Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts — Attraction in Minneapolis

I recently took the glassblowing discovery session, making a glass paperweight. Loved this class! I was one of 3 participants in the session. We learned about the steps we would move through to make the paperweight, and then were individually instructed through each step to complete the project. Very satisfying to complete and a great primer to whet your appetite to learn more. One note: It is quite warm even in winter in the hot room. Believe it! Definitely recommend!!

I also recently took the glass fusing discovery class. In this class you make a small (~4x4) dish. So fun! You do this on a flat surface, and learn about the types of glass materials, including various glass remnants and frit, and learn basic glass cutting techniques. Finished examples are shown to help you come up with an idea of what you want to make. The instructor demonstrates the various tools, cutting techniques and how to adhere materials to the base glass sheet. Then, you are turned loose to do your own thing so your creative juices can flow. A fun class!

For both classes, you need to return a a few days later to pick up your project, as the projects must be fired and cooled. These discovery classes are great ways to learn more about various glass arts and come home with beautiful...

We came with a group to learn how to make our own glass paper weights. The class was excellent! Our instructor went above and beyond by explaining things very well, answering all our questions and even making it educational. The best part? They really want you to do as much of it on your own which was really fun. I appreciated that our instructor walked us through the whole entire process first and then was ready to assist us if we needed it. The worst part? The class goes by so fast because you’re having such a good time. Make sure to check out their shop too which is full of handmade items. They also offer a variety of classes...

The glass flower making class was so much fun. Me and my co-worker were looking for something fun and unique to try and we found it here. I was a little nervous that it was going to be more scary than it was, since I had zero background in glass blowing/glass working, however, our instructor was so good at explaining every step before we started it. I never felt rushed and our instructor was so positive and great at making us feel comfortable. I was also worried I was going to be dying by the end due to the heat, but they have amazing A/C and I was comfortable the whole time. Great experience and I already have my...