Glassblowing Workshop: Bits and Trails

Students will have the opportunity to make a simple vessel, such as a cup or vase, and add designs by applying clear or colored bits to form spiral or freehand trails. As an assistant, students will learn to shape, heat, and present bits to the gaffer, using basic tools with which students will already be familiar. When creating their own piece, students will also learn how/when to accept a bit from an assistant, how to apply it in an even diameter trail, and how the timing of the bit can create texture, or sometimes unevenness in the thickness of the vessel wall.
 
This workshop is for students who have completed Introduction to Glassblowing at WFA, or an equivalent 16-hr introductory course at another studio. More advanced students are also welcome. This is an excellent opportunity to refine form, improve heat management, and experiment with timing of the bit application to achieve different textural effects.