Venetian Foundations with Russell Carson

“Venetian Style” glass is less about what you make and more about how you make it. In this class, we will examine the fundamentals of Venetian style glass making. Simple tumblers and cups with blown feet will be the vessels for students to rediscover the building blocks of glass blowing. Centrifugal force, gravity, heat and air will be emphasized more than the actual tools at the bench. This will help to gain a better understanding of the basic nature of hot glass.

What to Expect: The goal of this class is to refine the steps that may eventually lead to goblet making.  Do not expect to make goblets.We will begin with the most basic pulled tumbler and will work towards using optic molds, fin molds and adding blown feet. Demos will be short to allow students the most practice time. Repetition leads to efficiency and consistency, key elements of the Venetian style. We will learn the importance of teamwork and being a good assistant. 

This class will cover a lot of basic topics but intermediate-advanced students will get the most out of it.  

The hot shop is a loud studio, and can get quite warm. Glassblowing takes repetition and practice - expect failures along with successes. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

Additional work time for intensive students: Students will also have access to additional hours in the hot shop, without instruction, on Tuesday - Saturday (No Friday) from 2-5pm. Students must be able to work safely in the studio, and be able to set up their area without needing instruction. Students participating in student hours will need to be approved by the instructor and TA’s.

Eligibility: This class is designed for individuals with a minimum of two years of glassblowing experience. Students should be proficient in creating a cylinder without instruction, as well as confidently executing techniques such as gathering, marvering, popping bubbles, and navigating the bench. Experienced glassblowers seeking to enhance their skills with Venetian techniques will also find this class beneficial.Open to ages 14 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to cool down overnight, so the students will have to return to UrbanGlass once notified to pick up their work. 

This is an in-person class taking place on-site at UrbanGlass. Health and safety guidelines will be emailed to you upon registration.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

UrbanGlass, 647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, United States