Classes

Have a sweet tooth? Hop on a torch and create your own glass jaw breakers. Learn to sculpt small molten balls of glass into colorful hard candies like licorice twists, jolly ranchers, fire balls, peppermints, and more.  Want to make your own dish to display your candies? Check out our workshops in the Kiln Shop. 

Transform molten glass into an awesome pumpkin you'll be proud to display all year long! Work with an instructor who will help you gather, add color, blow a bubble, and shape hot glass from the 2,100°F furnace into a handmade glass pumpkin complete with a beautiful curly glass stem.

Each participant makes 2 pumpkins in this workshop.

Create iconic images of the Steel City while learning to fuse glass. We will provide templates of team logos, bridges, and the iconic skyline. Then we'll leave it to you to create a locally-themed keepsake. You can’t go wrong with anything black and gold. After you create it, we will fire and fuse it and shape it into a mold. The result will be a functional dish perfect for holding spare change, serving small snacks, or storing jewelry.

Manipulate glass rods over a tabletop torch to create your own glass beads. In this introduction to the Flame Shop, learn the basic skills of heating rods of glass, applying glass to a mandrel, and shaping it with tools. Learn important decorative techniques, such as dots and trails to create multiple beautiful glass beads you'll want to wear or share.

Serve your favorite crackers and cheese on your own handmade glass charcuterie plate. Learn the basics of fusing glass including how to cut sheet glass and add color and design with frit and stringers to decorate and make a unique 8"x 8" glass board that you'll want to use for years to come. Charcuterie not included. 

Transform sheets of glass into a custom handmade house number plaque or name plate. With the help of an instructor, learn how to cut colorful sheets of glass and glue individual pieces together, like a mosaic, to create a custom glass panel that can be displayed inside or out. You design and make it. We'll fire and fuse it all together into a solid work of art. 

Make a distinctive desktop sculpture! With the help of an instructor, learn how to add color, use tools to twist & pull molten glass into a colorful swirl, then shape clear glass over top into a smooth dome adding light and dimension to this unique glass artwork!

Each participant makes 2 paperweights in this workshop.

Have some fun while learning all of the steps of the stained glass process. You will choose from pre-determined patterns to create a decorative suncatcher or ornament that fits with the season. No experience is necessary but even those that have taken a stained glass class in the past will enjoy these seasonal creations.

Transform sheets of glass into a functional and beautiful handmade glass dish. Learn to cut sheet glass into smaller geometric shapes and use these pieces, along with frit (colored glass granules) and stringers (thin, colored glass rods), to design and decorate your design. After you create it, we fire it to fuse it all together and shape into a mold, turning it into a functional dish perfect for holding spare change, serving small snacks, storing jewelry, or is beautiful enough to just use for display.

MOLTN is a unique workshop designed specifically for teens to learn about glass art in multiple studios at Pittsburgh Glass Center. Teens have the opportunity to work closely with glass artists in the Hot Shop, Kiln Shop, and in the Flame Shop to explore making glass art through a variety of techniques and come away with some unique glass creations. Students work with molten glass out of the a 2,100°F furnace in the Hot Shop, manipulate solid glass rods on a 3,000°F torch in the Flame Shop, and prepare glass to be fired and fused together in kilns up to 1,700°F in the Kiln Shop. No experience necessary.

This workshop is designed for students in grades 6–12.

Want a more in depth glass experience for teens? Check out our afterschool SiO2 classes: Youth After School

Scholarship Application: APPLY ONLINE

Use sculpting techniques to create a colorful mushroom paperweight. Work with an instructor who will help you gather, add color, sculpt, and shape hot glass from the 2,100°F furnace to make a fun and unique solid glass mushroom. This one-of-a-kind fungi can be displayed inside or outside.

Each participant makes 2 mushrooms in this workshop.

Bring the crystalline beauty of icicles inside your home. First, learn to use the tabletop torch to melt Borosilicate rods of glass. Then twist and pull this molten glass to create your own one-of-a-kind flamecicles. Hang them in a window to catch the light, on a tree to create a festive atmosphere, or give them as a beautiful gift.

Are you interested in trying stained glass? Learn the basics as you create a charming and unique glass dragonfly. Learn how to cut and shape glass into beautiful wings and work with traditional stained glass lead came and solder to adhere and complete your project.

Didn’t finish your bottle? Use your own elegant, flameworked handmade glass bottle stopper. Learn how to control, manipulate, and add color to a rod of glass while shaping your own unique stopper over a tabletop torch. You make the glass and we add the stopper. Use this creative piece while entertaining and impress your friends. It also makes a lovely gift.

Transform molten glass from a 2,100°F furnace into a one-of-a-kind, functional glass dish. Work with an instructor who helps you gather glass and add color to create a small, blown, double-walled glass bowl. Handmade blown catch-all bowls are perfect for holding spare change, serving small snacks, storing jewelry, or are beautiful just for display.

Each participant makes 2 catch-all bowls in this workshop.

Make a stained glass garden stake to add style to any indoor potted plants or add a burst of creative beauty to your outdoor garden. Using glass gems, explore stained glass techniques and learn to wrap and solder glass together to create a one-of-a-kind piece.                                                                                                           

Fast Track Flameworking is a great introduction to the Flame Shop. Work on a gas powered tabletop torch that can reach up to 3,000°F and sculpt glass on a small scale. Learn to melt and manipulate borosilicate glass while learning the basics of heat, control, and safety of molten glass. In the afternoon, the instructor will demonstrate three different items that can include small sculptures, pendants, marbles, swizzle sticks, or bottle stoppers.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

Stir things up with handmade glass swizzle sticks. Impress your friends and family by explaining how you melted glass rods over a tabletop torch to create the elegant swizzle stick that garnishes their iced tea or cocktail. A variety of available colors will allow you to design a swanky set.

Swizzle sticks aren’t just for drinks. Add these handmade sticks to your houseplants or outdoor garden as fun and quirky decoration.  

Perfect to keep for yourself or give as a gift.  

Make one-of-a-kind glass magnet keepsakes. Melt and manipulate a solid glass rod on a tabletop torch and add bits of colorful glass called frit. Learn to swirl your chosen colors throughout the clear glass as you shape and manipulate material into floral glass magnets.

Upcycle your glass bottles and jars and turn them into functional drinking glasses, vases, candle holders, or decorative pieces. Bring 2–4 bottles or jars. Then cut, grind, polish, sandblast, or engrave them into decorative and useful items for your home. To ensure you get the most of your time in the Cold Shop, please remove any paper labels from your glass before class.

Transform glass into a beautiful and practical handmade Hanukkiah you'll be proud to use and display.  Learn to cut and combine colored pieces of sheet glass, frit (colored glass granules), and stringers (thin colorful glass rods) to make your own design. You design and make it, we'll fire it and fuse it all together into a solid and practical work of glass art. 

Make your own colorful glass marbles using solid glass rods and a table top torch. This is a great introductory workshop to gain experience on the torch. Practice basic flameworking techniques and use a graphite molds to shape the glass to ensure symmetry. With the guidance of an artist, explore decorative techniques including twisties, dots, and trails to create one-of-a-kind marvelous marbles perfect for play or display.

Make a blown glass ornament to hang on the tree, give as a special holiday gift, or display all year long! Under the guidance of a hot shop instructor, you will select and add color to molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace. You'll try out glassblowing and expand the molten material with your breath to create a unique handmade blown glass ornament! This is a great workshop to sign up with family members or a group of friends and create a holiday memory in glass.

Each participant makes 2 ornaments in this workshop.

Design and make a glass ornament to hang on the tree, give as a special holiday gift, or display all year long!  Learn how to cut and combine brilliantly colored pieces of sheet glass, glass granules and thin glass strands to create luminous ornaments. Once you design it, we’ll fire it, so that all pieces become one. 

If you have always wanted to try glassblowing, this one-day workshop is for you. Hot Glass Blowout provides a full day of introduction and hands-on time with hot glass. You will learn how to gather, shape, and manipulate molten glass. You'll start with making a paperweight. Then learn other techniques and skills to make a variety of glass objects. Hot glass is addictive. Once you’ve started working in the Hot Shop, you may not want to leave.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.  

Have twice as much fun in this unique hot shop holiday sampler! Unlike our other workshops, you'll walk away with two different handmade glass items in this special sampler. Work with an instructor who helps you gather, pull, twist, and shape molten glass, then add color to create your own sculpted festive glass tree. Then, try glassblowing and make a handmade blown glass ornament. You'll choose and add color and expand a molten glass bubble with air into a unique and festive ornament, perfect to display at the holidays or all year round.

Each participant makes 1 blown glass ornament and 1 sculpted tree in this sampler workshop.

Learn the art of stained glass while creating your very own glass snowflake. Students will work with pre-cut glass, bevels and gems wrapping each component in metal to then join them together with molten solder. Use these dazzling snowflakes to decorate your home for the winter season or catch the light in your window all year round.

This workshop is designed for ages 14 +

Have some fun while learning all the steps of the stained glass process. You will choose from pre-determined patterns to create a decorative suncatcher or ornament that fits with the season. No experience is necessary but even those that have taken a stained glass class in the past will enjoy these seasonal creations for years to come.

This workshop is designed for ages 14+

Create a beautiful handmade glass pendant. Learn how to melt and manipulate a solid glass rod into a molten ball while adding bits of colorful glass called frit. Swirl your chosen colors throughout the clear glass as you shape your glass pendant. A safety talk and glass demonstration will be given at the beginning of the workshop as well as a number of different techniques for shaping.

Add a fancy twist and texture to your handmade glass ornament! Work with an instructor who will help you select and add color, blow a glass bubble and use a steel optic mold to add a unique patterned and raised texture to your hand made glass ornament. Great for anyone with an ornament collection or for those just beginning.

Each participant makes 2 textured ornaments in this workshop.

Sculpt your own colorful glass flower to display inside or out. Work with molten glass, frit (colored glass granules), and a variety of tools to color and shape a spectacular floral work of art.

Each participant makes 2 flowers in this workshop.

Personalize your own beer mug, wine goblet, or drinking glass in this 2-hour workshop. Work with an expert artist and use sandblasting, glass carving, etching, polishing, and dremeling techniques to create a unique drinking vessel. You bring your creativity. We provide the glasses.

Whether you have never touched flat glass or have your own kiln at home, all experience levels can gain knowledge from this class. Start with tool fundamentals, glass cutting, and basic fusing rules. As the day progresses, explore a variety of techniques and materials. Discussions will cover a wide range of information about kilnforming, mold materials, kiln theory, and firing schedules. You will leave this class with a variety of functional glass plates, bowls, and platters of your own creation, as well as a wealth of kilnforming knowledge. 

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

Create a lovely glass habitat for your air plants. An instructor will help you gather glass, add color, and then blow, shape, and manipulate a glass bubble into an elegant handmade terrarium. Air plants not included.

Each participant makes 2 blown glass terrariums in this workshop.

Make a decorative glass ball that you can hang in your home or garden or float on a pond or birdbath. Work with an instructor who will help you gather molten glass, choose and add color, and blow and shape into a one-of-a-kind piece. 

Each participant makes 2 blown glass garden floats.

NEW! Transform sheets of glass into decorative and one-of-a-kind glass coasters. Learn to cut sheet glass into smaller geometric shapes and use these pieces along with colored glass granules (frit) and thin glass strands (stringers) to create unique and usable pieces of your own design. Once you design it, we’ll fire it in the kiln, so that all pieces become one and turn them into a set of functional coasters for your home or to give as a gift. 

Design and create a glass platter perfect for serving your favorite foods in style.  Learn to cut and assemble colorful sheet glass, glass granules (frit), and thin glass rods (stringers) into a unique design. After designing your platter, we'll fuse it in the kiln to create a dish you'll be proud to use. Sizes vary from 7" x 12", 10" x 10", 8" x 8", or 9" round.

Get started in stained glass. Learn the basics as you create a beautiful ornament or suncatcher to display all year. You'll use pre-cut and beveled edge glass and work with traditional stained glass lead came and solder to adhere your piece.

Have twice as much fun in this unique Flame Shop sampler. You’ll create a set of 4 handmade glass swizzle sticks to stir up your favorite drink and a bottle stopper to keep your drinks fresh. Learn how to control, manipulate, and add color to rods of glass while shaping your drink set over a tabletop torch, all under the guidance of an instructor. Use your glass creations while entertaining or give them as fun gifts.

New! Transform a blown glass pumpkin premade by our glass artists into a unique decorative piece of your own. In this introductory workshop, you’ll receive two clear glass pumpkins, the help of an expert artist, and access to the industrial sandblaster to create unique designs, faces, names, or other details. No heating or cooling is required. Take your two customized pumpkins home with you the same day you make them. One pumpkin will have an opening in the bottom and with the help of some fairy lights (not included) can transform into a magical glass luminary. Perfect for the season.

NEW! Make a set of 2 unique blown glass ornaments to hang on the tree, give as a special holiday gift, or display all year. Under the guidance of an instructor, you will select and add color to molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace. You'll try glassblowing and expand the molten material with your breath to create one round blown glass ornament and use tools to create a second flattened blown glass ornament. This is a great workshop for family members or a group of friends.

Each participant makes a set of 2 ornaments (1 round and one flat) in this workshop.

Get started in stained glass. Learn the basics as you create a beautiful ornament or suncatcher to display all year. You'll use pre-cut and beveled edge glass and work with traditional stained glass lead came and solder to adhere your piece.

Join us for an opportunity to learn more about PGC’s many educational programs, artist residency opportunities, interactive tours, and hands-on activities. Educator Open Houses are not only for teachers. Principals, administrators, and PTA/PTO representatives are also welcome! The event includes a tour of the PGC facilities as well as glassblowing demonstrations. Make your own fused glass tile and earn an hour of Act 48 credit. 

Transform rods of glass into mini mushrooms. Learn how to control a tabletop torch, manipulate borosilicate rods of glass, and apply color and surface embellishments to create mushroom pendants or tiny figurines to adorn your potted plants. Sculpt foraged mushrooms or create them from your mind’s magical forest.

Transform molten glass into a bright suncatcher that you'll want to display all year. Under the guidance of a Hot Shop instructor, you will select and add color to molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace. You'll blow the glass and expand the molten material with your breath and then use tools to shape it into a unique blown glass suncatcher.

Each participant makes 2 suncatchers in this workshop.

In this 6-hour workshop, you'll create your own personal bouquet of glass flowers. Using borosilicate glass rods, learn to melt, manipulate, add color, and create flowers and leaves using a tabletop torch.  Demonstrations will be given throughout the day on shaping, color application, sculpting leaves, and pulling out petals. Choose to add a 6” clear glass rod for standing in a potted plant or create loops to wear as pendants.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

These special workshops are designed with teens in mind. Students get the opportunity to learn about the PGC studios with other teens.

Use sculpting techniques to create a colorful mushroom paperweight. Work with an instructor who will help you gather, add color, sculpt, and shape hot glass from the 2,100°F furnace to make a fun and unique solid glass mushroom. This one-of-a-kind fungi can be displayed inside or outside.

Sign up as an individual and meet other teens interested in glass, or bring a friend to share in the experience. If you are interested in a more in-depth experience, check out our afterschool SiO2 classes, full day MOLTN workshop, or summer boot camp.

Create beautiful glass flowers to add to any plant, vase, or garden. Using borosilicate glass rods, learn to melt, manipulate, add color, and shape up to 3 flowers over a tabletop torch. Watch demonstrations to learn multiple ways to shape a flower, or imagine your own. Choose to add a 6” clear glass rod for standing in a potted plant or create loops to wear as pendants.

In this 4-hour workshop, you'll harness the structural power of glass and solder to create a small three-dimensional stained glass planter box or terrarium. It's perfect for small plants, cuttings, or propagations.  You will learn stained glass techniques such as cutting glass, copper foiling, and soldering to create a beautiful glass home for your plants.

TEENS ONLY! Flamecicles

Bring the crystalline beauty of icicles inside your home. First, learn to use the tabletop torch to melt borosilicate rods of glass. Then twist and pull this molten glass to create your own one-of-a-kind flamecicles. Hang them in a window to catch the light, on a tree to create a festive atmosphere, or give them as a beautiful gift.

TEENS ONLY workshops are designed with teens in mind. Students get the opportunity to learn about the PGC studios with other teens. Sign up as an individual and meet other teens interested in glass or bring a friend to share in the experience. If you are interested in a more in-depth experience, check out our afterschool SiO2 classes, full day MOLTN workshop, or summer boot camp.

In this 4-hour workshop, you'll harness the structural power of glass and solder to create a beautiful three-dimensional candle holder that is perfect for creating magical ambience. You will learn stained glass techniques such as cutting glass, copper foiling, and soldering to create a unique piece for your home or gift for a loved one.

TEENS ONLY! Hot Glass Blowout

If you have always wanted to try glassblowing, this one-day workshop is for you. Hot Glass Blowout provides a full day of introduction and hands-on time with hot glass. You will learn how to gather, shape, and manipulate molten glass. You'll start with making a paperweight. Then learn other techniques and skills to make a variety of glass objects.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

TEENS ONLY workshops are designed with teens in mind. Students get the opportunity to learn about the PGC studios with other teens. Sign up as an individual and meet other teens interested in glass or bring a friend to share in the experience. If you are interested in a more in-depth experience, check out our afterschool SiO2 classes, full day MOLTN workshop, or summer boot camp.

Do you relish the idea of trying your hand at glass? Do you get geeked for gherkins? Then have a dill-ightful time making glass pickles. You will learn to heat and shape clear and colorful rods of glass with a 3,000-degree torch to create your own pickle ornament, pendant, or mini sculpture. This workshop will cover safety, torch operations, and sculpting techniques.

Are you o-fish-ally ready to get hooked on glass? Learn to melt glass rods over a 3,000-degree flame, add color, and create shapes. Then, add bits of glass to create fins on your one-of-a-kind fish. This workshop will cover safety, torch operations, and sculpting techniques. Don’t be koi, sign up today.

I sea that you’re ready for a shell of a time. Come and make a turtle or two to take home with you. Learn how to melt clear glass rods at a 3,000-degree flame, add color, and create small turtles. Choose to add a loop or magnet to make your turtle wearable or decorative. This workshop will cover safety, torch operations, and sculpting techniques.

Explore the possibilities of printmaking with glass. Learn how to use glass etching tools in the cold shop to design your own printed artwork.  After engraving your glass plate, you'll use ink to make your design come to life on paper. Take home both your glass plate and your printed works in the same day. 

Bug out over these cute little creatures. This workshop will cover safety, torch operation, and a variety of sculpting techniques for you to create your own brood of beetles. Learn to melt clear glass rods over a 3,000-degree flame, add color, and create shapes. You’ll use colorful glass rods to add finishing buggy touches like polka dots and legs. Add a magnet or keep your bugs as small sculptures to adorn your home.

Create fused glass animal shapes, inspired by adorable designs. These colorful and whimsical animals feature playful, curved bodies and vibrant patterns, perfect for brightening up any space. The class will cover an introduction to fused glass, how to shape glass, how to create unique designs, and the basics of fused glass firing. No previous experience is required.  By the end of the session, you'll have created your own unique fused glass animal to decorate your home!

Are you a sucker for a succulent? Work with an instructor who will help you gather, add color, sculpt, and shape hot glass from the 2,100°F furnace into handmade glass succulent sculpture. This plant will last forever.

Each participant makes 2 succulent sculptures in this workshop. 

Take a deep dive with us in this all-day intensive beginner flameworking course. Immerse yourself in solid sculpting over a 3,000-degree flame as we explore the depth of the sea. Demonstrations will include sea forms such as fish, sea turtles, and marine plant life. Additional time may be allotted to see other sea forms on request. Instruction will cover safety, torch operation, and a variety of solid sculpting techniques.  

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.  

Bring your favorite pet photo to create a one of a kind fused glass portrait of your pet! Create a textured pet portrait featuring a layered, lifelike adorable pet face. This project focuses on creating lifelike texture using glass, ideal for animal lovers looking to capture the personality of their pets. Workshop covers how to build texture with sheet glass, create facial features using frit, stringers, and cabochons, assemble a lifelike 3d portrait, glass firing basics, and options for finishing and displaying your glass masterpiece.

This class is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is needed. By the end of the class, you’ll have a personalized fused glass animal portrait to showcase your creative interpretation of a beloved pet! 

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 the provided patterns to create a finished stained glass panel ready for display.  

This class is designed for beginners and is a prerequisite for Intermediate Stained Glass. It is 8 weeks of class time in one week!

Class time includes 1 hour-break for lunch. Lunch is not provided. We do have a refrigerator available. 

Dive into the world of larger marine creatures in this 5th addition to Deb Crowley’s Flameworking Aquatics series with borosilicate glass. Start with creating a small standing harbor seal, then move on to a dolphin on a simple wave, a shark, an orca, and a humpback whale with some larger types of flora/water wisps to complete your aquatic scenes.

Please bring several wood burls or driftwood bases that can be easily drilled out in class to display your work. No rocks please. We will be making a new scene each day. These are perfect small, affordable items to add to your body of work for shows and galleries.

Students should understand basic borosilicate terms, and be able to complete items at a reasonable pace throughout the class time.

This class offers you a unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals and fine details of glass working. With an emphasis on traditional techniques and modern artistry, Jason will guide you through each step of the glass creation process, from initial design to finishing touches.

The course covers various glassmaking methods, including blowing, shaping, pattern designing, allowing you to create beautiful art and functional pieces. Jason's hands-on approach ensures that everyone receives individualized guidance and the chance to explore their creativity within a supportive environment.

Whether you're a beginner eager to discover the world of glass art or an experienced artisan looking to hone your skills, Jason provides the tools, techniques, and inspiration to help you bring your visions to life.

Make your own distinctive glass goblet in this unique two-day multi-studio workshop. On the first night, work with instructors in the Hot Shop to gather, color, and shape molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace into your goblet’s foot and stem. On the second night, work with instructors in the Cold Shop to etch and sandblast a pre-made top in a way that makes your vessel truly unique. Then, learn to cut, glue, and assemble your pieces so that they become an amazing and functional goblet.

PGC is excited to once again collaborate with Crafting the Future, a nationwide nonprofit organization working to increase access to creative enrichment by connecting BIPOC artists with opportunities that will help them thrive.

Their Better Together event series celebrates and supports the careers of BIPOC makers with events that feature Black and Brown artists, performers, and entrepreneurs.

Beadmaking Make It Now with Maria Aroche, Ghislaine Sabiti, and Roxana De Leon Saiz from The Bead Project

In the flame shop, transform molten glass over a 3,000°F tabletop torch to create a few glass beads. Work closely with an instructor who helps you create a few decorative glass beads you’ll want to wear or share.

PGC is excited to once again collaborate with Crafting the Future, a nationwide nonprofit organization working to increase access to creative enrichment by connecting BIPOC artists with opportunities that will help them thrive.

Their Better Together event series celebrates and supports the careers of BIPOC makers with events that feature Black and Brown artists, performers, and entrepreneurs.

Blown Glass Catch-All Bowl Make It Now!

In the Hot Shop, transform molten glass from a 2,100°F furnace into a one-of-a-kind, functional glass dish. Work closely with an instructor who helps you create a small, blown, double-walled glass bowl. Handmade blown catch-all bowls are perfect for holding spare change, serving small snacks, storing jewelry, or are beautiful just for display.

Make your own distinctive glass goblet in this unique two-day multi-studio workshop. On the first night, work with instructors in the Hot Shop to gather, color, and shape molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace into your goblet’s foot and stem. On the second night, work with instructors in the Cold Shop to etch and sandblast a pre-made top in a way that makes your vessel truly unique. Then, learn to cut, glue, and assemble your pieces so that they become an amazing and functional goblet.

Take your sculptures to the next level and add unique light effects with PLASMA! Over the course of this weeklong class, you will design and fabricate a plasma lamp while learning about the science of gas discharge tubes in a creative environment. We will consider plasma in the contexts of scientific glassblowing, contemporary art, and design through a combination of demonstrations, collaboration, and hands-on learning.

Topics covered will include safety, tips for sculpting borosilicate glass for plasma, application of phosphors, gas mixtures, adding electrodes, capacitive coupling, and much more.

This intensive will include an additional material fee that can be processed on-site the first day of class when you check in.

Join us for an exciting one-week class that delves into the vibrant interplay between form and surface in glassblowing and coldworking! This dynamic class invites you to bring an inspirational object, serving as a starting point for daily design and creation.

Throughout the week, we’ll embrace both intentional design and experimental exploration, recognizing that our first ideas are just the beginning. By oscillating between focused execution and open-ended experimentation, you will enhance your visual communication skills and discover unexpected pathways in your creative process.

Our discussions will highlight how form and surface can engage in a rich conversation—one that thrives on both harmony and contrast. We will employ drawing as a vital tool for ideation, encouraging you to consider how adjustments in form, color, and texture can lead to diverse outcomes.

Working in both the hot and cold shops, you will experiment with innovative techniques to create dynamic patterns in and on glass, unlocking the endless possibilities of this captivating medium. Join us for a week of discovery, creativity, and artistic growth!

Unlock the magical world of fusing in multiples and intergenerational beading!!! This all-levels class has something for everyone from the experienced fuser to a beginner. In this course we will go over basic fusing techniques such as glass cutting, kiln basics, fusing, and slumping. We will expand on these techniques by making multiple cabochons that can be installed as a group to create a mosaic or that can be embellished with seed beads. You can work on both the macro and micro scales while building technique through repetitive making. Techniques and concepts in this class stem from the lessons Adeye has learned from their mother, that she learned from her mother, and so on and so forth. Adeye is excited to share their wisdom and craft so that it inspires you to teach what you have learned to loved ones!

A handmade glass of bubbles is perfect for brunch. Join us for a special morning of glassmaking. Make a flameworked bottle stopper with help from our artists. Then enjoy light brunch bites with a mimosa on our new patio. Glassblowing demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day.

Don’t put a cork in yet. You also have the opportunity to make a stemless wine glass ($105) in the hot shop and/or a glass coaster ($50) in the kiln shop. Register for each separately!

Ages 21+, $60/person

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 3:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer. PGC will remain open after the event.

A handmade glass of bubbles is perfect for brunch. Join us for a special morning of glassmaking. Make your own blown stemless wine glass with help from our artists in the hot shop. Then enjoy light brunch bites with a mimosa on our new patio. Glassblowing demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day.

Don’t put a cork in yet. You also have the opportunity to make a glass bottle stopper ($60) in the flame shop and/or a glass coaster ($50) in the kiln shop. Register for each separately!

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 3:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer. PGC will remain open after the event.

A handmade glass of bubbles is perfect for brunch. Join us for a special morning of glassmaking. Make your own fused glass coaster with help from our artists in the kiln shop. Enjoy some light brunch bites with a mimosa on our new patio. Glassblowing demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day.

Don’t put a cork in yet. You also have the opportunity to make a glass bottle stopper in the flame shop ($60) and/or stemless wine glass ($105) in the hot shop. Register for each separately!

Ages 21+, $50

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 3:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer. PGC will remain open after the event.

Enjoy all the fun of an 8-week course in half the time. Explore the Tiffany method of stained glass while creating your very own panel from a variety of provided patterns. Learn the basic skills of cutting and shaping sheet glass, foiling, and soldering to create a panel you will proudly display.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

This class will focus on the exploration of construction, aesthetics, and methods of sculpting in the cold shop. We will explore glass construction through the use of adhesive and other methods of adhesion. You are encouraged to use found, recycled, readymade, and handmade glass and combine other media into your work.

This is an all-levels class; whether you are looking to explore a new material or expand your studio practice in the cold shop. If you are able, bring handmade and found glass elements to play with, as well as any other sculptural material you might want on hand.

Ready to explore the world of borosilicate tubing? This class is designed to help familiarize you with the use of borosilicate tubing through a variety of techniques and applications including but not limited to pulling points, setting up a blow tube, blowing and shaping a bubble, sealing hollow components together, and much more. Instruction will focus more time on practicing technical exercises to strengthen your skills than completing specific projects. However, small vessels and hollow projects can be made throughout the week.  

It is preferred that you have some level of flameworking experience prior to taking this class. No prior experience working with tubing is required, but if you do have some experience with tubing, this class can be very beneficial to you.  

In this class the objectives will be to build a solid foundation, refine skills, work more efficiently, and establish an understanding of how working on a small scale can translate into larger works. You will work in clear glass, focusing on basic forms such as the tumbler, cylinder, bowl, bottle and forms with waists, moving methodically from one shape to the next. Instruction will be personalized to build on individual skills, and one-on-one time will be given to help find simple solutions to common struggles.

Join me in a mad dash through kilncasting. This class will introduce you to different approaches for translating ideas into kilncast glass. We will focus on creating original, one-of-a-kind positives out of clay, wax, and through direct carving investment molds (not technically a positive, but we will get to that in the class). The resulting works will all be used to create cast glass objects. Through projects and demonstrations, you will be introduced to different ways to make positives and molds, how to achieve different looks with different types of glass, and considerations for safely finishing your projects after casting. You should plan to be challenged in this fast-paced class and will be encouraged to take advantage of open studio time after dinner.

While geared toward beginners and aspiring makers with little to no experience in kiln cast glass, students with casting experience will be welcome! 

This class is designed to give you a rudimentary technical base from which your work can progress.

We will pull points and use jacks and ellipse shears to manipulate borosilicate tubing. Blown forms of varied shape, scale, and difficulty will be the main focus. Colorful glass will be added into the demo repertoire as we gain technical competency.

Demonstrations will focus on small and medium-scale blown forms with an emphasis on symmetry and formal quality. We will also work through techniques specific to the individual interests of each student. Some exercises will be assigned to achieve specific goals.   

Students are expected to have some familiarity with the torch and hand tools. Instructor permission is required for beginning students. Please email melissa@pittsburghglasscenter.org with any questions about pre-requisites.

In this intermediate glassblowing class, you will focus on tumblers, cylinders, and bowls, while introducing color applications such as overlays, cane, incalmo, and wraps. Each day class will begin with a lecture and demonstration, followed by individual blow slots. Working efficiently, improving heat control, and surveying basic blowing theories will be covered. Instruction will be personalized building on individual skills, and one-on-one time will be given to help find simple solutions to common struggles.

The focus of this class will be to explore techniques along the edges of mainstream kiln working.  While most of the attention will be focused on three-dimensional objects there will also be an opportunity to learn about weaving glass and adding painted detail to kiln projects.

Tony has been firing glass in kilns since 1991 and sold a line of kilnformed work nationally for 25 years. He has most enjoyed developing his own techniques to satisfy his desire to experiment. The basics of kilnforming strategies will be discussed, as well as problem solving and creating kiln schedules. This class will be energetic with the possibility for making diverse projects within full days. Tony teaches without secrets and likes lots of questions and caffeine.

No experience is required, and if you have any, you’ll leave with many more directions to pursue.

Celebrate Pride Month at Pittsburgh Glass Center with an evening of colorful activities and free hot glass demonstrations.

Make a one-of-a-kind glass magnet with all the colors of the rainbow. With the help of an instructor, melt and manipulate a solid glass rod on a tabletop torch and add bits of colorful glass called frit. Learn to swirl your chosen colors throughout the clear glass as you shape and manipulate the material into a unique colorful magnet.

Celebrate the with additional activities this evening - Rainbow Paperweight in the Hot Shop ($50 per person), or Rainbow Fused Glass Suncatcher in our Kiln Shop (Pay What Makes You Happy - available for walk-in visitors!).

Ages 8+ $30/person

Celebrate Pride Month at Pittsburgh Glass Center with an evening of colorful activities and free hot glass demonstrations.

Create a distinctive desktop sculpture with all the colors in the rainbow. With the help of an instructor, learn how to add color and use tools to twist and pull molten glass into a colorful swirl, then shape the glass into a smooth dome adding light and dimension to this unique colorful glass artwork.

Celebrate the with additional activities this evening - Rainbow Magnets in the Flame Shop ($30 per person), or Rainbow Fused Glass Suncatcher in our Kiln Shop (Pay What Makes You Happy - available for walk-in visitors!).

Ages 5+

$50/person

Celebrate Pride Month at Pittsburgh Glass Center with an evening of colorful activities and free hot glass demonstrations.

Make a fused glass rainbow suncatcher. Combine colorful pieces of glass granules and thin glass strands to create a one-of-a-kind luminous suncatcher. Once you design it, we’ll fire it, so that all pieces become one.

Ages 5+

Pay what makes you happy! Proceeds from this activity will benefit our LGBTQIA+ scholarship fund.

Pre-registration is not required. Sign up at the Front Desk during the event.

In this class we will focus on the marble; a timeless object that encapsulates pattern and color in glass. We will cover lenses, pattern, color, principles, shaping, magnification, negative space, cleanliness, and much more.

As long as you are comfortable on the torch, all levels are welcome from intermediate to advanced.

This course is designed to help students of all skill levels find their unique voice and gain confidence using a variety of experimentation-forward color techniques in the hot shop. The first few days will be focused on color bar drops, wraps as well as frit, powder application, and color theory with the hopes of spending the majority of the week on independent projects and demonstrations based on interest. The main objective of this class is to play and try new things while getting comfortable using a LOT OF COLOR!  

This class is designed to get your hands in practice of techniques and your mind around the cost of using color. The focus of this course is not based on traditional techniques such as cane roll ups or incalmos, but rather "freaking it" to come up with unique and personal techniques that can grow and build with time and practice.  

It is preferred that you have some experience in the hot shop and are able to work semi-independently, are comfortable gathering and moving through the hot shop, have taken ideally one or more extended classes and have used color in any capacity, although it is not required. Unless enrolled with a partner, you will be assigned a partner based on skill level and techniques of interest. This course will rely heavily on teamwork and clear communication. While this is a beginner friendly class, students with some experience in the hot shop will gain the most from this course.

Susan is excited to meet you and share her sewn glass technique. You will complete three projects using clear and colorful Bullseye glass. First, we'll ease into the process with a small two-section sewn ornament. This will get you familiar with the technique. Next, you will design, fuse, and sew a “quilted” sushi plate. Then lastly, we’ll build a three-dimensional house incorporating seven sections that you’ll stitch together. Prepare to learn the basic techniques to sew glass in your own studio!

Students should have experience with basic glass cutting skills.

Celebrate the summer solstice at PGC. Soak up the warmth from the sun while enjoying refreshments on the patio. Have your tarot cards read and make a spell jar/mojo bag with Arts & Crafts: Botanica & Occult Shop. Then experience a completely different kind of light and heat from our glass furnaces. Watch free glassblowing demonstrations, set intentions for the upcoming season and burn them away with the help of our hot glass artists. And of course, make your own summer-inspired glass artworks.  

Make an Engraved Sunburst Suncatcher    

Capture the beauty of the summer sun with glistening glass.  In the cold shop, use a lathe and traditional cutting and engraving techniques to cut a star or sunburst designs into glass to create a magical suncatcher. Sunburst suncatchers are beautiful in a summer window.    

Ages 14+  $35/person  

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

Celebrate the summer solstice at Pittsburgh Glass Center. Soak up the warmth from the sun while enjoying refreshments on the patio. Have your tarot cards read and make a spell jar/mojo bag with Arts & Crafts: Botanica & Occult Shop. Then experience a completely different kind of light and heat from our glass furnaces. Watch free glassblowing demonstrations, set intentions for the upcoming season, and burn them away with the help of our hot glass artists. Plus, make your own summer-inspired glass artworks.

Make a Mini Glass Mushroom

Create a mini glass mushroom sculpture from your mind’s magical forest. With the help of an instructor, work on a tabletop torch to manipulate borosilicate rods of glass and add color and surface embellishments to create an adorable mushroom figurine. Mini mushrooms are perfect addition to your potted plants or great for catching the summer sun on your windowsill.

Ages 8+ $40/person

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

Celebrate the summer solstice at Pittsburgh Glass Center. Soak up the warmth from the sun while enjoying refreshments on the patio. Have your tarot cards read and make a spell jar/mojo bag with Arts & Crafts: Botanica & Occult Shop. Then experience a completely different kind of light and heat from our glass furnaces. Watch free glassblowing demonstrations, set intentions for the upcoming season, and burn them away with the help of our hot glass artists. Plus, make your own summer-inspired glass artwork.

Make a Sculpted Glass Mushroom

Sculpt hot glass into a garden mushroom. In the hot shop, you’ll work with a local artist to pull, sculpt, shape, and add color to hot glass from the 2,100°F furnace to make a solid glass mushroom. This is one-of-a-kind fungi that can be displayed inside or out.

Ages 5+ $60/person

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

Celebrate the summer solstice at Pittsburgh Glass Center. Soak up the warmth from the sun while enjoying refreshments on the patio. Have your tarot cards read and make a spell jar/mojo bag with Arts & Crafts: Botanica & Occult Shop. Then experience a completely different kind of light and heat from our glass furnaces. Watch free glassblowing demonstrations, set intentions for the upcoming season, and burn them away with the help of our hot glass artists. Plus, make your own summer-inspired glass artworks.

Make a Fused Glass Suncatcher

Capture the beauty of the summer sun with glistening glass. Combine colorful pieces of glass granules and thin glass strands to create a one-of-a-kind luminous suncatcher. Once you design it, we’ll fire it, so that all pieces become one.

Ages 5+ $45/person

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

Celebrate Juneteenth at Pittsburgh Glass Center with a community open house of glassmaking and free hot glass demonstrations.

Make a Sculpted Glass Flower

In the hot shop, you'll work with a local artist to sculpt and transform molten glass from a 2,100 degree furnace into a beautiful glass flower that you'll be proud to display or give to a loved one.

Ages 5 +

$45/person

Celebrate Juneteenth at Pittsburgh Glass Center with a community open house of glassmaking and free hot glass demonstrations.

Make a Fused Glass Suncatcher

Combine brilliantly colored pieces of glass granules and thin glass strands to create a one-of-a-kind luminous colorful suncatcher. Once you design it, we’ll fire it, so that all pieces become one.

Ages 5+

Pay what makes you happy! Proceeds from this activity will benefit our BIPOC scholarship fund.

Pre-registration is not required. Sign up at the front desk during the event.

If you are captivated by shiny objects, this class is for you! Learn how to create glass gems and jewels in the cold shop. Hone your HXTAL lamination and glass carving skills with guided instruction and detailed demonstrations. Learn the basics and a few advanced techniques that can take your pieces from nice to spectacular. Your gems will be made using dichroic glass, float glass, mirror, and a variety of laminated glass that will be prepared for you ahead of time. You can even bring your own glass you’d like to carve. Learn how to drill holes and finish them beautifully in preparation for jewelry findings. We’ll cover how to make simple cord necklaces.

More advanced concepts of jewelry design and fabrication will be discussed at length, but metal fabrication will need to be explored individually outside of class. Expect to leave with a pile of gems to add to your hoard!

All levels are welcome, however, having coldworking experience will allow for massive growth in exploration and technique. Ideally students have worked in a coldshop before and have basic understanding of machinery and tools. Beginners are welcome, but might be slowed down by learning how to use each individual machine.

Bring your sculpting to the next level and learn how to breathe life into your glass art. In this class we will create sea life imagery by focusing on solid sculpting of borosilicate glass. All the essential fundamentals of detailed sculpting techniques will be covered including heat control, color application, bit work, welding, bridging, and accenting with the aim of enhancing your understanding of the nature of glass so you can apply these skills to your art. Demonstrations will include a variety of different marine life sculptures followed by hands-on learning and open discussions on the nuances that will bring your sculptures to the next level.

All levels welcome, however, some glass experience would be beneficial to students. They should have a basic understanding of flameworking, how to operate a torch, use hand tools, and have some experience working independently.

This class is designed for intermediate-level glassblowers looking to refine their skills and work more efficiently. Through demonstrations and hands-on instruction, this course will focus on foundational shape while fine-tuning essential skills such as gathering glass, setting up bubbles, and forming punties. You will work exclusively with clear glass, progressing through basic forms such as the cylinder, cone, bowl, and bottle.

This class will not only elevate your glassblowing abilities but will also expand your understanding of the material and how it behaves. By the end of the course, you will have a stronger grasp of glass manipulation, more confidence in your craft, and refined techniques for creating your own work.

Make your own distinctive glass goblet in this unique two-day multi-studio workshop. On the first night, work with instructors in the Hot Shop to gather, color, and shape molten glass from the 2,100°F furnace into your goblet’s foot and stem. On the second night, work with instructors in the Cold Shop to etch and sandblast a pre-made top in a way that makes your vessel truly unique. Then, learn to cut, glue, and assemble your pieces so that they become an amazing and functional goblet.

In this one-day workshop, use the torch to melt and combine glass rods to make pendants that appear to encapsulate colorful exploding fireworks. Detailed demonstrations will be given on the compression technique. Instructors will provide individualized troubleshooting so that you can form several captivating pieces. Learn to apply color, make loops, and manipulate the glass to take whatever shape you desire.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

How can we use glass and light as a medium to carry a piece of poetry with us?

In this class, we will create wearable and portable pieces of neon that you can bring everywhere. The possibilities are endless such as wearing them directly on your body as a fashion accessory, as part of a costume, or carrying portable neon signage for personal and artistic expression. These creations don't have to live on your body, they can be part of an art bike, a car, or a creative way to promote your business while mingling at an event. At the end of the class, we'll host a fashion show where you can showcase your creations.

This class is a collaboration with MIT Media Lab to develop an open-source educational kit that provides a plug-and-play electronics kit to interface with neon, which you can take home afterward. We'll teach you how to connect and assemble the electronic kit and neon transformers. No prior experience with programming or physical computing is required, just an open mind and a curious spirit to explore the possibilities of neon.

Neon has been a part of architectural lighting, signage, and lighting devices, and is widely used in mixed-media artwork. In this class, we'll examine the traditional uses of neon in modern society and explore its future. For example, we'll create lights to illuminate or amplify parts of our bodies, viewing the human form as dynamic architecture and a living system of feelings and experiences that shape our physical appearance and transform how we carry ourselves daily.

Questions to consider before the class:

Can color and light become an extension of us, like our inner workings or aura, and be visualized?

Can we use lights as jewelry?

What shapes and forms can we create with glass and light to express ourselves?

Can we create sunrise and sunset and carry the magic hour on our shoulders?

What if these lights could sense changes in our body or environment, becoming a visual indication of how we respond to the world?

What is the future of signage?

This class is for all levels. For beginners, we'll focus on design and basic techniques. For intermediate students, we'll concentrate on making three-dimensional work. For advanced students, we can explore incorporating lettering into wearable designs. Our pedagogy and motto begins with:  "What's the simplest thing that could possibly work?”

Note: there may be an additional supply fee 

This class is an introduction to working hot glass in vessel making and sculptural contexts. We will start off with the basics, learning how to navigate the space safely and work with the material in a controlled manner. As the week progresses, you will be shown different techniques related to both vessel making and creating sculptural glass. An emphasis will be placed on teamwork.

The class will show a variety of techniques during the demo portion of the course, and you will be encouraged to explore the techniques that you gravitate toward. After a foundation is established around creating glass objects, you will be introduced to color application and basic pattern work. By the end of the class, you should feel comfortable navigating the hot shop to create basic vessels such as cups and simple vase forms as well as approaching less-traditional sculptural ideas.

During this class Miriam will demonstrate the basic processes used to create her kilnformed scenic imagery. To begin, you will create several tests and samples. Then, learn to translate a landscape image into glass adding the sensation of depth by layering Bullseye sheet glass and frit. You will also make and incorporate custom vitrigraph stringers that can be additionally worked with a torch and used in the piece. It is a long process that combines soft flameworking, fusing, and multiple firings. It is always a “little miracle” to get a piece accomplished in only five days. Because of this you will create one pre-selected winter landscape chosen by Miriam. You will follow the process step-by-step to get the entire image translated into a flat glass piece with depth and an extremely realistic effect while gaining a complete vision and understanding about the process.

The process Miriam has developed and teaches is very complex, and best for students with at least 3 years of experience with fusing. Students should have a good understanding of glass behavior and annealing; knowledge of Bullseye glass & frit as well as COE 90 glass.

Make a distinctive and decorative red, white, and blue desktop sculpture on the Fourth of July weekend. With the help of an instructor, learn how to add color, use tools to twist and pull molten glass into a colorful swirl. Then shape clear glass over the top into a smooth dome adding light and dimension to this unique glass artwork.  

Each participant makes 2 paperweights in this workshop.

This Fourth of July weekend, design and create a glass platter perfect for serving your favorite foods. Learn to cut and assemble colorful sheet glass, glass granules (frit), and thin glass rods (stringers) into a unique design. After designing your platter, we'll fuse it in the kiln to create a dish you'll be proud to use. Sizes vary from 7" x 12", 10" x 10", 8" x 8", or 9" round.

This class will cover from start to finish how to inflate bubbles and shaping the material into vessels. You will learn how to gather glass from the furnace, how to shape and control the heat of the glass by using the marver and many other glassmaking hand tools.

We will cover safety and proper use of studio equipment and tools, how to create solid shapes, then move into bubble making, drinking vessels, and many other basic glass techniques. In this class, we will cover how to communicate, skill building with daily drills, and how to work together in creating each other's visions. All levels are welcome.

During this class Miriam will demonstrate the basic processes used to create her kilnformed scenic imagery. To begin, you will create several tests and samples. Then, learn to translate a landscape image into glass adding the sensation of depth by layering Bullseye sheet glass and frit. You will also make and incorporate custom vitrigraph stringers that can be additionally worked with a torch and used in the piece. It is a long process that combines soft flameworking, fusing, and multiple firings. It is always a “little miracle” to get a piece accomplished in only five days. Because of this you will create one pre-selected winter landscape chosen by Miriam. You will follow the process step-by-step to get the entire image translated into a flat glass piece with depth and an extremely realistic effect while gaining a complete vision and understanding about the process.

The process Miriam has developed and teaches is very complex, and best for students with at least 3 years of experience with fusing. Students should have a good understanding of glass behavior and annealing; knowledge of Bullseye glass & frit as well as COE 90 glass.

Enjoy all the fun of an 8-week course in half the time. Explore the Tiffany method of stained glass while creating your very own panel from a variety of provided patterns. Learn the basic skills of cutting and shaping sheet glass, foiling, and soldering to create a panel you will proudly display.

Class time includes a 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch is not provided but we do have a refrigerator on site if needed.

Students in grades 6–12 take over Pittsburgh Glass Center in this intensive class. This one-week summer program introduces the science and art of glass to teens. It gives students the rare hands-on experience of learning the many facets of glass in one of the top facilities in the country. Sessions will include glassblowing, flameworking, kilnforming, and coldworking.

Find out more about the program schedule and Teen Boot Camp Policies 

Scholarships are available for all students! 

Scholarship Application Deadline: May 4, 2025.  APPLY ONLINE

Do you relish the idea of trying your hand at glass? Do you get geeked for gherkins? Then have a dill-ightful time making glass pickles. You will learn to heat and shape clear and colorful rods of glass with a 3,000-degree torch to create your own pickle ornament, pendant, or mini sculpture. This workshop will cover safety, torch operations, and sculpting techniques.

TEENS ONLY workshops are designed with teens in mind. Students get the opportunity to learn about the PGC studios with other teens. Sign up as an individual and meet other teens interested in glass or bring a friend to share in the experience. If you are interested in a more in-depth experience, check out our afterschool SiO2 classes, full day MOLTN workshop, or summer boot camp.

If you have never tried flameworking or want to have fun while you improve your current skill set, building strong foundational skills will help you in every way. Our class begins with a complete shop safety overview including setting up your regulators, hoses, and torch. Operating bench torches will be covered extensively as well as ventilation and glass handling/cutting. Annealing projects will be covered as well as any questions concerning personal studio set up.

We will cover small projects that build on each other to repeat and reaffirm muscle memory. Colorful glass and surface design techniques will be added slowly as you progress through a series of exercises designed to build a solid set of foundational skills. Small hollow techniques will be introduced early so you can decide if you prefer working hollow over solid. Your instructor will also have his bench roller slide set up for demonstrating scientific skills and how he builds and assembles his cups.

Learning, enjoyment, and fun are the goals of this class. All skill levels are welcome.

In this fast-paced course you will work on expanding your artistic potential using hot blow molds. You will use the mold shop and hot shop to make mold blown glass and sculpted components, which you will then have the option to re-incorporate into subsequent molds to create dynamic sculptural pieces.

Hot blow molds are a very accessible way to incorporate glass into a sculptural practice, and a great way to achieve texture and detail in hot glass. Class discussions will focus on collaboration and creative ways to use glass as a component of a multi-faceted art practice.

The class will start with an introduction to moldmaking and safety. You will make a simple mold from natural materials. After filling the molds with hot glass in the hot shop, we will demonstrate de-molding and basic coldworking techniques. Depending on experience and preference, you can use clay, natural materials, wax, paper, or other materials to create textures and forms that can be encased inside of a mold. Emphasis will be placed on experimentation and open mindedness rather than a specific hoped-for outcome. You are encouraged to use open studio hours when available.

Previous glassblowing, coldworking, sculpting, and/or moldmaking experience is helpful but not necessary. We believe that art can be a team activity and that everybody brings something to the table. This class will focus on expanding skill sets, not necessarily completing projects, and give you the ability to continue making hot blow molds in the future.

Creating truly unique stained glass requires standout, one-of-a-kind glass.

In this class, you will learn how to create blown glass works for specific use in stained glass panels. Covering mouth-blown sheet glass, rondels, and hand-pressed pieces, you will not only learn how to best make work in the hot shop but also adapt copper foil and lead channel to fit with the unique pieces.

You will create blown glass pieces and assemble them into copper foil and leaded panels in this five-day course touching upon all the aspects of making stained glass work with uniquely made blown glass.

Never design around glass available off the shelf at the local stained glass supply store again. Truly make your own stained glass, by making it hot!

Some experience in either stained glass or glassblowing is suggested, but there is no expectation for every student to have experience in both.

Feel the heat of the furnace on this hot date night. Get close to your date in the Hot Shop and work together with a local artist to transform molten glass into one glass flower. Choose your favorite colors and pull the molten material together into a beautiful flower.    

This unique date night experience allows each couple to work together in one of our studios and create one work of glass art together. Because it takes teamwork to sculpt, blow, or fuse glass, this is definitely a compatibility test. After your hands-on studio time, we’ll provide small bites and wine or beer.

Glassblowing and flameworking demonstrations will take place throughout the night.

$95/couple Ages 21+

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

Cozy up with some glass in the kiln shop for date night. Work together with your date to transform sheets, granules, and small rods of glass into one unique glass plate that you can use to serve your favorite crackers and cheese.

This unique date night experience allows each couple to work together in one of our studios and create one work of glass art together. Because it takes teamwork to sculpt, blow, or fuse glass, this is definitely a compatibility test. After your hands-on studio time, we’ll provide small bites and wine or beer. Glassblowing and flameworking demonstrations will take place throughout the night.

$95/couple Ages 21+

Each "seat" of registration is for one couple. 

Event, demonstrations, and refreshments end at 9:00PM.  If you register for a later glassmaking slot, we suggest arriving early to enjoy all this event has to offer.

This two-week class will focus on building studio practices that harmonize both the hot shop and cold shop. Both studios are vital to the creation of our individual bodies of work, each adding layers of depth and detail to the glass sculptures we create. During our time together we will take our creations (whether they’re full objects or prep-work) back and forth between two shops as we strive to reach our ultimate glass goals.

While in the hot shop we will cover an arsenal of techniques including both Swedish and stuffed-cup color overlays, cane and murrini, and hot sculpting. Through the layering of colors, we can later carve and build patterns, which can later return to the hot shop. In the cold shop, we will use various equipment with particular attention to the flat grinder, saw, and lathe in order to cut, texture, deconstruct, rebuild, and refine our works.

Class discussions will focus on the techniques covered and the vast ways they can be applied. Take this opportunity to learn from our two studio practices and how we integrate these hot/cold techniques regarding form, texture, and pattern.

In this class, we will be incorporating scientific glassblowing techniques into individual projects. We will primarily use borosilicate glass with a coefficient of expansion of 33. Other COE can be explored if time permits. Ring, blind, and side seals are a few of the scientific glassblowing techniques that will be covered, and projects will be scaled to your ability.

We will start with simple projects and build up to more complex items. Some projects include musical instruments, flowers, candelabras, and solid and hollow chains. Bring your ideas, and sketchbooks and be ready to push the limits of lampworking. After taking this class, you will have an understanding of how to put tubes in tubes, use solid with hollow tubing, and feel comfortable with flame adjustments.

Beth Hylen will join us so we will also cover some glass history. This class is open to all levels. Come and have a blast with Sally and Beth.

In this course, you will take a modular approach to kilncasting using small, repeating units to create larger models and molds. This not only makes more efficient use of time and materials, but also helps in the development of ideas.

The course will focus on relief casting and use three projects to look at how the modular approach can be used at different stages of the casting process. First, we’ll work with modular models, then silicone molds, and finally investment molds. From these projects, you will produce three small investment molds for casting in glass during the class. You’ll then have a chance to further develop a family of models and molds to take home and use for further work.

During the class, collage techniques will be the primary method of model making, showing that simple materials like cardboard and paper can be utilized to great effect. By contrast, the class will also demonstrate the positive impact digital technology can have on the casting process by increasing accuracy and expediting repetitive tasks. Georgia will bring some laser-cut elements which can be used for our model-making project. We’ll also be using a kit of three-dimensional printed parts to help with mold making. This kit can be purchased for a small charge after the class, if you find it useful.

We will complete at least one casting by Friday morning, allowing us to look at the divestment, coldworking, and display of our pieces. The other two castings should be ready later on Friday, but possibly Saturday morning.

The first three days of the course can be intense, as we need to get our project molds fired by the end of the course. This is certainly possible during the day, but using open studio, especially on Monday evening, will help make the class less pressured.

Though this class is designed with the intermediate student in mind, beginners who have experience with glass in other mediums, or other practical skills, are welcome.

Explore the wonderful world of murrine to create images in glass. You will learn the basics of three different techniques to build a cane. A cane is a rod of glass that has an image running all the way through it, much like an image that is created in old candies. The image can then be nipped or sliced and remelted into different glass projects. You will be taught to sculpt the glass three-dimensionally for a two-dimensional image. In this class we will focus on building ladybugs, bees, leaves, and flowers. The techniques can give you a great foundation in heat control to create almost any image you can dream of. We will then use our murrine (the slice or chip of a cane) to create layered glass beads and cabochons of a summer garden, learning how to not smear or distort the tiny chips. Join Jodie on this journey of making a miniature world in glass.

While this is a beginning murrine class, the student must be comfortable with turning on and melting glass at a torch.

In this hands-on class, we'll dive into the fascinating process of electroplating onto glass using an acid bath and copper. Designed specifically for glass artists, this class combines essential theory with practical application, making it suitable for glass workers of all skill levels and techniques.

Electroplating can be applied to a wide range of glass forms, including kilnformed, hot-worked, and torch-worked pieces, whether in soft or borosilicate glass. Beyond glass, we'll also explore electroplating on alternative materials like ceramics, three-dimensional prints, and organic objects, expanding your artistic toolkit with new techniques.

Due to the class setting, the size of electroplated items will be limited to hand-sized pieces, which is ideal for sampling and experimentation. You are encouraged to bring your own glass samples or other materials, such as three-dimensional prints, to work with (more details will be provided upon enrollment). Additionally, there will be an opportunity to create kilncast glass samples during the class.

We will explore how to integrate electroplating into different artistic practices, from small-scale jewelry applications to larger-scale setups. The class will cover essential technical aspects of the process, including health and safety considerations, through lectures, group discussions, and detailed handouts. You will learn how to set up and maintain electroplating tanks, and we'll cover equipment, the chemical makeup of the bath, and where to source materials.

We'll also discuss various methods of creating conductive paints and conclude with an overview of coldworking and metal finishing techniques tailored for electroplating on glass, including polishing and patinas.

The best way to move from beginner to intermediate in a skill is by repetition, experimenting with new methods, and by making mistakes. In this new 10-week class, you won’t be making one large panel—instead, you’ll learn to design patterns and make several smaller suncatchers focusing on new techniques and experimentation.

Techniques covered will include but are not limited to working with tricky types of glass, design considerations for structural integrity, incorporating found objects, decorative soldering, wire adornment, and utilizing coldworking tools like ring saws, flat lap grinders, and dremels.

This is a fast-paced intermediate level class. Students are required to have taken Introduction to Stained Glass at PGC or have equivalent experience with instructor approval. Glass cutting basics and foiling will not be covered. Students will occasionally be expected to complete entire projects during a single class session. We ask students to be comfortable working in stained glass ahead of the first session and be prepared to take part in open studio rental if unable to complete projects during class.

Stained Glass Open Studio is available on Mondays. Introduction to Stained Glass, or 24 hours of similar class experience and instructor permission is required.

Combine sculpting and moldmaking with the heat of the kiln to create cast glass sculptures. Begin by learning the basics of kilncast glass by creating small 3D objects then move on to making glass replicas of found objects. Explore silicones and other moldmaking materials and learn the lost wax casting process. Finally, you'll work with body-safe life-casting alginate and take a mold of your hand (or other body part) and turn it into glass. This class will cover model construction, refractory molds, glass preparation, firing, and resolving castings into finished works of art.

Class does not meet 10/14.

In this introductory class, you will learn the basics for working with flat colorful glass to cut, grind, foil, and solder. You'll explore the famous Tiffany method of construction and work with the provided patterns to create a finished stained glass panel ready for display. This class is designed for beginners. This class is a prerequisite for Intermediate Stained Glass.

Class does not meet 10/14.

Choose from a variety of patterns and learn the traditional technique of lead came. This technique is necessary to create a window that will be exposed to outdoor elements. Understanding this technique will allow you to feel comfortable moving forward with larger, more permanent stained glass creations.

Introduction to Stained Glass or 24 hours of stained glass experience is required.

Class does not meet 10/15.

Are you curious about the kiln shop? In Kiln 1, you will gain a broad understanding of the vast possibilities of kilnformed glass and explore 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 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 10/15.

Mixed and Mashed Up is a hands-on, glass making after-school program specifically for students in grades 6–8. Classes meet after school once a week for 12 sessions.    

Students will spend four sessions in three of Pittsburgh Glass Center’s premier glass art studios learning foundational glassblowing, flameworking, and kilnforming from professional teaching artists.  

In the hot shop, students will gather and shape glass from a 2,100-degree furnace. In the flame shop, students will melt, shape, and manipulate rods of glass over a 3,000-degree tabletop torch. In the kiln shop, students will explore the world of cutting and designing with flat glass and kilnforming, including casting, fusing, or stained glass.    

This program is designed with youth in mind. All studios focus on safety, confidence building with materials, and teaching foundational glassmaking skills to young artists. Sessions and content will vary and be adapted to students' interests and skills. This program can be and is often taken more than once.    

Students who participate in Mixed and Mashed up are invited to participate in a celebration and exhibition at the end of the semester and are also invited to show their work in a rotating display on Pittsburgh Glass Center’s third floor.    

PGC is committed to facilitating access for all young people. We offer full- and half-tuition scholarships for middle school and high school students based on application strength. No previous glass or art experience is required. Our only prerequisites are enthusiasm, curiosity, and an eagerness to learn.  

Class does not meet 11/26.

Apply now for a Scholarship here! 

In this introductory class, you will learn the basics for working with flat colorful glass to cut, grind, foil, and solder. You'll explore the famous Tiffany method of construction and work with the provided patterns to create a finished stained glass panel ready for display. This class is designed for beginners. This class is a prerequisite for Intermediate Stained Glass.

Class does not meet on 10/16.

Immerse yourself in the ancient and intricate art of glass mosaics. Arrange small pieces of sheet glass to create an image, pattern, or abstract design on a wooden or glass backing resulting in a stunning wall or window piece. Throughout this course, you will learn the basics of making a mosaic including glass cutting, layout, and design.

Class does not meet 10/16.

Learn flame shop essentials and a variety of creative techniques while working with  borosilicate (hard) glass. Begin with a solid rod of glass and melt it into a molten ball that can be manipulated into little treasures, such as pendants, marbles, chains, and sculptures. Over the course of 8 weeks, learn color application, hand control, and annealing. The instructor will also provide one-on-one troubleshooting.

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. 

Class does not meet on 9/26/25 AND 10/17/25.

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. You’ll 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. This will help you become familiar with the studio and learn the process of studio rental beyond class hours.

Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

Class does not meet on 9/26 and 10/17.

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 an understanding of the lamination process.

Class tuition includes 4 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. 

Class does not meet on 9/27 AND 10/18.

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 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.

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

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

Class does not meet on 9/27/2025 and 10/18/25.

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. You’ll 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. This will help you become familiar with the studio and learn the process of studio rental beyond class hours.

Open Studio is held on Monday Nights 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

Class does not meet on 9/27 and 10/18.

Enroll in Hot 2 and build on your existing skill set and expand your creative potential. Refine and diverge from the standard cup and bowl shape in the first few weeks before moving on to more complex forms. Explore basic color application methods and learn how to troubleshoot common problems. It is recommended that all students take this class a second time to continue to develop and refine basic skills before moving on to Advanced Hot Glass.  

Class tuition includes 2 hours of rental time per student 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.

Hot Glass 1, 24 hours of hot shop experience, or instructor permission is required.  

Class does not meet on 9/28/25 and 10/12/25.

This class will focus on more complex and specific techniques including the use of solid colors, mold-blowing, and the creation of compound shapes to create unique vessels. You will receive regular demonstrations, instructor-guided direction, and support to refine basic skills and methodology.  

You may wish to take this class more than once to deepen your skill and understanding of the material. Content may vary by session. Class tuition includes 2 hours of studio rental time to be used during the 8-week course period.  

Hot 2 or equivalent 48 hours experience, or instructor permission required. 

Class does not meet on 9/28/25 and 10/12/25.