Artist Course - Laura Quinn - Getting Started with Lampworking

Laura Quinn's "Getting Started with Lampworking" Artist Course offers a clear and practical overview of how to confidently set up your space with the right equipment to start lampworking. Lampworking is a technique that uses a torch to melt and shape glass into decorative or functional objects.

Laura will begin with a brief background to the process and explore the main types of glass used, the different characteristics and applications. Particular focus is given to Bullseye for its rich colour range, compatibility with accessories, and its ability to combine lampworking with fusing and casting techniques.

You will be guided through the components of Laura's safe lampworking setup, including safe torch operation, gas bottles, hoses, flashback arrestors, regulators, oxygen concentrators, extraction, and workstation layout. Health and safety, including appropriate PPE, is covered throughout as well as essential hand tools and the annealing requirements for glass that has been lampworked. 

Practical projects will include preparing mandrels, making a basic bead, exploring texture and colour reactions, and working off the mandrel to create pendants. You will also learn how to pull your own stringers, create grass blades and stems finishing with a fused lampworked leaf or feather sample.

You can view more of Laura's work on her website here: https://www.lauraquinndesign.com/

Skill Level:

• Beginners welcome
  

Artist Course Summary: 

• Develop some understanding of what is involved with lampworking, including its potential and limitations.
• Understand the components for a lampworking set up.
• Learn about the health and safety involved with the process.
• Learn bottle and torch handling processes.
• How to melt and shape glass around metal mandrels to make beads.
• How to melt and shape glass off mandrel, working purely with the rods.
• Develop an interest in exploring how lampworking can mix with kiln forming processes.

Artist Course Outcome:

• Simple colour beads.
• Multicolour beads exploring the line, swirl texture and mottled patterns.
• Multicoloured patterned pendant with hook.
• A range of stringers and grassy effects.
• Fused glass sample tile with lampworked detail.

Disclaimer:

Health and safety regulations will differ from different regions, and you may need to contact your local specialists, but this course gives a brilliant overview of things to consider as a way to prepare your space and equipment for lampworking. (The artist and Glass School accept no liability for the health and safety of your set up).