With kilnformed or torchworked glass, the greatest difference between average work and exceptional work is how much is done to the glass after it leaves the kiln. Whether you’re working in cold glass, warm glass, or hot glass, this class will teach you how to use various coldworking techniques to elevate your work from passable to professional. You will learn how to safely and effectively use equipment for cutting, grinding, smoothing, and polishing glass. In addition to discussion and explanation of different techniques for cold finishing, both manually and with machines such as a disc grinder, hand grinder, rociprolap, vibrating lap, and wet belt sander, you will have personal hands on experience with a wet belt sander – the tool most glass artisans consider to be the most valuable and most versatile equipment for finishing glass. You will also learn how to drill glass and how to improve a finish with sandblasting or etching. Whether your goal is to learn how to reshape glass, improve the finish, or bring it to a fine polish, this class will teach you how.
Coldworking machines splash and spray water. Either wear old clothes or bring a smock or apron. If you have a small project (12” diameter or less) you would like to work on, bring it to the glass.