Lampwork Beads I: - Georgia Van Zyle
Class | Available
LAMPWORK I
INSTRUCTOR: GEORGIA VAN ZYLE
Unlock the mesmerizing world of lampwork beadmaking in this hands-on class designed for lampwork glass artists with little or no previous experience. Discover the ancient art of transforming molten glass into beautiful beads using a torch and a variety of tools and techniques. Cotton clothing, didymium glasses, and closed-toe shoes are required.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of Lampwork: Understand the history, materials, and safety protocols essential for working with glass.
- Basic Techniques: Master the core skills of shaping, decorating, and annealing glass beads. You will make and use stringers, frit, twisties, and dots. You will distort the surface of a bead, apply murrini and encase a bead.
- Tool Mastery: Gain proficiency with torches, mandrels, and other specialized equipment.
- Artistic Expression: Develop your style and creativity, producing beads that reflect your artistic vision.
Class Structure:
- Introduction and Safety Briefing: Comprehensive overview of safety measures and equipment handling. Overview of setting up your own beadmaking studio.
- Demonstrations: Step-by-step demonstrations of techniques by an experienced instructor accompanied by handouts.
- Hands-On Practice: Ample studio time to practice and refine your beadmaking skills with individual guidance. You will work at your own propane/oxygen torch in our ventilated studio.
- Project Work: Create a series of beads, culminating in a final project that showcases your learned skills.
- Feedback and Review: Constructive feedback sessions to help you improve and develop your technique.
Materials Provided for Use in Class:
- Glass rods (104 COE) in various colors are included in your class fee.
- Torches and fuel
- Mandrels and bead release
- Assorted tools and safety equipment. Didymium glasses are provided.
Take Home:
- A collection of your handmade glass beads
- A deeper appreciation and understanding of lampwork beadmaking
- The skills to continue creating beautiful beads at home
Join us for a journey into the art of lampwork beadmaking and leave with not only beautiful beads but also the knowledge and confidence to create more on your own. If you have any questions please contact me at gvanzyle@yahoo.com.
Class Fee: $100 includes everything you will need in class.
Prerequisites: None
Georgia Van Zyle
Georgia retired from a 37-year career as a special-needs teacher. In 2007, she began taking classes at William Holland. Making Lampwork beads is her passion. She assisted in classes and began instructing classes at William Holland in 2016. Her work has been published in Soda Lime Times, an e-magazine for lampworkers and Reactive Twisties + Murrini, an e-book. She is a member of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers.