Fused Glass Workshops in Devon

Discover the wonderful world of Fused Glass

If you’ve ever been captivated by the vibrant colours of fused glass or wondered how beautiful bowls, wave sculptures, lanterns and decorative panels are created, you’ve come to the right place.

Welcome to Glass Workshop, an award-winning glass studio in the heart of North Devon, where creativity, craftsmanship and a warm welcome come together. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to develop your existing skills, our fused glass workshops are designed to help you discover the fascinating art of glass fusing in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Led by award-winning glass artist and teacher Gigha Klinkenborg, our workshops give you the opportunity to work with colourful Oceanside compatible glass, specialist tools and professional kilns to create unique pieces you’ll be proud to display or give as gifts. With over 30 years of experience working with glass and teaching thousands of students, Gigha has developed workshops that are enjoyable, informative and suitable for everyone, regardless of artistic ability.

Unlike many larger classes, our workshops are intentionally kept small, allowing plenty of individual guidance throughout the day. You’ll learn at your own pace, ask questions whenever you need to, and leave with a much deeper understanding of how glass behaves in the kiln.

Our Victorian warehouse studio in Bideford provides an inspiring setting, just a short distance from the spectacular North Devon coastline. Many visitors combine their workshop with a day exploring nearby beaches, picturesque villages and local attractions, making it a memorable creative experience as well as a chance to unwind.

Whether you’re looking for a unique day out in Devon, a creative experience to share with friends, a thoughtful gift, or the start of an exciting new hobby, our fused glass workshops offer the perfect introduction to this colourful and rewarding craft.

Discover the Art of Fused Glass

Fused glass is one of the most exciting and accessible forms of glass art. By carefully layering pieces of compatible glass and firing them in a specialist kiln, ordinary sheets of coloured glass are transformed into beautiful works of art. During firing, the glass softens and fuses together, creating smooth surfaces, vibrant colours and fascinating effects that simply can’t be achieved any other way.

At the Glass Workshop, our fused glass workshops introduce you to this magical process in a relaxed and friendly environment. You’ll discover how to cut, layer and arrange glass before learning how the kiln transforms your design into a finished piece. Watching your ideas come together is immensely rewarding, and because every firing is slightly different, every piece you create is truly one of a kind.

Unlike painting or drawing, where a blank canvas can sometimes feel intimidating, fused glass is wonderfully forgiving. There are no strict rules about what you should create, and the beautiful range of colours, textures and decorative materials means that every participant develops their own unique style. Whether you prefer bold contemporary designs, coastal-inspired artwork or colourful abstract patterns, you’ll have the freedom to create something that’s completely personal.

Fused Glass Workshops for Complete Beginners

One of the questions we’re asked most often is, “Can I do this if I’ve never worked with glass before?”

The answer is abslolutely an enthusiastic YES!

The vast majority of people who attend our fused glass workshops have never cut glass or used specialist equipment before. Everything is explained clearly, step by step, and you’ll be guided throughout the day by award-winning glass artist and teacher Gigha Klinkenborg.

You’ll learn how to handle glass safely, use professional glass cutting tools, understand the basics of glass compatibility and discover how different materials behave during firing. Every technique is demonstrated before you try it yourself, allowing you to build confidence as you progress.

Our workshops are intentionally kept small, ensuring everyone receives individual guidance and support. Whether you work quickly or prefer to take your time, you’ll never feel rushed or left behind.

Many visitors arrive feeling slightly nervous, convinced they are not artistic enough. By the end of the day they’re often amazed by what they’ve achieved and leave inspired to continue their glass journey.

What Can You Make?

One of the joys of fused glass is its incredible versatility.

Depending on the workshop you choose, you may create beautiful decorative or practical pieces including:

• Contemporary glass wave sculptures inspired by the North Devon coast
• Decorative wall panels
• Colourful coasters
• Lantern panels
• Hanging suncatchers
• Jewellery and pendants
• Small bowls and dishes
• Christmas decorations
• Seasonal decorations
• Coastal and landscape artwork

Each workshop has its own theme and project, allowing you to explore different techniques while creating something you’ll be proud to display in your home or give as a thoughtful handmade gift.

Every piece is individually designed by you. No two projects are ever identical, making each workshop a truly creative experience.

Learn Professional Glass Fusing Techniques

Throughout your workshop you’ll discover many of the techniques used by professional fused glass artists.

Depending on your chosen workshop, you’ll learn about:

• Safe glass cutting techniques
• Choosing compatible glass
• Layering glass to create depth
• Using frits, powders, paints and stringers
• Creating texture and movement
• Designing for successful kiln firing
• Understanding the 6mm rule
• Preparing work for firing
• Slumping and shaping glass after firing

Rather than simply copying a project, you’ll gain an understanding of why these techniques work, giving you the confidence to continue creating long after your workshop has finished.

A Relaxing Creative Experience in North Devon

Our studio is located in a quirky old Victorian warehouse in Bideford, North Devon, providing an inspiring setting in which to spend the day.

Many visitors tell us that one of the things they enjoy most isn’t just learning a new craft, but the opportunity to slow down, switch off from everyday life and become completely absorbed in creating.

Working with glass encourages mindfulness. As you select colours, arrange your design and carefully place each piece, everyday worries quickly fade into the background. It’s a wonderfully satisfying process that combines creativity, concentration and relaxation.

Many visitors travel from across the UK and beyond to attend our workshops, often combining their creative day with a visit to nearby beaches, independent shops, cafés and the stunning North Devon coastline.

Why Choose Glass Workshop?

Choosing the right workshop is about far more than learning techniques. It’s about enjoying the whole experience.

When you book a fused glass workshop with Glass Workshop you’ll benefit from:

• Award-winning tuition from experienced glass artist Gigha Klinkenborg
• More than 30 years of experience working with glass
• Small, friendly workshop groups
• Individual guidance throughout the day
• High-quality Oceanside compatible glass
• Professional tools and equipment provided
• A welcoming and relaxed studio atmosphere
• Workshops suitable for complete beginners
• Beautiful North Devon location
• Delicious refreshments and lunch on full-day workshops

Our aim isn’t simply to teach you how to make something beautiful. We want you to enjoy every stage of the creative process, leave feeling inspired and discover a new confidence in your own creativity.  Browse all fusing workshops

More Than Just a Workshop

Many of our visitors return again and again, gradually developing new skills through different workshops and Studio Sessions.

Some begin with a half-day fused glass taster before progressing to full-day workshops or our popular two-day Fused Glass Masterclass. Others discover a passion for stained glass, mosaics or copper foil techniques after first experiencing fused glass.

Whatever stage you’re at, there’s always something new to learn.

Our workshops are designed not only to give you a beautiful finished piece, but to introduce you to a creative community where learning, sharing ideas and enjoying glass art continues long after your first visit.

Whether you’re looking for a memorable day out, a thoughtful gift experience or the beginning of an exciting new hobby, you’ll find a warm welcome waiting for you at Glass Workshop in North Devon.

We look forward to helping you discover just how enjoyable fused glass can be.  😊

Book a Workshop
The 6mm Rule
Student Gallery
Gift Vouchers