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Copper foil and leaded stained glass, lampworking and borosilicate torchworking.

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

Current & Upcoming classes

  • Stained Glass: Copper Foil Fundamentals

    • Mon, August 17, 2026
    • Mon, September 28, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Learn the basics of stained glass and add some color and sparkle to your life! This class will introduce the basics of stained glass using the copper foil technique, which involves wrapping each glass piece in copper tape and then soldering the pieces together to form the whole. You'll learn and practice all the steps in the process of creating stained glass pieces, including using patterns, cutting and grinding glass, foiling, and soldering. We'll start with 2D pieces and you'll have the opportunity to explore 3D forms. As we progress, you're encouraged to bring your own ideas and the instructor will assist in translating them into stained glass.

    $320 ($270 tuition + $50 materials)  |  6 weeks
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 


    Show details

  • Open Torch Time: Borosilicate Glass

    • Sat, September 19, 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 4
    Register

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

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

    $45

    Instructor: Ashley Austin

    Show details

  • Encaustic Image Transfer onto Glass

    • Sun, September 20, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    This workshop accompanies for Samael Leopold-Sullivan's solo exhibit, "A Cage So Light You Hardly Feel It," showing in the CAFAC gallery from July 23 to September 23.

    In this all-levels workshop you'll learn how to prepare a glass panel with a lead-free soldered border and then use clear encaustic wax to transfer a laser-printed image onto the glass. Bring your own 5x7 or smaller laser-printed images (you may bring several images; the scale and how fast you work will determine how many you can complete during class).

    $60
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan


    This Cultural Districts Art Fund program activity is funded, in part, by the Arts & Cultural Affairs Department in the City of Minneapolis
    Show details

  • Hot Glass, Cool Beads: Italian Glass Bead Sampler

    • Sat, September 26, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    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

    Show details

  • Stained Glass: Copper Foil Fundamentals

    • Mon, October 05, 2026
    • Mon, November 09, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 4
    Register

    Learn the basics of stained glass and add some color and sparkle to your life! This class will introduce the basics of stained glass using the copper foil technique, which involves wrapping each glass piece in copper tape and then soldering the pieces together to form the whole. You'll learn and practice all the steps in the process of creating stained glass pieces, including using patterns, cutting and grinding glass, foiling, and soldering. We'll start with 2D pieces and you'll have the opportunity to explore 3D forms. As we progress, you're encouraged to bring your own ideas and the instructor will assist in translating them into stained glass.

    $320 ($270 tuition + $50 materials)  |  6 weeks
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 


    Show details

  • Leaded Stained Glass Fundamentals

    • Tue, October 06, 2026
    • Tue, November 10, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 5
    Register

    Leaded stained glass, also known as lead lighting, dates back to the 11th century and is the form of most stained glass windows found in churches and architecture. The process involves fitting glass pieces into the channels of a strip of lead called “came” and then soldering the pieces together.

    In this class you'll create your own stained glass window using this traditional method. You'll start by choosing from a selection of patterns (approximately 1ft by 1ft). Then you'll learn how to cut and grind glass pieces to fit, build the window using lead came, and solder and putty the piece. At the end of the class you'll have a beautiful panel of your own design, proper understanding of lead safety measures, confidence in glass cutting, and a basic knowledge of leading and soldering a window.

    $320 ($270 tuition + $50 materials)  |  6 weeks
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Evalin Becker 


    Show details

  • Adaptability and Narrative in Flameworking with Visiting Artist Kimberly Thomas

    • Wed, October 07, 2026
    • Sun, October 11, 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • 365 Marie Ave W, West St Paul, MN 55118

    In partnership with Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts, CAFAC is thrilled to welcome visiting artist Kimberly Thomas!

    Register here through Foci MCGA. 

    Questions? Get in touch with us at info@cafac.org.




    In this workshop, students will develop technical proficiency and material fluency through the sculptural possibilities of borosilicate glass. Students will move from foundational techniques into more complex constructions, learning to shape and assemble components with precision and intent. Alongside technical refinement, the class integrates storytelling, guiding participants to build a personal sculptural language and articulate narrative through form, structure, and detail. Instruction includes both group and individual demonstrations, with an emphasis on process, craftsmanship, and the steady expansion of creative voice.

    This five-day workshop is held at CAFAC and Foci MCGA:

    • Wednesday 10/7/26 - Thursday 10/8/26 at CAFAC (3749 Chicago Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55407)
    • Friday 10/9/26 - Sunday 10/11/26 at Foci MCGA (2213 Snelling Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404)

    $750 (includes all materials and supplies)  |  Register through Foci MCGA 
    Registration deadline: 9/23/26

    Visiting artist Kimberly Thomas is a biracial interdisciplinary sculptor and flameworker. She is a current artist in residence at Penland School of Crafts in Bakersville, NC. and is known for her work’s intentionally flawed and unusual motifs as well as her intricate sculptural inventions. A self-taught glass artist, Thomas earned a BFA in Ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design and spent six years as a special effects make-up artist before she began flameworking in 2009.

    Thomas’s work is often autobiographical and conveys her unique perception of the world. Drawing her influence from concepts, questions, and theories about human nature, she combines realism and fantasy. She imparts her truth into dark, yet entertaining, narratives. Recurring themes in her work include the undesirable facets of life and human nature, freedom from the corruption imposed by society, and expansion of self-knowledge. Thomas challenges viewers to face what makes them uncomfortable in order to invite opportunities for fresh perspectives and personal development. Artist’s Website

    This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. 

    Show details

  • Lampworking: Soft Glass Bead Fundamentals

    • Wed, October 07, 2026
    • Wed, November 04, 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    This class is an in-depth study of flamework (also known as lampworking) using a dual-fuel torch and Italian soft glass to create glass beads. You'll build a repertoire of techniques through hands-on practice, as you learn a variety of shaping techniques, glass manipulation, cane creation, and surface decoration. Creative combinations are limitless! We will have ample time in each class session to practice and hone new skills. Safety protocol, including proper tool and equipment use, will be covered. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.

    $265 ($225 tuition + $40 materials)  |  5 weeks
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann

    Show details

  • Open Torch Time: Soft Glass

    • Sat, October 17, 2026
    • 2:30 PM - 5:30 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 seven lampworkers, so sign up today to reserve your spot at the torch!

    $45

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann 

    Show details

  • Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass

    • Sun, October 25, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass are available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a stained glass or borosilicate 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. For stained glass, you supply the glass, lead-free solder, foil, flux, and patina and CAFAC will supply the tools and equipment.  For Borosilicate glass, you supply the glass and CAFAC will supply the torches and tools.

    $45

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan

    Show details

  • Stained Glass: Advanced Copper Foil Techniques

    • Mon, November 16, 2026
    • Mon, December 21, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Push your stained glass skills to the next level in this continuing class! Open to students who have completed Stained Glass: Copper Foil Fundamentals or have prior stained glass experience. We'll dive into more advanced pattern design techniques, practice making 3-D stained glass objects, and explore various ways to make hinges and latches for boxes, lanterns, and kinetic pieces. You'll leave this class with more precision in your patterning, cutting, and grinding, and become familiar with the diamond saw.

    $285 ($235 tuition + $50 materials)  |  6 weeks
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 


    Show details

  • Leaded Stained Glass Project Shop: Quilt Square

    • Tue, November 17, 2026
    • Tue, December 01, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 7
    Register

    Dip your toes into the world of lead lighting in this beginner-level class. You'll learn and practice leaded stained glass techniques in the process of making a small piece inspired by quilt squares. We'll cover safety when working with lead and by the end of this crash course you'll have a basic understanding of cutting and grinding glass, leading a window, and soldering - and leave with a unique piece of your own creation! No experience necessary.

    $160 ($135 tuition + $25 materials)
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Evalin Becker

    Show details

  • Hot Glass, Cool Beads: Italian Glass Bead Sampler

    • Sat, November 21, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 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

    Show details

  • Open Torch Time: Soft Glass

    • Sat, November 21, 2026
    • 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 1
    Register

    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 seven lampworkers, so sign up today to reserve your spot at the torch!

    $45

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann 

    Show details

  • Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass

    • Sun, November 29, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass are available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a stained glass or borosilicate 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. For stained glass, you supply the glass, lead-free solder, foil, flux, and patina and CAFAC will supply the tools and equipment.  For Borosilicate glass, You supply the glass and CAFAC will supply the torches and tools.

    $45

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan

    Show details

  • Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass

    • Sun, December 06, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Open Stained Glass Studio and Open Torch: Borosilicate Glass are available to people who have taken (or are currently taking) a stained glass or borosilicate 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. For stained glass, you supply the glass, lead-free solder, foil, flux, and patina and CAFAC will supply the tools and equipment.  For Borosilicate glass, You supply the glass and CAFAC will supply the torches and tools.

    $45

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan

    Show details

  • Stained Glass Project Shop: Snowflake Suncatcher

    • Sun, December 06, 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 3
    Register

     Celebrate the season by making your own stained glass snowflake! This is an ideal project to learn the basics: how to read a stained glass pattern, cut glass, assemble and solder components into a 2-D or 3-D form, and patina and seal your finished project. Patterns will be provided and you can choose between making a 2-D or 3-D snowflake. No prior stained glass experience needed. 

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

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 


    Show details

  • Leaded Stained Glass Project Shop: Beveled Mini-Window

    • Tue, December 08, 2026
    • Tue, December 15, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 8
    Register

    Dip your toes into the world of lead lighting in this beginner-level class. You'll learn and practice leaded stained glass techniques in the process of making a small pieces using pre-cut beveled glass. We'll start by discussing safety when working with lead and then proceed through the steps to assemble your beveled glass into a mini-window. You can expect to make up to three pieces of about five square inches. No experience necessary.

    $110 ($90 tuition + $20 materials) | 3 sessions
    Open to ages 18 and up.

    Instructor: Evalin Becker

    Show details

  • Stained Glass Project Shop: Night Light

    • Wed, December 09, 2026
    • Wed, December 16, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 2
    Register


    Welcome to a crash course in stained glass! This is a beginner-level stained glass class, no prior experience necessary. We will learn all of the techniques required to make a colorful, custom night light to take home with you at the end of class. All supplies and tools will be provided.

    In this workshop, you'll learn how to use the tools and techniques necessary for cutting glass. Next, we'll choose from a selection of patterns and cut the glass pieces for your project. (There will be lots of colors and textures to choose from!) Once we've cut all our pieces we'll apply the copper foil to the glass pieces in preparation for assembly. Then we'll heat up our soldering irons and assemble our pieces. After soldering, you will apply patina to the solder seams for your desired metal finish. We will wrap up the class by attaching them to the night light assembly.

    $110 ($90 tuition + $20 materials)  |  2 sessions
    Open to ages 18 and up; 16+ with parent/guardian in attendance.

    Instructor: Annemarie Hines


    Show details

  • Stained Glass Project Shop: Geometric Suncatcher

    • Thu, December 10, 2026
    • Thu, December 17, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 5
    Register

    Welcome to a crash course in stained glass! This is a beginner-level stained glass class, no prior experience necessary. We will learn all of the techniques required to make a geometric suncatcher that you will get to take home with you at the end of class. All of the supplies and tools will be provided.

    In this workshop, you'll learn how to use the tools and techniques necessary for cutting glass. Next, we'll choose from a selection of patterns and cut the glass pieces for your project. (There will be lots of colors and textures to choose from!) Once we've cut all our pieces we'll apply the copper foil to the glass pieces in preparation for assembly. Then we'll heat up our soldering irons and assemble our suncatchers! After soldering, you will apply patina to the solder seams for your desired metal finish. We will wrap up the class by polishing our suncatchers. At this point your new stained glass suncatcher will be ready to go home with you!

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

    Instructor: Annemarie Hines


    Show details

  • Stained Glass Project Shop: Photo Frames

    • Sun, December 13, 2026
    • Sun, December 20, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 6
    Register

    Learn how to make your own copper foil stained glass photo frames in this all-levels class! You'll need to bring an instant or printed photo to frame, which you'll use to make a paper template. Then you'll learn how to cut glass, apply tinned copper wire to your pieces, and use lead-free solder to assemble your open-air picture frame. These frames work best with photos from instant cameras or photo booths - if you're printing your own make sure it's on heavier/stiffer paper.

    $110 ($90 tuition + $20 materials)
    Open to ages 16 and up.

    Instructor: Samael Leopold-Sullivan 


    Show details

  • Open Torch Time: Soft Glass

    • Sat, December 19, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • 3749 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
    • 3
    Register

    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 seven lampworkers, so sign up today to reserve your spot at the torch!

    $45

    Instructor: Mary Ila Duntemann 

    Show details

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

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