October 11-15, 2027

Introduction to Glassblowing

with Chad Balster

$1315

$1150 tuition + $165 material fee

About this Workshop

Decorative techniques are an essential part of learning to work with glass, especially when creating pieces valued for their beauty and charm. Designed for beginner and intermediate students, this class will focus on making decorative objects that are attractive, approachable, and easy to reproduce. Previous glassblowing experience is helpful but not required. Students will begin with marbles and paperweights while developing skills in handling solid glass, manipulating tools, and applying color. The class will then move into blown ornaments and other hanging objects, allowing students to experiment with different bubble forms and decorative techniques while learning to create strong, secure hanging loops. Chad will also demonstrate the hot sculpting of solid glass flowers, bird paperweights, and pen holders. Students will use tweezers and crimps to shape the glass and create desired textures. The week will conclude with blown pumpkins that combine glassblowing and hot-sculpting techniques introduced earlier in the class. Most of the projects are designed as quick, reproducible production pieces, giving students ample time to build their skills through practice and repetition. Participants will also learn how to work as part of a glassblowing team. By the end of the class, students will leave with a variety of decorative objects and a strong foundation in essential glassblowing techniques.

Key Points

  • Production strategies, hot shop safety
  • Solid forming techniques
  • Hot glassblowing techniques
  • Hot sculpting techniques
  • Teamwork in the hot shop

About the Instructor

Chad Balster

Discover more about this instructor and their work.

Full-Week Program

ENROLLMENT DETAILS

Introduction to Glassblowing with Chad Balster

October 11-15, 2027

$1,315.00

Online Registration Starts December 1, 2026

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