Fun With Frit - Borosilicate Lampwork Pendants with Deenie

About this class:Learn the mesmerizing art of borosilicate lampworking in this hands-on pendant class. No prior glass experience is required, just curiosity and a sense of adventure. In this 2½-hour session, you’ll explore the unique beauty of hard glass and color frit (crushed glass) to create an original pendant. You will have the choice of layering external frit designs or using the stunning implosion technique.

All tools, materials, and safety equipment are provided. You’ll work on a professional torch station with one-on-one guidance to help you shape, melt, and transform molten glass into wearable art. This class is perfect for beginners who want an introduction to the torch, or for intermediate students interested in refining control and exploring color layering techniques.

Topics covered:Introduction to Borosilicate Glass

Overview of hard glass properties and color frit varietiesUnderstanding flame chemistry and working zonesTools and Materials

Introduction to torches, rods, punties, and frit toolsProper use of safety glasses, oxygen, and ventilationSafety and Studio Etiquette

Best practices for working safely with flame and glassSetting up and maintaining your workspaceTechniques and Demonstrations

Applying frit and creating surface texturesShaping, encasing, and melting for clarity and depthImplosion technique: drawing color inward to create enhanced optical effectsHands-On Creation

Create a pendant with layered frit on the surface of clear glassAlternative technique: make an implosion pendant with internal color bloomFinishing and Annealing

Kiln-annealing basics for strength and longevityBail options and techniquesThroughout the class, you’ll receive personalized instruction to develop your torch control and design intuition. You’ll leave with a finished pendant, a new appreciation for molten glass, and the confidence to keep exploring the craft.

About the Instructor

Deenie Wallace began working with borosilicate glass in 2003. Over the years, she has sold her lampwork designs to enthusiastic collectors worldwide. Known for her distinctive styles and advanced use of color techniques, her work is sought after for its advanced level of craftsmanship and beauty. Deenie holds a BFA in Intermedia from Pacific Northwest College of Art. She is also a local filmmaker, creative technologist, and plant medicine enthusiast. 

View Deenie's Portfolio