Glass art for beginners: coasters, tiles, pendants, or earrings

About this course

Participants explore glass properties and develop a small personal project using techniques such as glass appliqué, leading, copper foiling, casting, fusing, sagging and slumping. Ideas are developed through sketchbooks, experimentation and practical exercises, with teaching focused on both cold glasswork and kiln processes. Learning combines group and individual demonstrations, one-to-one tuition, project work and group discussion. Visual and written resources support the sessions, while ongoing feedback helps participants review their aims and evaluate their work. There is no formal assessment or required homework.

What you'll learn

• Explain key properties and behaviours of glass relevant to studio practice
• Apply cold glass techniques including appliqué, leading and copper foiling
• Use selected kiln-forming processes such as casting, fusing, sagging and slumping
• Plan and develop a small glass piece through sketchbook work and practical experimentation
• Follow appropriate health and safety practices when working in a glass studio

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners as well as learners with existing glass art knowledge. Teaching is adapted to different experience levels, with participants working on individual projects alongside demonstrations, group activities, discussion and one-to-one guidance.

• Suitable for learners starting without previous glass art experience
• Participants with existing knowledge can develop a small project and refine techniques
• The course involves individual project work as well as group learning
• Learners set and review personal aims rather than completing formal assessment

Before you go

• Basic materials are provided.
• Specialist tools and equipment are available for course use.
• Additional glass can be purchased for more ambitious projects, with guidance on suitable materials and suppliers.
• Visual and written handouts are provided, with accessible formats such as large print available if needed.
• Learning resources are also supplied electronically.