Personalised One-on-One Kiln Casting Workshops
 
Option 1 Simple Relief or Open-Faced Molds for Glass Casting
Price: $400.00 USD (Includes materials, tools and firing fees) 
Duration: 3-4 hours total.
Session 1: Glass Casting Process Introduction, Mold Design and Silicone Mold-Making (1 hour) 
Session 2: Pouring Wax and Refractory Molds for Glass Casting (1-2 hours)
Session 3: Opening the Kiln and Finishing Your Glass (1 hour) 
 
About these workshops:
Work directly with a glass artist to learn the unique and ancient technique of kiln casting. This one-on-one experience is fully customizable to your goals, whether you are a beginner or need guided support on a specific project. 
Over the course of several sessions, you will be guided through every step of the process. Because each glass casting project requires different mold-making approaches, the exact session schedule will be chosen in the introductory session.
 
What you will learn:
Sculpting and model-making: Learn to create a wax or clay model that will become the basis for your final glass sculpture. Or choose any found object to reproduce in glass.
Silicone mold-making: Pour-on or brush-on silicone molds will be designed and created for whatever object you are casting.
Refractory molds: Invest your model in a durable, heat-resistant mold material.
Kiln preparation: Learn how to set up and program a kiln for the proper firing and annealing schedule for your cast piece.
Glass selection and color: Work with your instructor to select and layer different glass types and frit (crushed glass) for your desired color palette.
Filling the mold: Carefully prepare your glass and place it into the mold before it goes into the kiln.
Basic cold working and finishing: Learn about the finishing process for glass casting, such as grinding and polishing, and receive guidance on how to complete the finishing process on your own. 
 
What to expect:
Customized experience: As the director of your lesson, you can use your time for a specific project, skill-building, or a general question-and-answer session with the instructor.
Beginner friendly: No prior experience with glass is required. The lesson will be tailored to your skill level. Please note that students will not be handling equipment or any hazardous materials.
Materials included: Standard glass materials, mold materials, and kiln firing costs are included in the price.
 
What you will gain from the workshop:
1. A reusable silicone mold from a small object, as well as at least one cast glass object. More depending on size and complexity.
2. Access to cast glass in our kilns in the future (for a daily kiln usage fee).
3. A notebook of information about glass-casting, from mold recipes to kiln schedules.
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How to start:
1.  Purchase the workshop. Complete your transaction to secure your spot.
2.  We will reach out within 24 hours of purchase to schedule your sessions based on your availability and our studio schedule.
3.  Prepare for your lesson. Wear comfortable clothes you're willing to get a little dirty. Everything from safety provisions to materials and notes will be covered.
 
Instructor: Melt Glass Charleston founder and glass artist, Austin Norvell
 
Norvell has worked with cast glass for over 20 years and has recently taught glass casting workshops at the Pittsburgh Glass Center and Pilchuck Glass School in Washington. 
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Location: Austin Norvell Art, LLC studio in Mount Pleasant, SC.
 
Have a question about these workshops?
Contact us at meltglasscharleston@gmail.com.