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Classes  >>  Glass 



Our glass program includes hot and coldworking options. Lampworking (also known as flameworking) uses soft glass rods and an oxy-fuel torch to create beads and other small pieces. We also offer fundamental and project-based classes in stained glass, including sculptural and jewelry-scale techniques.

Click on the course name to see all class meeting dates, times, and course fee.

If you're looking for a Reheater option, select the class you'd like to Reheat and choose the appropriate fee when registering.

Please read these FAQs for details about what to bring/wear, refund policy, age requirements and more. We've also compiled a sensory rubric with more information about what to expect in a particular type of class. 

Joining a waitlist? Before you add yourself to a waitlist for a class that's full, it helps us if you're pretty certain you'll be available. If a spot becomes available, you'll be automatically registered and given about 24 hours to confirm your registration by paying. If we have a long list of folks who are no longer interested, it can be time-consuming to fill that spot. Thank you!

Upcoming classes

    • Sat, May 31, 2025
    • Sat, June 07, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 1
    Register

    Designed for beginner flameworkers, in this class you'll learn the basic flameworking techniques needed to create multiple types of implosions with borosilicate glass. Implosions are a popular glass technique that creates the appearance of a magnified design within clear glass, often used in making pendants and marbles. We will cover safety protocol, tool and equipment use, and beginner flameworking techniques. Through hands-on practice, you will explore how to manipulate the glass with the flame and embed colorful designs into clear glass. These implosions can later be used to create pendants or marbles. Wear long pants, closed toe shoes, and if your hair is long, put it up.

    $100 ($80 tuition + $20 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Ashley Austin 


    • Mon, June 02, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Learn how to make your own little critter in borosilicate glass! Borosilicate is the beefy cousin of soft glass. It's in the same family as Pyrex, allowing it to withstand multiple heat/cool cycles with minimal cracking and is commonly used to make vessels for laboratory experiments (aka scientific glass). Because it takes more heat to melt, it allows artists more time and control while sculpting with it. In this class, you'll learn how to light a torch, melt glass, and play with color and shape. You'll assemble and join components into a solid 3-D form, anneal your critter and give it a name if you'd like! No prior glass experience needed.

    Please note: Your little critter will be available to pick up two days after class, in order to give it time to complete the annealing process.

    $75 ($65 tuition + $10 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 

    • Sat, June 14, 2025
    • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 6
    Register

    Class extended to four hours by popular demand! Get more time on the torch!

    This class is a glass bead primer to get you acquainted with working a torch and Italian soft glass. You will learn safety protocol, tool and equipment use, and beginner flameworking techniques. Through hands-on practice, you'll explore glass manipulation, shaping techniques and surface decoration. Expect to go home with 4-6 beads and the flamework basics to explore more techniques with confidence. Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and bring a readiness to experiment!

    $80 ($70 tuition + $10 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann

    • Sun, June 15, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Open Torch Time is available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a lampworking class at CAFAC.

    Keep your chops up with regular Torch Time and share studio time with your fellow artisans! You supply the consumables (glass, mandrels, and bead release) and CAFAC will supply the torches and tools. We have space for up to six artisans, so sign up today to reserve your spot at the torch!

    $40

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann 

    • Sat, June 21, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 5
    Register

    Open Stained Glass Studio is available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a leaded stained glass class at CAFAC.

    This is your opportunity to get into the studio to work on projects or keep practicing your skills. You'll work independently with an instructor on hand if you have questions. You supply the consumables (glass, solder, etc) and CAFAC will supply the tools and equipment. 

    $40

    Instructor: Evalin Becker

    • Sun, June 22, 2025
    • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 1
    Register

    Celebrate Pride by learning to make your own stained glass Pride-themed suncatcher! This is an ideal project to learn the basics: how to read a stained glass pattern, cut glass, assemble and solder components, and patina and seal your finished project. Patterns will be provided and you can choose between three different styles of leaves. No prior stained glass experience needed. 

    $85 ($70 tuition + $15 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 

CHICAGO AVENUE FIRE ARTS CENTER   3749 Chicago Avenue  |  Minneapolis, MN 55407  |  612-294-0400  |  info@cafac.org 

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