wearable works of glass art. This intermediate-level class focuses on making small-scale jewelry using borosilicate glass and a hand torch. Expand your flameworking skills through solid sculpting, simple cane making, and introductory coldworking techniques. Over the course of 8 weeks, explore a range of jewelry forms including pendants, cabochons, rings, and chain links. Learn techniques for forming loops, incorporating color, and setting glass with metal findings and adhesives. The course includes hands-on practice with mandrels, covers kiln use and safe studio procedures.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your flameworking practice or explore a new direction in wearable art, this course will help you bring your glasswork into a refined and personal form.

Class tuition includes 2 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

Prerequisite: Flame 1: Introduction to Flameworking, or equivalent 24 hours experience with instructor permission required.

Class does not meet 3/5

Ages 14+





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