Vitreous in Motion: Torch-Fired Enameling

Add luminous, high-impact color to your metalwork in this exciting two-day workshop focused on torch-fired enameling—one of the most direct, satisfying, and accessible ways to work with vitreous enamel.

Unlike kiln firing, torch enameling lets you witness the magic in real time! As heat meets powdered glass, you’ll watch the surface transform right before your eyes: from dry and granular, to a delicate “sugar coat,” to orange peel texture, to full glossy maturity—and even beyond. You’ll learn how to stop at any stage to capture a range of expressive finishes, from soft and matte to brilliantly glassy.

This workshop is open to all levels. Beginners will gain confidence cutting and sawing intricate metal shapes to enamel, while more experienced students may incorporate additional metalsmithing techniques that they already know into their pieces, such as etching, hydraulic press forming, or even raising. Basic wire and tube riveting and simple fold-forming will also be introduced as ways to add structure and connection to enamel work.

By the end of the weekend, students will leave with finished enamel samples or small pieces, a strong foundation in working with sifted enamels, and the skills to safely and creatively fire enamel using a torch.

Come ready to experiment, play with color, and watch glass come alive in your hands.

Please be advised: Due to the need to order supplies, we customarily close registration for our on-site offerings one week before the start date. If you wish to join the class after registration closes, please contact us at [email protected] or 781-891-3854.