Jewels from the Kiln: Fused Glass Wearable Art with Tara Traister

Discover the magic of transforming glass into luminous, wearable works of art. In this six-week class, students of all skill levels—from curious beginners to experienced glass

artists, jewelry makers, bead artists, and flameworkers—will explore the exciting

possibilities of fused glass jewelry design.

Each week, we will play with the magic of glass—combining dichroic sparkle, silver foil

accents, Bullseye glass layering, and surprising color reactions that happen when

compatible glasses and metals meet in the kiln. Students will discover how to use these

effects intentionally to create depth, shimmer, contrast, and one-of-a-kind fused jewelry

components.

While everyone should leave the class with beautiful finished jewelry pieces,

experimentation is part of the creative process—and sometimes that means a few

surprises or failures along the way. All in all, this class is about having fun, getting the

creative juices flowing, and enjoying the journey of discovery.

Through coldworking techniques, students will learn how to shape and refine their

pieces into elegant, wearable forms with a polished aesthetic. Findings will be provided

so students can complete select pieces and leave with finished jewelry ready to wear,

gift, or use as inspiration for future work.

Discover how exciting it can be to turn glass, color, and light into jewelry that is truly one

of a kind.

What to Expect: Students will create fused jewelry components. Read more about how to prepare for class on our Registration Info page. 

Kilnforming work involves a mix of seated and standing activities, including preparing glass pieces for firing, and loading and unloading the kiln. A particulate respirator mask is required when working with fine glass powders or unloading kilns after firing and would be provided for you if needed. Handling glass and tools may require a certain level of dexterity. To learn more about accessibility the Accessibility page on our website.

Eligibility: No previous experience required. Open to ages 12 and up.

Pick-up: The glass needs to be fused in the kiln and 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. 

We recommend registering for classes early to reserve your spot! We base materials, and teacher needs off of student enrollment. Early registration not only guarantees your spot in class, but also helps to ensure the class will run. Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled within two weeks of the start date of class. Contact our Registrar of Education, Ari Eshoo, at [email protected] if you have questions about the class or would like to arrange a payment plan.