Are you ready to explore a new and distinctive art form?
This series of virtual sessions,
"Beginning Techniques in Flameworked Glass Sculpture", offers a guided lesson plan and captivating experience
for those intrigued by the beauty and complexity of glass, as well as the process of shaping it using a torch and fire.
Melt, Sculpt and Create!
🔥 Feel the thrill of shaping raw glass into stunning, vibrant art! Across ten detailed virtual sessions, Melanie breaks down her original techniques for sculpting solid borosilicate rods so you can apply the skills you learn to your own glass designs.
Ready to Light the Torch?
- No experience required: Stop wondering how to start and jump straight into the action.
- Master the fire: Learn the exact steps to manipulate molten glass safely and confidently.
- Your ultimate workspace: Turn your personal space into a high-energy creative studio.
Fuel Your Passion
- Aspiring Artists: Ignite your portfolio with a high-skill craft that commands attention.
- Retired Hobbyists: Transform your free time into a deeply rewarding, mesmerizing hands-on passion project.
- Curious Creators: Discover a mditative art form you can perfect in the sanctuary of your own creative space.
Hi, I'm Melanie Cech - Sumner
I am a self-taught glass artist with over 35 years of experience in working with solid, borosilicate glass sculpture. My early discovery of flameworking sparked a passion that evolved into a rewarding, full-time career. Throughout my artistic journey, I have developed my own unique style and technique that will shorten your path to learning glass sculpture and provide you the knowledge to start your journey in learning this beautiful artform.
In 2020, I launched a new passion project: making flameworking accessible to the world. For years, my hands-on workshops were limited by geography, but the global demand for this craft was clear. To bridge that gap, I distilled 35 years of self-taught techniques, trial-and-error, and foundational milestones into a comprehensive visual and written guide. Partnering with a professional videographer, I captured the exact visual nuances required to fast-track a beginner's success.
Embracing the shift toward virtual learning, I built a curriculum that empowers aspiring glass artists worldwide to bypass decades of frustrating guesswork. Today, my premier online course, "Beginning Techniques in Flameworked Glass Sculpture," is officially live on Teachable. It is designed specifically to shorten your learning curve and confidently launch your journey into this incredible art form.
What you will learn
Participants will receive guidance on selecting the appropriate torches, tools, and glass, as well as setting up a functional workshop. The series covers essential techniques that are necessary to acquire and practice in order to excel at making glass sculptures, from tiny jewelry to larger sculpture.
These virtual sessions go beyond standard online tutorials that simply show you how to make a single piece. Instead, I break down the "why" behind every choice—from the specific torches and glass I use to the precise arm angles and techniques required for success.
Over this 10-session course, you won't just follow along; you'll gain a deep understanding of the fundamentals and purposeful practice habits. By learning a wide variety of techniques and styles, you will build the skills and confidence needed to move past basic imitation and start designing your own unique glass sculptures.
Whether you are just starting out or already have some experience with flameworking and want to refine your skills, these sessions are designed to support your growth and mastery of the art form.
A two-minute Preview of the Virtual Sessions
Preview the individualized approach to learning flameworking in the privacy of your own home or studio.