Glassblowing – April 14
Location: Glasslight Studios, Saint Peters (directions)
Instructor: Joel Bless
Skill Level: Intro/Refresher (though all skill levels welcome)
Work with molten glass! In this fast-paced and friendly course, students will learn to ‘gather’ glass and create blown & solid forms with an emphasis on safety. Joel Bless and fellow glassblowers begin the workshop with a discussion of mechanics, materials, and safety . Next is a demonstration of hot-glass techniques students will be using during the day, and students have the day to create their own glass pieces.
Students work one-on-one with instructors learning how to gather, marver, blow, shape, color, and finish a punteed piece. Giving each student several chances to blow glass, the class allows the students to experience the basics and begin to play with form and color for an unforgettable experience. Each student will have the opportunity to make three to four pieces.
Supply List:
- Closed toed shoes
- Long sleeves (cotton)
- Sun glasses
- Long hair should be tied back
- Jeans
- Please bring a lunch
*Work can be picked up in three days after the class, or affordable shipping is available.
To register, click ‘Register Now‘ above or call 717-431-8706. For inquiries email handmade@pacrafts.org
Biography: Joel Bless first began working with hot glass at the Rochester Institute of Technology in the early 1970s in the School of American Craftsmen’s newly opened glassblowing program. Having been interested in lighting from an early age, he found it natural to incorporate glassblowing and light. By 1977, he had built his own hot shop and was producing vases and lamps, which he sold through craft shows around the country. In 1985, together with his wife Candace Luke-Bless, he moved to St. Peters, PA, set up a larger glassblowing studio and showroom, and began training other artists.
