We have a long standing reputation for excellent stained glass classes, packed with information and inspiration! The radiance of stained glass has been around for centuries. As a craftsperson we are sure you will find its process and modern day possibilities just as luminescent. We teach both the traditional leaded stained glass technique, and the Louis Tiffany copper foil technique. Most stained glass classes are taught one-on-one and classes are ongoing - call today to begin!
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Beginning Copper Foil Method
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Tuition: $175.
This course covers the stained glass method established by Louis Comfort Tiffany at the turn of the 20th century. Students will construct a small panel and suncatcher, learning to build to a frame and a freeform edge. Techniques cover pattern making, cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, framing, reinforcement, edge-soldering. Students will leave course with all knowledge necessary to continue the craft on their own. All materials and tools are provided in the cost of the class to give students the opportunity to single out their tools of preference. This class is the pre-requisite to all other stained glass courses and workshops. It takes approximately 10 total hours to complete the course, time is broken up into multiple sessions. Classes are ongoing so call today to make your appointment to start. Ages 14+.
Beginning Lead Construction
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Pre-requisite: Beginning Copper Foil
Tuition: $85 + materials.
Techniques taught in the Lead Construction Class are based on the European leaded style. Beginning Copper Foil is a pre-requisite to the Lead class because it builds on accuracy of techniques begun in Copper Foil Method. Materials Cost varies on choices of student such as intricacy of pattern and style of glass used. All tools will be provided during shop hours, if student wishes to begin working on their panel at home they will need to invest in their own tools. It takes approximately 10 total hours to complete the course, time is broken up into multiple sessions. Classes are ongoing so call today to make your appointment to start. Ages 14+.
Intermediate & Advanced Stained Glass
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Pre-requisite: Beginning Copper Foil
Tuition: $85 + materials.
Challenge yourself with a more intricate design and gain confidence in yourself and the use of your basic tools while also learning and practicing with new tools on the market. Beginning Copper Foil class is a prerequisite. For the advanced class, hone your skills in copper foil and lead construction techniques building a panel that combines each. 6-8 hours per class, time is broken up into multiple sessions, outside work necessary. Classes are ongoing so call today to make your appointment to start. Ages 14+.
Workshop: Decorative Soldering
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Pre-requisite: Beginning Copper Foil
Tuition: $45
Advance your soldering and 3-D construction skills in copper foil by building a four panel open box. Utilize many different decorative soldering techniques as you assemble your box. Approximately 3 hour workshop. Scheduled in small groups.
Workshop: Panel Lamps
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Pre-requisite: Beginning Copper Foil
Tuition: $95 + materials
Advance your 3-D construction skills in copper foil by building a panel lamp. In several sessions this project addresses design, strength, grinding and assembly for 3-D construction. Scheduled individually or in small groups, call to make an appointment.
Stepping Stones
Instructor: Colleen McElfresh, Owner and Artist of Bluebird Studio
Pre-requisite: Beginning Copper Foil
Tuition: $95.
Create an 8-inch round or square stepping stone - Learn to cut/fit glass pieces to pattern, mix and pour quick-set mosaic cement and seal your creation against the elements. (Ages 14+). Classes ongoing, schedule individually or with a small group.
For any student who has completed a class with us, we understand that good studio space can be hard to find and are happy to share our classroom space when room is available. Call to make an appointment when studio space is available. Studio space includes an area at the classroom table and basic tools. Rates are as follows:
$10/hour for studio time with no assistance
$15/hour for studio time with assistance