Hot Shop 101: Building a Foundation - Asheville
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical condition, able to stand for extended periods and handle moderate manual tasks.
Overview
Experience the thrill of shaping molten glass into art with the Hot Shop 101 workshop at Asheville's North Carolina Glass Center. Perfect for beginners, this private session immerses you in the fiery craft of glassblowing.
Hot Shop 101: Building a Foundation - Asheville
$835 I 8 weeks (3 hours per week) I Ages 16+ | Wednesday Evenings
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the captivating world of glassblowing in this 8-week introductory class! Perfect for beginners, you'll learn essential techniques, safety practices, and studio terminology while creating 5-10 unique pieces. Gain confidence and skills in the hot shop, setting the stage for more advanced courses. No prior experience needed—just bring your creativity!
Hot Shop 101: Building a Foundation
Rates
Participants - $835
Duration
8 Weeks. This class meets once a week for 3 hours for 8 consecutive weeks. Class meets on Wednesdays 6-9pm
About
Fall in love with glassblowing. This introductory class is designed for the beginner who's looking to learn more about the art of glass blowing and all that the hot shop has to offer.
This course will focus on studio terminology, safety, the proper use of tools and essential blowing techniques. You will learn how to gather molten glass and shape it into basic forms.
This course may be repeated in order to build skills and confidence in preparation for Hot Shop 201. The more experience you gain in the hot shop, the better prepared you'll be for intermediate and advanced glassblowing courses.
By the end of the 8 weeks, you should walk away with 5-10 pieces.
No experience required. Ages 16+
There is a non-refundable $100 deposit when booking multi-week classes. We allow cancellations up to 7 days before the start time of your class for a refund minus the $100 deposit. If you cancel less than 7 days before the start of your class, you will not receive a refund.
Adventure Tips
Wear natural fiber clothing
Cotton or linen clothes minimize heat retention and reduce risks near hot furnaces.
Stay hydrated
Working near a furnace can quickly lead to dehydration—bring water and drink frequently.
Closed-toe shoes required
For safety around hot glass and equipment, sturdy shoes protect your feet from burns.
Avoid loose jewelry or dangling items
Loose accessories can pose hazards while working with glass and near machinery.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Gray Squirrel
- Peregrine Falcon
History
Asheville has a rich history in craft arts, with the North Carolina Glass Center continuing a tradition of glass artistry dating back decades.
Conservation
The center emphasizes sustainable practices, recycling glass waste and using energy-efficient furnaces to reduce environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Asheville, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Natural fiber clothing
Protects you from heat and reduces discomfort near the furnace.
Closed-toe, sturdy shoes
Provides safety and support during the workshop.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the physically demanding session.
summer specific
Sunglasses
Useful for bright outdoor lighting before or after your workshop.
summer specific