Try-it! classes

Introductory level glass making classes, geared toward the novice who would like to experience what it means to manipulate glass.

Each individual Try-iT! course will spend 3 hours focused upon a few fundamentals specific to the type of glass used and the technique highlighted. While each class highlights different elements, techniques from each class will contribute to a better understanding - and may be applied - to a wide expanse of glass craft techniques. All Try-iT! classes are $95 for a 3-hour class.

We currently offer four different Try-iT! level classes at the shop: 

Borosilicate glass gets its name from the element boron which is added as a flux to create an American hard glass. A melt that occurs at a hotter temperature, boro is well suited for sculptural glass endeavors. In this class students will create a small paperweight, smash a gather into an icicle ornament and experiment with blowing a small object.

Students will learn the basics of gathering up molten glass from the torch and applying it onto a mandrel. Once our beads are made we will create stringers and apply decoration to our beads. Expect to make between 6 and 12 beads depending on your working style.

Cast Glass Magnets

Apply colorful glass powders to a mold, charge the mold with glass, and fire it to cast your glass into various shapes and sculptural options--to create a one-of-a-kind cast glass magnet in the kiln.

Kiln  

Simple to start, endless in it’s potential; kiln forming is to glass what conducting is to instruments. In this course students will learn to cut patterns our of sheet glass, make frit, and work with a variety of glass formats by combining them in the kiln to produce tiles, pendants and small art objects.

Beginner classes

Beginner classes are project-based, all-day workshops (10am-5pm, with a 1-hour lunch break). Instructed often by visiting artists as well as in-studio staff, these classes are formulated to be appropriate for the beginning to intermediate level glass-worker. Participants in beginner classes need to have either taken a Try-iT! class or have some previous experience with glass. These workshops will facilitate an opportunity for students to focus on a specific technique, through personalized instruction and core projects. 

Intermediate 

classes

Local artists at the top of their field reveal their secrets in these annual workshops.

Open Kiln & Torch

Now three times a month, Potekglass offers an Open Torch for folks who like to meet, greet, and work the flame.  A four-hour session of work time for only $35. Register online and join us at the shop to show off your stuff, get inexpensive practice, or just commune with your fellow craftsmen and women.

Torchers need only provide glass and specific project supplies (i.e, mandrels, bead release).  Torch, safety glasses and student tool set provided. Glass, mandrels, bead release and tools may be purchased at the studio.

Youth Classes

Potekglass offers introductory classes to students in elementary and middle school.  Students can participate as a class or individually. 

Membership

Potekglass Annual Membership Benefits
$110/year

Members receive... 

·$25 Open Torch and Open Kiln sessions
·10% off hourly torch rental/punch cards
·10% off all glass supplies (excludes tools)
·10% off all Intermediate, Master, and Visiting Artist classes
·$25 off yearly locker rental (reg. $75/year)
·$15 off 6-month locker rental (reg. $50/6-months)
·50% off Try-iT! Gift Certificates year-round

Members will receive a membership card, valid for 1 year after purchase date.
Enter your member number at check-out to receive discounts on online purchases.
Present your membership card at the shop to receive in-shop discounts.

Team Work of Art

Your company’s targets and core values will guide the group in developing a meaningful piece of art made for display in your place of work.

More information about Team Work of Art

Please contact us directly to book at (612) 281-7243 or email info@potekglass.com

Group and private lessons

Interested in having Potekglass host your next company event, family workshop or group class with your friends?

Sign up with a group and receive special rates. You can choose from any of the Try-iT! Classes (Kiln, Boro, or Italian Soft).  Perfect for special get-togethers, parties, or just for fun.  The more friends you bring, the more you save!

Group Class Rates for torchwork classes 

5-6 people: 30% discount $66.50/person

7-8 people: 40% discount $57.00/person

9-10 people: 50% discount $47.50/person

Group Class Rates for kiln classes

5-6 people: 30% discount $71.25/person

7-8 people: 40% discount $66.50/person

9-10 people: 50% discount $57.00/person

11-20 people: 55% discount $47.50/person

Scheduling for group classes is subject to studio space availability. Torchwork classes have a maximum capacity of 10, while up to 20 may be accommodated in a Kiln class. Please plan to schedule your class at least 30 days in advance for best availability.

Private lessons

Customize your glass experience.  With over 20 years of experience in glass, there are many techniques and projects Malcom can prepare you for and guide you through.  From designing and producing your own tiles and lighting in the kiln to techniques on the torch Malcom has experience that only a select few can match.

$95 /hr + materials for larger projects