Learning Glass Blowing in Seattle, WA

Ever since Dale Chihuly took the world by storm with his glass blowing techniques to create fragile, intricate works of art, people in the Greater Seattle/Tacoma area have wanted to support their fellow Pacific Northwesterner. They have also wanted to learn his craft. Glass blowing is an ancient art form accessible to the modern world through several studios in the Seattle area. Here a few good ones for lessons, or to just go and watch the masters at work.

Seattle Glassblowing Studio, 2227 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121 Call (206)448-2181

This downtown art studio offers a plethora of glass related activities, from safe and exciting glassblowing lessons to glass bead making. The studio specializes in private commissions and unique, one of a kind designs, which you can see in their onsite gallery. Patrons are drawn by their incredible hand blown glass lighting and sinks, which are as beautiful as they are delicate. The studio is always open to the public, so go watch a session first to decide whether you would like to participate the next time. Seattle Glassblowing Studio also offers glassblowing seminars for groups of people, with catering offered from Café Amore. These classes are better suited to adults, due to the nature of what you are creating, and the proximity to dangerous equipment.

Art By Fire LTD 5465 Leary Avenue. NW, Seattle, WA, 98107 Call (206)789-1490

Art by Fire Studio is a great place for beginners to learn the fundamentals of manipulating class to create works of art. Their helpful, certified instructors will teach you the very basics to the very advanced, if you find that glass blowing appeals to you. Like a ceramics class, you will begin by building a basic paperweight, and move on to create more skilled pieces like bowls, goblets, and large, thin plates. All the instructors are either glass artists, or have been trained in the Pilchuck Glass School. Art by Fire is interested in training those that want to produce art for art's sake, as well as those interested in perfecting their skills to sell their pieces. Classes are 4 hours long, once per week. You can take glass blowing technique classes, as well as glass bead and jewelry classes. All classes require a 15 day cancellation notice, or else you will be charged a late fee.

Edge of Glass Studio, Fremont district, Seattle, WA, 98103

This studio features a gallery with works shown by local, rising glass artists. You'll see all different kind of glasswork, including blown glass, jewelry, and sand blast etched glass. After you visit the gallery, people interested in learning how to make similar masterpieces can sign up for weekend and evening classes. Whether you are a novice or n advanced student, this is a good place to go in order to learn proper methods of handling liquid glass over 2000 degrees Fahrenheit in temperature. Class size is 2 students per teacher, so you will get your instructor's undivided attention and guidance. This is ideal for safety and procedures. Teachers are professional glass artists, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about their art form. Sessions are 6 weeks long, with four hour long classes. This is one of your best options for a hands on experience with glass blowing.