Updated February 13, 2012

Registration now open.

Classes and workshops at Vitrum Studio are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and they fill very quickly. Please register early to insure a place in the course(s) you would like to take.

Email your registration!
We now can accept class registrations via email!  Simply email us and let us know which class you are interested in. We will reply  to confirm receipt of your email, and to let you know what information we need to complete your application.

Applications are also accepted by phone, fax or US mail, and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.  We require a completed application and paid deposit to insure your registration for a course. Please complete the Application Form (in PDF format) and mail or fax it to us.

Vitrum Studios
6824 Industrial Drive, Studio #105
Beltsville, Maryland, 20705

You can register in person, by phone(301-595-0736) by fax(301-595-0081) or by email: vitrum@vitrumstudio.com

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
This class is offered again in April & June, see below.
Introduction to Kilnformed Glass
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

February 4 & 5, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

This two-day introductory workshop is designed with the beginner in mind and will guide you through an exploration of the possibilities of fused and slumped glass. We will demonstrate the basics of glass cutting, explain the various steps of a firing schedule and discuss the importance of glass compatibility and annealing. You will be able to experiment with design possibilities using a wide variety of frit, stringers, confetti, sheet glass and iridized glass in the Bullseye Glass palette.

During the class you will create a set of example tiles and two fused and slumped bowls. Our goal is to introduce you to both the technical and artistic side of the medium of kilnformed glass. Tuition includes all materials and the use of basic tools.

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NEW! Fun and Funky Hearts
Anne Paynter-Hill, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $145
Beginner level.

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
February 4, 2012
Saturday, 10am to 4pm

or

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
February 5, 2012
Sunday, 10am to 4pm

This one-day workshop will introduce you to several methods of making heart-themed jewelry pieces just in time for Valentine giving! Using both pre-fused glass blanks and sheet glass, you will create three heart-shaped pins or pendants, and a pair of heart-themed earrings.  We will demonstrate simple techniques with dichroic glass to create different effects and enhance the heart shape. You will learn to use some basic coldworking techniques to shape your blanks, and how to fire polish for a professional look. 

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This class is now full, but a wait list is available.
Landscapes in Kilnformed Glass
Miriam Di Fiore, Independent Artist

Tuition $1095 - Deposit $550
Advanced level.

February 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12, 2012
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
10am-4pm each day

Click here to see more of Miriam's incredible kilnformed landscapes.

Miriam will demonstrate the basic process used in creating her pieces, and will guide students through a step by process of translating a landscape photograph (chosen by Miriam) into a kilnformed glass image with extreme realism and depth. A second photograph from Miriam's collection will be chosen by the class and students will use this as inspiration for the creation of a second kilnformed panel.

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This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Dramatic Drop-formed Vessels
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $350 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

February 18 & 25, 2012
Two Consecutive Saturdays, 10am to 4pm each day

This two-day class will be held on two consecutive Saturdays to allow for the more involved firing that is required.

Drop-formed vessels are made by slumping a piece of glass through a ring-shaped mold that is suspended in a kiln.  This technique allows for the creation of deep bowls and vases with a decidedly soft and fluid form, characteristics more akin to blown glass than to kilnformed glass. 

You will have the opportunity to design and fabricate two drop forms during class, one large and one small. We will discuss various mold options, and will have a wide variety of finished bowls and vases to inspire you. We will also have several drop-formed vessels in various stages of the slumping process so that you can observe the actual movement of the glass during the firing. During the second day of class, you will coldwork and finish the slumped forms created on the first day.

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bird:wing
Ursula Marcum

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Elements and Principles of Design 101
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

February 18 & 19, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

There is a particular language that artists and designers use to articulate their processes and their work. Understanding this “visual vocabulary” will help you to plan and implement good design. Using pens, pencils, paper and glue, this low-key workshop is a solid introduction to the terminology and practice of these ideas.

Please note: This class is a pre-requisite for Elements and Principles of Design for Kilnformers, where these ideas will be applied specifically to glass.

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This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Dramatic Drop-formed Vessels
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $350 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

February 19 & 26, 2012
Two Consecutive Sundays, 10am to 4pm each day

This two-day class will be held on two consecutive Sundays to allow for the more involved firing that is required.

Drop-formed vessels are made by slumping a piece of glass through a ring-shaped mold that is suspended in a kiln.  This technique allows for the creation of deep bowls and vases with a decidedly soft and fluid form, characteristics more akin to blown glass than to kilnformed glass. 

You will have the opportunity to design and fabricate two drop forms during class, one large and one small. We will discuss various mold options, and will have a wide variety of finished bowls and vases to inspire you. We will also have several drop-formed vessels in various stages of the slumping process so that you can observe the actual movement of the glass during the firing. During the second day of class, you will coldwork and finish the slumped forms created on the first day.

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Fun and Funky Jewelry
Anne Paynter-Hill, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

February 25 & 26, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

We've finally persuaded Anne to share some of the very innovative techniques that she uses in creating her gallery jewelry. 

In this NEW WORKSHOP we'll show you how to make kilnformed glass components that are fired, then assembled into a wide variety of possible combinations. These same techniques can be used for designs that range from wild and funky to clean, classic and sophisticated.

We'll supply all the inspiration, materials, metals and firings to make a variety of jewelry pieces. We'll show you what wire to use and why, and how to effectively design on a smaller scale to make unique jewelry.

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Fusing for Contemporary Glass Jewelry
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner/Intermediate level.

March 3 & 4, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

Working in a professional glass studio, you will create fused glass pendants, earrings, and pins in this introductory workshop while learning to exploit the transparency, depth, and sparkle of glass.

You will be introduced to the techniques of layering colored glass, using dichroic coatings, shaping blanks with saws and grinders, and using multiple firings to create a professional look on the finished pieces. You will also be introduced to basic wire wrapping and jewelry construction techniques on the second day.

Discussions will include setting up a basic home studio for small scale jewelry fusing and coldworking. Tuition includes all materials and the use of basic tools.

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Introduction to Precious Metal Clay
Judith Conway, Owner/Artist at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $165
Beginner level.

Register for both this course and PMC-Hollow Forms at the special rate of $310!

Saturday, March 3, 2012
10am to 5pm

This one-day course is an introduction to working with Precious Metal Clay (PMC). You will learn about the various types of PMC, and the methods of construction each is best suited for.  Working with PMC, you will learn to roll, texture, shape, and finish a pair of earrings and a lentil bead pendant.

PMC is composed of fine particles of pure silver in an organic clay-like binder. When the PMC is fired, the organic binder burns away, leaving .999 pure silver.  It can be shaped and textured with ease when it is in its clay form, and provides the jewelry artist with an amazing versatility.

The use of tools and enough PMC+ for the class projects will be provided. Extra PMC will be available from Vitrum Studio at market price.

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Precious Metal Clay: Hollow Forms
Judith Conway, Owner/Artist at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $165
Intermediate level.

Register for both this course and Intro to PMC at the special rate of $310!

Sunday, March 4, 2012
10am to 5pm

In this intermediate level course you will learn to make simple hollow beads in a variety of techniques and shapes. We will sketch out designs for beads, then texture and form the PMC around a variety of core materials. Special emphasis will be on consideration of the final usage of the object, and shaping and finishing for quality craftsmanship.

The use of tools and enough PMC for the class projects will be provided. Extra PMC will be available from Vitrum Studio at market price.

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This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Introduction to Glass Bead Making
Judith Conway, Owner/Artist at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

March 10 & 11, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

Explore the ancient art of making glass beads at a torch. Using the Hot Head® torch and Bullseye compatible glass rods, you will learn to make basic glass beads, and then progress to making various shapes - square beads, fish beads, dotted beads, etc. We will cover all the fundamental techniques for creating successful glass beads at a torch, including studio set-up, and safety considerations. All materials needed for the class will be provided.

A Basic Bead Making Kit will be available for a special price of $150. It contains everything you need to continue to make glass beads at home, including 10 glass rods of your choice.

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Shadowland
Richard Parrish

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Working in Shallow Space:
Bas Relief in Kilnformed Glass
Richard Parrish, Independent artist

Tuition $895 - Deposit $450
Advanced level

March 17, 18, 19 & 20, 2012
Saturday, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday, 10am to 5pm each day

Click here to see more of Richard's Bas Relief Panels.

Bas relief is found in the art and architecture of all cultures and has existed for thousands of years.  It is a kind of carving or sculpture in which the figures are raised or depressed slightly from a flat background to give a three-dimensional effect.  Subtle changes in the levels of the surface and the interplay of light and shadow on the planes enable us to see and appreciate the composition.  

This class explores the rich possibilities of working in relief in kilnformed glass.  Simple materials such as fiber paper are used to create complex forms, shapes and textures.  Intricate surface relief, texture, color and light interactions are possible in “shallow space.”  The workshop will include a brief survey of the use of relief in art and architecture throughout history.  Sheet glass, frit and powder are the primary glass materials used.  Coldworking techniques will be used to create additional textures and to finish the work.  Numerous reference samples will be made in preparation for a comprehensive final project.

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here
Richard Parrish

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Working in Shallow Space:
Bas Relief in Kilnformed Glass
Richard Parrish, Independent artist

Tuition $895 - Deposit $450
Advanced level

March 22, 23, 24 & 25, 2012
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 5pm each day

Bas relief is found in the art and architecture of all cultures and has existed for thousands of years.  It is a kind of carving or sculpture in which the figures are raised or depressed slightly from a flat background to give a three-dimensional effect.  Subtle changes in the levels of the surface and the interplay of light and shadow on the planes enable us to see and appreciate the composition.  

This class explores the rich possibilities of working in relief in kilnformed glass.  Simple materials such as fiber paper are used to create complex forms, shapes and textures.  Intricate surface relief, texture, color and light interactions are possible in “shallow space.”  The workshop will include a brief survey of the use of relief in art and architecture throughout history.  Sheet glass, frit and powder are the primary glass materials used.  Coldworking techniques will be used to create additional textures and to finish the work.  Numerous reference samples will be made in preparation for a comprehensive final project.

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NEW! The Sampling Series: Silver & Glass
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $145 - Deposit $75
Intermediate level.

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
March 24, 2012
Saturday, 10am to 3pm

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
March 25, 2012
Sunday, 10am to 3pm

This is the second in our new series of one-day workshops that will offer students the opportunity for the focused study of kiln formed glass through sample making.

In the “Silver and Glass” workshop, the class will discuss and experiment with combinations of Bullseye Glass and silver foil.and the magical reactions that occur when these two are fused together. Students will have access to the full Bullseye sheet glass palette as we examine and discuss the way the silver reacts with the base glass, and how combining the two and selectively covering part of the silver creates a whole new color surprise!

The usefulness of sample making and best practices, along with storage solutions, will be covered.  Both experienced kiln formers and those new to the art form will benefit.

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This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Creating Imagery with Powders
Judith Conway and Kevin O'Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $325 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

March 31 & April 1, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 5pm each day

Understanding how to use glass powders effectively allows you to think about glass and glass design in a completely new way. You can break out of the limits of sheet glass as you become more painterly in your work, using soft lines and shading rather than the harder lines of cut glass pieces. You can mix and overlay powders to create new colors and subtle hues. We will demonstrate how to make powder wafers to create realistic details in your work.

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Introduction to Kilnformed Glass
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

April 6 & 7, 2012
Friday & Saturday, 10am to 4pm

This two-day introductory workshop is designed with the beginner in mind and will guide you through an exploration of the possibilities of fused and slumped glass. We will demonstrate the basics of glass cutting, explain the various steps of a firing schedule and discuss the importance of glass compatibility and annealing. You will be able to experiment with design possibilities using a wide variety of frit, stringers, confetti, sheet glass and iridized glass in the Bullseye Glass palette.

During the class you will create a set of example tiles and two fused and slumped bowls. Our goal is to introduce you to both the technical and artistic side of the medium of kilnformed glass. Tuition includes all materials and the use of basic tools.

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This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
New Traditions in Pattern Bars
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $350 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

April 14 & 21, 2012
Two Consecutive Saturdays, 10am to 4pm each day

This class will convene on two consecutive Saturdays to allow for the extended firing times required for the bars made on the first day of class.

Pattern bars are thick fused slabs, generally built out of multiple layers of colored sheet glass. These bars are most often cut into thin cross sections, exposing repeating patterns that can be used as design elements in fused glass panels and bowls.   We will use several traditional methods to construct basic pattern bars, then these bars will be the raw material for the primary focus of the class: exploring new and intriguing ways of using them.   The bars will be sliced, diced, cubed and arranged in non-traditional  ways that exploit glass’s ability to flow.

This class is equally valuable to the kiln former completely new to the construction techniques of pattern bars, since basic techniques will be demonstrated and  explored, and will also be of great interest to more experienced fusers who are seeking new ways of using pattern bars in their own work.

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pattern bar
Melissa Tomlinson

This session is now full, but a wait list is available.
Pushing the Pattern Bar: Advanced Techniques
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $350 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

April 15 & 22, 2012
Two Consecutive Sundays, 10am to 4pm each day

This class will convene on two consecutive Sundays to allow for the extended firing times required by the complex bars made on the first day of class.

Pattern bars have long been one of the basic techniques in kilnformed glass, and they still prove to be a great way to introduce visual texture and complex pattern into your kilnformed work.   Several different techniques for constructing pattern bars will be demonstrated, and you will have the opportunity to create several projects of your own design over the course of the class. Good design, attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship will be emphasized. We will take advantage of the cold shop to give our pieces a finished, professional look, and will encourage you to make thoughtful projects that are carefully considered from beginning to end.

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The Complete Bowl:
Fusing, Slumping & Coldworking
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $325 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

April 28 & 29, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

This two-day workshop is designed to take the intermediate kilnfomer though all the steps necessary to create a professionally-finished kilnformed (fused and slumped) bowl or plate.
We will discuss commercially-available mold selections for shaping glass in the kiln - ceramic, stainless steel, etc. We will explore design directions we might take to create a fused glass bowl blank, and each student will design and create his own bowl. We will also learn to use coldworking equipment to finish the edges of the fused blank and demonstrate the steps necessary to create a variety of surface finishes - how to “Flip ‘n Fire”, how to create a fingerprint-proof matte surface, and more. We will also cover the techniques and tricks for successfully shaping the fused blank in a mold.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Kilnformed Glass course or permission of the instructor.

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Mapping the Surface:
Cold Working the Glass Object
Kevin O’Toole & Jeff Peirce, Vitrum Studio Instructors

Tuition $325 - Deposit $175
Intermediate level.

May 5 & 6, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

In this two-day workshop we will explore various surface treatments and cold-working techniques that can elevate the ordinary glass object to the extraordinary. Hone your coldworking skills and learn to successfully use the glass lathe, diamond lap wheel, wet belt sander, diamond saw and sandblaster.
Each student will have an opportunity to use every tool demonstrated in class to create a complex sampler of surface treatments. Students will also take an ordinary clear kilnformed glass bowl and transform it into an elegant coldworked object.
Note: You must complete this course before you can rent time on our diamond lap wheels or glass engraving equipment.

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The Reactive Colors
Judith Conway & Kevin O’Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $525 - Deposit $250
Intermediate level.

May 11, 12 & 13, 2012
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

This is an intensive introduction to working with glass colors that chemically react with each other during the fusing or flameworking process.

Vitrum Studio’s staff members and many of its visiting instructors have long used these color reactions to great effect in their own personal work, and now we’ve brought together the information we have learned into a comprehensive course on this fascinating aspect of kilnforming.

Students will begin by creating sample charts of the reactive glasses as a reference for their home studios.  They will also create samples exploring the potential of these reactive glass combinations and finally will complete a larger kilnformed composition that incorporates color reactions as a part of the design.

We will have access to Bullseye Glass’ already large palette of reactive glass colors, stringers and rods (including the luster rods), silver foil, as well as their recently developed Reactive Cloud White and Reactive Clear Ice during the workshop.

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A Sense of Place
Judith Conway and Kevin O'Toole, Owners/Artists at Vitrum Studio

Tuition $525 - Deposit $250
Intermediate level.

May 18, 19, & 20, 2012
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

In this three-day workshop, students will explore a variety of thoughtful techniques to create kiln-formed components that will be used to convey the essence of the environment around them. Students will be exposed to a body of techniques designed to soften and ease the edge, blur the line, and convey a sense of natural beauty while respecting the natural properties of glass -- transparency and translucency.

Design components will be kiln-fired, then manipulated using both hot and cold techniques and selectively combined in the projects. For the student with a knowledge of fusing who is interested in exploring new techniques in the medium.

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Introduction to Kilnformed Glass
Ursula Marcum, Vitrum Studio Instructor and Independent Artist

Tuition $295 - Deposit $150
Beginner level.

June 2 & 3, 2012
Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm each day

This two-day introductory workshop is designed with the beginner in mind and will guide you through an exploration of the possibilities of fused and slumped glass. We will demonstrate the basics of glass cutting, explain the various steps of a firing schedule and discuss the importance of glass compatibility and annealing. You will be able to experiment with design possibilities using a wide variety of frit, stringers, confetti, sheet glass and iridized glass in the Bullseye Glass palette.

During the class you will create a set of example tiles and two fused and slumped bowls. Our goal is to introduce you to both the technical and artistic side of the medium of kilnformed glass. Tuition includes all materials and the use of basic tools.

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