Glass Blowing - Rondels for Stained Glass Artists

You are signing up for a 2-hour glass-blowing session to create an object commonly known in the glass industry as a rondel. A rondel is a flat, round glass disk used in many glass designs, but most regularly in stained glass applications. The flat disc can be created to be a specific size, and have various color and texture applications. They can complement many stained glass designs, as certain aesthetics can only be achieved through the glass-blowing process, versus manufactured sheet glass processes.

A blowpipe is used to spool the molten glass from the furnace at about 2000 degrees F.  The glass will then be colored, textured, and shaped. From there, air is blown into the ball of glass, to create a hollow bubble of the desired size. The bubble is then opened up, much like a flower, to create the disk. This final step happens quickly!  The disks are then annealed in a kiln overnight. This slow cooling strengthens the glass and prevents shattering. There will be time to make several rondels, depending on the desired design complexity.

No experience is required.  Leave your fear of fire at home! The instructor will advise every student on safety, and do his best to keep the heat away from you. Even still, the hot shop has hot spots, and can get very warm, so dress in layers! Bring close-toed shoes and expect to tie back loose hair!

Only two students per session results in plenty of hands-on time blowing glass.  Glass-blowing is a dance for two, so sign up with a buddy!

Fee: 100$ per person.

Instructor:  Oliver Weerts, Clio, CA