There is something in us that craves the power to create. As most of us spend hours on the computer everyday or engage in non-physical work, we are missing the unique sensation activated in our brains by working with our hands.
It’s no wonder then that there’s been a renaissance in modern culture through the maker movement. It’s the newest descriptor for the creative space also called “Do-it-Yourself” (DIY), born by suburban home life and changing gender roles in the 1950s.[1]
The maker and DIY movement allows us to reclaim work that is often done by professionals and artisans, and learn to do things for ourselves in a variety of fields, including engineering-based robotics and 3D printing, as well as traditional activities such as metalworking, woodworking and hot and cold glassworking.
Since we started Peregrine Glassworks we have had this idea to join the maker movement and offer workshops. Many of our customers have been curious about the process we use to make the glasses. We heard many stories from people who have attempted to cut bottles themselves, only to fail over and over again (see first blog).
At the workshops, we start from the beginning and you will learn to cut a bottle on your own (it often makes participants laugh), and then the processes of grinding. Finally you will pick your own glass and get to sandblast it yourself with one of our many designs. The final stage of your glass is exciting, as you clean the glass in water, peel off the stencil, and watch as the surface dries to reveal the permanently etched drinking glass. Participants will spend an hour and a half in the workshop and go home with new skills, and a glass that you can be proud you made on your own.
The classes can accommodate up to six people and are a great way to spend quality time with your pals, switch up date night or make special, memorable gifts.
We will schedule three classes a month to start but if a better time suits you, let us know. We hope to make with you soon.
[1] Gelber, S. 1997. https://muse.jhu.edu/article/2269
