CoURSE Description
Bring a touch of magic to your windowsill or garden with this beautiful short course. Led by the talented Karen Mallinson, you will dive into the enchanting world of copper foiling—the iconic glass technique originally pioneered by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
Whether you consider yourself “creative” or are just looking for a peaceful afternoon to try something new, this workshop is designed for you. Karen provides expert guidance and pre-cut glass shapes in a stunning array of colours, making the process accessible, relaxing, and deeply rewarding.
What You Will Learn
-
The fundamentals of the Tiffany copper foiling method.
-
How to expertly solder your glass pieces together.
-
The art of applying patina to give your solder a professional, finished look.
-
How to assemble your butterfly onto its unique stand.
The Result
By the end of the session, you’ll have created an elegant glass butterfly (approx 15cm wide by 11cm high), mounted on a long, stable steel rod and a slate base.) The best part? The butterfly is designed to “bob” magically in the air, creating a dynamic piece of art that catches the light and moves with the breeze.
FAQs
Q: What should I wear?
A: Just comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dusty, and closed-toe shoes (nothing open like sandals or flip-flops). Avoid loose sleeves if possible, but we have elastic bands if needed.
Q: What's included in the course price?
A: Everything you need – all glass, tools, kiln firing, safety equipment, tea and coffee throughout the day, and biscuits. You just need to bring yourself! The only extra would be if you want to make additional pieces beyond what’s included in the course.
Q: Do I take my finished pieces home the same day?
For fusing courses, no – your pieces need to go in the kiln, so you can collect them when they’re ready (usually a week or so later) or we can post them to you but we really don’t recommend postage because glass is easily broken in the post. You can choose postage at your own risk, we charge a minimum of £8 (depending on the size of the piece) to cover postage cost & packaging.
For stained glass, copper foiling and other non-fusing courses, yes – you take them home at the end of the course.
Q: What if I don't finish my piece?
A: Don’t worry, we build in enough time for everyone to complete their projects. Jennifer keeps an eye on everyone’s progress. If you’re a bit slower, that’s fine – we’d rather you do it properly than rush.
Q: Is lunch provided?
A: We provide tea, coffee, and biscuits throughout the day, but not lunch. You’re welcome to bring sandwiches to eat in our comfy break area or outside if the weather’s nice, or there are plenty of nice pubs & cafes approx 1 mile away in the centre of Frodsham.
Q: How do I find you?
A: We’re pretty easy to find – just off the main road between Frodsham and Kingsley. We’re upstairs in the Barn at Bradley Farm Stables (look out for the horses 🙂 )
Our studio address is
Bradley Farm,
Bradley Lane,
Frodsham,
Cheshire WA6 7EP
Google Maps Link: https://share.google/Rs5h7PbS4m6ZmvNE9
There’s parking on the road right outside the barn and on the large grass verge just around the corner from the farm.
