SiO2 Flameworking is a hands-on, after school program specifically for students in grades 9 – 12. Classes meet once a week for 10 sessions.  

Over the course of the session, high school-aged students will work closely with professional teaching artists to learn and practice flameworking and flame shop basics.    

Students will learn how to use the 3,000-degree tabletop torch, the heat it generates, and gravity to shape molten glass. They will learn about borosilicate, a hard glass with a high melting point that can be used to make a variety of small sculptures, jewelry, and more. Young artists are encouraged to bring their creativity to the torch.    

This program is designed with youth in mind. The course focuses 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. We encourage our students from Mixed and Mashed Up to level up to this program, but no previous experience is required.    

Students who participate in SiO2 Flameworking 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.  

Apply now for a Scholarship here!