Intro to Boro: Glass Twists and Things with Alex Utts

Have fun with flame in this beginner-friendly workshop as you learn to twist molten borosilicate glass into dazzling ornaments and pendants! This 3-hour introduction to flameworking covers essential torch safety and techniques for shaping glass. Students will melt and sculpt glass rods to create elegant glass twists – spiraling decorative pieces perfect for hanging in a window, on a holiday tree, or even in your car. After getting the basics of twisting down, the class will also explore simple pendant designs in a few different styles. From swirled drops to charming coils, you’ll learn how to form loops and decorative touches to turn your glass creations into wearable art or one-of-a-kind keepsakes. In addition, you’ll discover how to use a polariscope to identify stress in your glass – an important skill to ensure your pieces are properly cooled (annealed) and durable. By the end of the class, each student will have one or two handmade glass pieces to take home and display with pride.

What to expect: Working with hot glass takes practice, but it’s tons of fun! After demonstrations by the instructor, expect to make 1–2 successful pieces during this class (along with a few experimental attempts as you learn the ropes). Don’t worry if not every attempt is perfect – learning to control heat and gravity is all part of the process, and even the wonky shapes will build your skills. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page.

While flameworking, participants primarily engage in seated activities such as working with glass rods and torches. The environment can be bright and loud at times. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Eligibility: No experience required. This introductory class is open to absolute beginners. Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight, so the students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work.

We recommend registering for classes early to reserve your spot! We base materials, and teacher needs off of student enrollment. Early registration not only guarantees your spot in class, but also helps to ensure the class will run. Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled within two weeks of the start date of class. Contact our Registrar of Education, Ari Eshoo, at arianna@urbanglass.org if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.

1 Session, Friday, September 12, 6-9pm

Instructor: Alex Utts