62-250 Introduction to Beadmaking
3 units, Carnegie Mellon University
Learn the art of glass beadmaking and make an array of colorful beads. Over the course of the 8 weeks, you'll learn the basic skills of heating colorful rods of glass with a torch and how to use gravity and tools to form and mold them into unique beautiful beads. Once you've practiced creating forms, learn how to add decorative color and designs with dots, frit, and trails, to create intricate designs. This class is suitable for all levels. Experienced beadmakers will focus on more advanced decorative techniques. Class tuition includes 2 hours of open-studio time to be used during the 8-week course period. This will help you become familiar with the studio itself and learn the process of studio rental beyond class hours. Flame Shop Open Studio time is purposefully included with this 8-week course to give students independent studio time to practice the skills demonstrated in class and prepare students to feel comfortable renting the flame shop if desired. 1 free 2 hour session Open Studio sessions per student are included with tuition to Flame 1. Open studio is only offered on Mondays 5:00pm - 9:00pm. Registration for Pittsburgh Glass Center classes can only be done on or after your scheduled registration day. Spaces are limited. Registration is done on a first come, first served basis. Please email Stefanie McGowan (stefanim@andrew.cmu.edu) for more information and to register. Course fee is $245. Not eligible for PCHE Cross Registration. Course taught at the Pittsburgh Glass Center. Courses at the Pittsburgh Glass Center will run from September 24, 2026 to November 19, 2026.
Prerequisites: none listed
Offered: Fall 2026, Fall 2025
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