I absolutely love hosting private fused glass classes with returning students. They already know what to expect, they understand the basics, and we can dive right into creating without hesitation. There’s a comfort and ease in those classes that feels so natural. This was one of those days. Kim has taken several classes with me, and this time she brought two of her daughters — Karmen and Chelsey — along with her granddaughter, Kennedy. Three generations creating together in the studio… it doesn’t get much better than that. Even when students have taken classes with me before, we still begin the same way — with a safety review and signing the liability forms. Safety always comes first. And of course, everyone still gets to choose a free gift before we begin. They could pick from stirrers, pocket crosses or hearts, and pendants. It’s a small tradition, but it sets such a welcoming tone and adds a little extra joy before the creativity starts flowing.
Since everyone had taken classes with me before (except Kennedy), we didn’t need the full studio tour this time. Kim and Chelsey already knew exactly what they wanted to make, which I love. That kind of confidence only comes with experience. Karmen and Kennedy, however, took a little time to browse the gallery for inspiration — and that’s always a fun moment to watch.
- The Finished Room — is filled with completed fused glass artwork available for purchase, and it truly gives students a sense of just how versatile this art form can be. From florals and landscapes to jewelry and functional pieces, the variety always surprises them. It’s one thing for me to describe the possibilities — it’s another thing entirely to see them displayed right in front of you.
- The Finishing & Inspiration Room —is where I spend time adding those final touches to my own work. It’s a calm, creative space, and students often pause here a little longer. This is usually where ideas start forming — they begin imagining colors, shapes, and projects of their own. There’s almost always a visible spark in this room.
- The Gallery Area —showcases a curated collection of finished fused glass pieces, all available for purchase. This space tends to spark the most conversation. Students begin pointing out color palettes they love, textures that catch their eye, and techniques they’re curious about trying. Before long, the creative wheels are turning and the possibilities feel endless.
Both Kim and Chelsey came in knowing exactly what they wanted to create, so we didn’t waste any time. We headed straight into the studio and began selecting glass. Here’s a picture of the studio all set and ready for creating. The options available include vitrigraph, sheet glass (both opalescent and transparent), dots, murrine, millefiori, and so much more. There’s something so satisfying about seeing everything laid out — color, texture, and possibility waiting to be combined. When returning students walk in with a vision and a room full of options, the creative process takes off quickly. The energy shifts from “What should I make?” to “Let’s do this.” And that’s exactly how this class began.
We’ll start with Kim. As I mentioned, she has taken several classes with me — and she always keeps me on my toes in the best way. I truly love that about her. She isn’t afraid to think bigger or push an idea a little further. This time, she wanted to create a large suncatcher. Ironically, I had just made a couple myself, so we used those as a starting point. But Kim had her own vision. She took the concept and elevated it, adding details and design choices that made it uniquely hers — and she accomplished that in spades. Here are some of her process photos along with the finished piece. Isn’t it stunning? The layering, the color movement, the way everything balances — it all came together beautifully. It’s a substantial, thick piece, so I’m curious to see exactly how she chooses to display it. One thing is certain: when you hold it up to the light, the colors absolutely glow. That’s the moment I love most — when the light hits the glass and it comes alive. I cannot wait to see where she hangs this beautiful piece of art.
Next up is Chelsey — and honestly, all I can say is WOW. She walked in with a plan. A raccoon plan. And his name is Gary. From the very beginning, she had a clear vision, and she chose her glass beautifully. The colors, the textures, the placement — everything worked together to bring Gary to life. It’s always so fun to watch a design with personality come together, and this one absolutely had personality. She did an outstanding job capturing his expression and character. Gary isn’t just a piece of fused glass — he’s a presence. You can’t help but smile when you look at him. Chelsey plans to hang him, so we drilled holes for proper display. In the meantime, I gave her a small stand so she can showcase Gary until she decides on his permanent home. Honestly, he deserves to be seen. Watching her turn a simple idea into something this charming and well-executed was such a highlight of the day.
Next is Karmen. She came in wanting to create a wave — and I have to admit, I’ve wanted to make one myself since I first started fusing. Somehow, I just never took the time. But Karmen knew exactly what she wanted, and together we brought this amazing fused glass wave to life. The movement, the curve, the layering — it all came together beautifully. And then we added a glow-in-the-dark moon, which just took it to another level. It’s one thing to love a piece during the day, but when it surprises you at night? That’s magic. Originally, she planned to display it as a sconce. But I asked her if I could try something a little different — and she graciously said yes. I chose to slump it on a wave mold, giving it dimension and motion that really enhanced the design. I am so glad we did, the way I positioned it highlights the wave and the move! It turned out absolutely fantastic. The shape gives it life, and the glass seems to move just like water. I think it’s safe to say… I see a wave in my future too.
Lastly is Kennedy, Karmen’s daughter. Kennedy decided to make a night light — and she didn’t hesitate. She dove right in and finished her project quickly and confidently. One of my favorite parts was watching her sort through the murrine and millefiori box. She absolutely loved it. There’s something magical about that moment — lifting little pieces one by one, holding them up to the light, imagining where they might fit. It’s like a treasure hunt in glass form. She chose some beautiful murrine and millefiori that made her night light feel extra special and uniquely hers. The details really brought it to life. I love that I’m able to offer such a wide variety of embellishments for my students. Watching them explore, compare, and get excited about the possibilities never gets old. Her finished night light turned out absolutely lovely — simple, bright, and full of personality.
As I’ve mentioned before, I often give students the opportunity to create a small pendant, magnet, or keychain using my fused glass cabochons and decals. It’s always a fun little bonus project. Since Kennedy finished her night light first, she got the first crack at it. But because her mom, aunt, and grandmother chose more complex projects, theirs took quite a bit longer. So I told Kennedy she might as well make a few extras for her family while she waited. Well… she took that suggestion seriously. Kennedy ended up making nine pendants and magnets! And she did a fabulous job. She carefully chose her cabochons and decals, thoughtfully pairing them together and assembling each piece with confidence. It was so fun watching her fully embrace the creative process. By the end, she had a whole collection — little handmade treasures for the people she loves. I just love that kind of enthusiasm. When a student enjoys the process so much they keep going? That’s the best kind of day in the studio.
This private class was such a joy. There’s something incredibly special about watching three generations create side by side — encouraging one another, laughing, sharing ideas, and celebrating each finished piece. From Kim’s glowing suncatcher to Gary the raccoon, from the moonlit wave to Kennedy’s night light (and her nine bonus pendants!), the studio was filled with creativity and heart. These are the days I cherish most — not just because of the beautiful glass, but because of the memories made while creating it.
If you’d like to see more of my fused glass work, please visit my website: Elegant Fused Glass by Karen.
While you’re there, be sure to explore the full site — and don’t forget to check out my Elegant Fused Glass by Karen YouTube for even more inspiration! If you’d like to stay up-to-date with my latest projects, classes, and special offerings, you can also sign up for my monthly newsletter, published on the information on my site. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a private class, feel free to email me at elegantfusedglass@gmail.com. I’d love to help you create something beautiful!
Keeping my kilns warm,
Karen
