Craft Your Own Glass Art at Philadelphia’s Paperweight Workshops
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all who can stand for short periods.
Overview
Discover the thrill of shaping molten glass into your own paperweight at Philadelphia’s East Falls Glassworks. Perfect for beginners, this hands-on workshop offers a creative escape and a unique souvenir to take home.
Paperweight Workshops
Recommended for Ages 13+ • Up to 3 Hours • Up to 21 Spots Available!
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About This Adventure
Experience the art of glassblowing in this one-day workshop tailored for beginners! Under the guidance of skilled instructors, you'll transform molten glass into a unique paperweight. All materials are provided, making it an exciting opportunity to unleash your creativity and craft a memorable piece of art, no experience required!
Duration
Up to 3 Hours
About
A one-day workshop designed for the total beginner! Participants will be led through the process of shaping molten glass into a paperweight of their very own by one of our skilled instructors. We will provide all supplies and tools needed - no experience necessary!
More Info
Class structure will consist of 1 hour of instruction and introduction to the material first, followed by each student making a piece. Actual class duration may vary slightly based on enrollment.
UPON SIGN-UP YOU'LL RECEIVE AN EMAIL FROM US DETAILING IMPORTANT PREPARATORY INFORMATION AND STUDIO POLICIES
If you do not see this email within 48 hours of signup, please check your spam folder!
Dress Code, Age Restrictions, and other Safety Information
We do not have a hard age limit, though we generally suggest 13+ simply due to the size of the equipment and the heat. That being said, we regularly have younger people in and are always happy to accommodate their abilities; their participation might just look a little different from their adult-sized peers.
Please be sure to have a conversation with your kids before you arrive - prepare them for a hot, loud space and emphasize the need to listen to keep everyone safe.
Please also note that due to safety and liability reasons, we require that groups/participants under the age of 18 be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the session, regardless of whether they are enrolled in the class as well.
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that is made of natural fibers, such as jeans and a cotton t-shirt. Avoid polyester, rayon, or other such synthetics. They are uncomfortable when your body heats up and plastics have the potential to melt while you're wearing them... Not good.
Put on closed toed shoes (no sandals, flip-flops or the like) and leave the jewelry at home.
Do not come to class intoxicated! Doing so risks forfeit of your enrollment. Glassblowing is hard enough without making it harder.
Adventure Tips
Wear Natural Fiber Clothing
Choose breathable cotton or jeans to stay comfortable around the furnace’s heat and avoid synthetic fabrics that can melt.
Closed-Toed Shoes Required
Protect your feet by wearing sturdy closed-toed shoes; sandals or flip-flops are not allowed inside the studio.
Arrive On Time
Punctuality ensures you receive the full instruction time and don’t miss important safety briefings.
No Jewelry or Loose Items
Remove jewelry to prevent accidents and keep the workspace safe and free from hazards.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern gray squirrels
- Various songbirds native to urban Philadelphia
History
East Falls has a legacy of craftsmanship dating back to the early industrial era, contributing to Philadelphia’s status as a center for American glassmaking.
Conservation
The studio practices sustainable use of materials and encourages recycling glass scraps to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Breathable Cotton Clothing
Keeps you cool and safe around the hot glass furnace.
summer specific
Closed-Toed Shoes
Protects feet in a heat-intensive studio environment.
Safety Glasses (Provided)
Protects your eyes from heat and glass shards; supplied by the studio.
Hair Tie
Keeps long hair secured away from flames and equipment.