List of Glass Blowing Classes in Alabama
Glass art is thriving in the state of Alabama. Traditional crafts like glass blowing are very popular with residents and visitors alike. Glass studios and schools offer high-quality, affordable classes that help beginners get started in the medium.
Historically, Alabama’s economy included glass manufacturing. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the success of several large glass companies in the state.
Today, glass continues to be influential in Alabama. Art glass is created in private studios, and the basics of glass blowing are shared in community school and university settings.
There are several class formats included in this list, so you are sure to find the right learning opportunity for you.
- Basic Lampwork Starter Kit for beginners. 2 hours of instructional video on DVD, plus full email...
- (Requires disposable propane or Mapp Gas canister. or bulk tank propane with hose.)
- Please use saftey lenses and adequate ventilation when lampworking.
1) Orbix Hot Glass
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, weekdays, weekends, 30 minute sessions
- Price: $40-$170
- Website: https://orbixhotglass.com/
- Telephone: (256) 523-3188
- Location: 3869 County Rd. 275 Fort Payne, AL 35967
Orbix Hot Glass is owned and operated by Cal and Christy Breed. The studio sits on 26 acres and is the perfect setting to learn glass blowing for the first time.
The Breeds offer project-based classes that last for about 30 minutes. The short duration of classes and simplicity of the projects make this option ideal for families.
Project options include tumblers, flowers, bowls, and paperweights.
2) Coastal Arts Center Hot Shop
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: small group, weekdays, weekends, demonstrations
- Price: $85-$185
- Website: https://www.orangebeachal.gov/facilities/art-center/hot-shop/about
- Telephone: (251) 981-2787
- Location: 26389 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL 36561
Coastal Arts Center is a 10,000 square foot public arts education center located in Orange Beach. The Center offers a wide range of classes and includes a hot shop.
The hot shop has operated since 2009 and offers blow-your-own classes, private classes, and demonstrations.
3) University of South Alabama
- Type: general glass art, glass blowing
- Classes: university degree, semester-long courses
- Price: Contact for tuition information
- Website: https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/art/glass.html
- Telephone: (251) 461-1438
- Location: 501 N. University Blvd. 172 VAB Mobile, AL 36688
The University of South Alabama is one of only a few schools in the United States to offer a glass blowing degree. Students can major in art with a glass concentration.
More detailed information about the glass blowing degree can be found on the university’s website, but in brief, students complete an art degree and take additional classes on hot glass processes.
This is an amazing opportunity for any artist who wants to dive deep into glass blowing. While a degree in glass blowing is certainly not required in order to become a professional, it can be helpful for future educators and those who are really passionate about the craft.