Metal + Glass or (glass casting) metal 2 please, see below:
What is the minimum age allowable in this course?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
What day of the week/hour is this course?
Monday or Wednesday evenings 6:30-9:30pm (Currently Metal + Glass runs 4 weeks)
When does the next course start? How often do you have them?
Courses run every 4 or 8 weeks (longer for FG and Metal 2), this information is updated on the website every month.
Will I learn how to cast using the lost wax process? Will I learn how to make a mould? Will I be able to do this from home when I finish the course?
Yes, the 3rd evening students work with wax for casting in sterling silver or brass. You could do this at home- equipment runs around $800 to $1000+ and takes practice. For great results most people have their wax models cast through a company downtown- there are several, and this is all that they do. Occasional guest artists come in and teach various techniques (mold making, centrifugal casting or glass). And, if required students make simple alginate moulds in class.
Can I use my own stones or do I have to order from your supplier?
Yes, students always bring in their own stones, found objects, etc. The resource list I hand out just helps people know where to purchase metal, books, stones, etc., locally and abroad but you do not have to buy from any of them.
Will I learn how to stamp metal? Will I come out of the course being able to make pendants and rings?
YES! for sure. The 2nd evening everyone learns how to make ring bands using sterling silver. I show you how to add textures using various tools, materials. Plus I give you a handout that details the whole process so you can repeat it at home, in your own studio, etc.
Will I learn how to solder?
YES! Using an oxygen & propane torch with silver solder. I discuss different solders, melting points, etc. Metal + Glass teaches basic joint soldering, and sweat soldering if applicable.
It says Metal + Glass – What does glass mean? Glass beads? Stained Glass?
Glass, in this instance refers to Casting or Flameworking. Flameworking is the process of melting glass and wrapping it around steel mandrels or sculpting it off mandrel. One evening during the course we work with Italian ‘soft’ glass.
Flameworking is amazing and has been around approx 30,000 years. In the 8 week course people are making beads. Glass casting either using the Lost Wax method or Pate de Verre is now offered in the metal + glass 8 week course.
Are materials included in the price?
Sterling silver for 1 ring band. Copper: 2″x3″ piece, enamel, wax: enough to create a ring, or small pendant, saw blades: 1doz, glass, solder are included. The cost for student´s Lost wax castings is extra (range $10-$100+ this depends on each individual), Cuttlefish/Sand castings are extra (but not mandatory). Some stones are available however students generally like to bring in their own (see Resources for some local supplier!). Sterling silver, gold, brass, etc., pricing is based upon the Spot price of the day. Glass is included in the Ars Vitraria course. JUST METAL (or metal 2) has a lab & materials fee necessary for this course. If you are looking to create specific designs but, still need guidance and/or to learn certain techniques- Private classes are available.
How many pieces can/will I make in the 8 weeks?
A minimum of 6, maximum has ranged between 12-15 (this is including glass beads made).
If I miss an evening can I make it up?
Generally speaking, no. That said, if notification is received 24 hours in advance a make-up session might be scheduled if time allows. If two months or more have passed since your course/workshop has ended- make-up sessions are no longer available however Open Studio time is! If evening classes are postponed due to lack of sufficient student attendance – these evenings will be rescheduled. Please make sure the Instructor has your contact information such as: cell number and working email. In case they need to contact you concerning a reschedule.
I can no longer take the class, do I get my deposit back (or a credit towards another class)? NO.
Please see Refunds below-
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off* (for groups of 3, maximum 5 students per course) *Private classes and courses booked outside of regularly scheduled evenings do not receive discounts.
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
Nanopod: Hybrid Studio strives to be a green, environmentally friendly, non-toxic studio where it can, using ‘green’ alternatives in place of normally dangerous and harmful chemicals.
The studio is equipped with two ventilation systems, fresh/new dust masks, safety goggles/glasses, and latex free gloves.
After the first trimester it is generally deemed safe.
Since I am a beginner do you think this course would be suitable for me?
It is geared towards absolute beginners. I have had many OCAD & George Brown students take my classes, Archeologists from the ROM, mount makers from the AGO- all levels can benefit- but especially beginners.
Of course everything takes practice. Many people I have worked with have continued forward and sell their work in craft shows, create custom pieces, sell on Etsy, etc. I recommend people take notes and ask questions, after the first or second evening purchase a few tools from a jewelry supply store and practice at home, take more classes at my studio or elsewhere, read books. There are many different approaches and tricks for the same techniques.
What if I want to make something other than what is scheduled for that evening? For instance, I don’t want to make a ring band, or work with glass, or even work with the materials included in the lab & materials fee:
The classes are structured to teach basic techniques by guiding a group through a series of specific projects. From experience, it is unfair to everyone taking the class to diverge from the course outline for one or more participants because it effectively reduces the amount of instruction that everyone receives and creates confusion in a group session.
Also from experience, when ideas are brought to the beginning class that are at an advanced level (beyond what you can resonably finish during 3hrs or the course) or stray far from the curriculum, Instructors find that they too often end up in the awkward position of making people’s pieces for them. The course outline allows for individual expression within manageable expectations. Please visit the Flickr site to see examples of student work made in the course.
Respectfully, if you are not prepared to follow the course curriculum, nanopod would recommend that this course is not suited to your requirements. Please see, Private Classes.
——————————————————————————————————-
Ring Band workshop
What is the minimum age allowable in this workshop?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
Can I set a stone in this workshop?
Stone setting is not included in this workshop. Please see the Metal + Glass course for this.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
Discounts only apply to courses over $200CAD.
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
Nanopod: Hybrid Studio strives to be a green, environmentally friendly, non-toxic studio where it can, using ‘green’ alternatives in place of normally dangerous and harmful chemicals.
The studio is equipped with two ventilation systems, fresh/new dust masks, safety goggles/glasses, and latex free gloves.
After the first trimester it is generally deemed safe.
————————————————————————————–
Glass Fusing workshop
What is the minimum age allowable in this workshop?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off (for groups of 3, maximum 7 students per course).
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
This workshop consists of cutting, layering, and embedding objects/material in the glass. No torches are used. Fusing is done after the workshop/when the studio closes.
Dust masks are recommended and used when working with fine glass powders- if applicable.
All glass used is lead-free.
It is still a good idea to speak with your doctor first.
————————————————————————————--
Glass Casting
What is the minimum age allowable in this course?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
Are materials included in the price?
All materials are included; glass for trying out the various demo’s and casting several small items. One disposable particulate respirator is included however, students are encouraged to bring their own half face respirators (with 3M N95 Particulate Filter) to class. Safety glasses are also provided for use at the studio as are aprons to protect clothing and Nitril (latex free) gloves. Students may wish to add metal inclusions to their castings- some copper wire will be available for use. Other metals such as Fine silver, gold foil, copper sheet is up to the student to bring.
How many pieces can/will I make in the intensive course?
This course is primarily about process, working with the materials and various techniques. Students can expect to make a piece demonstrating each technique shown or, 1 to 2 pieces incorporating each technique
If I miss a day can I make it up?
If a class has to be postponed due to a Holiday or illness another date/time will be scheduled to make-up techniques missed. Should a student need to miss a day it is appreciated if you would email ahead with this information- in this instance the studio will attempt to schedule a make-up date/time.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off (for groups of 3, maximum 5 students per course).
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Yes.
—————————————————————————–
Refunds
Unless noted otherwise, workshops and courses are limited to 6 students to ensure you get the best instruction. To register for a class participants have a couple of options. Payment in FULL or half down with remainder paid ahead of the start date- reminder is sent out.
2 week cancellation notice: Full credit of deposit towards another course
1 week cancellation notice: 50% (or half of the deposit made) towards another course
Last minute or same day cancellation notice: No refund. A credit is possible if the studio receives the remaining course fee the day of cancellation. For instance: metal + glass: $100 deposit, $180 remaining. Ars Vitraria: $292.50 deposit, $292.5 remaining
Why am I now required to make payment in full ahead of the course start, rather than a deposit? Due to an increase in people randomly deciding to forfeit their $100 deposits, last minute, on the same day the class they initially registered for and not attend the course.
Payment towards a course or workshop goes towards purchasing supplies in order for classes to run successfully. A percentage of this payment covers studio rent and costs, and a small, less than minimum wage, goes to the instructor. This is the artist/instructor’s ‘day’ job. When you flake out and decide to suddenly not show and in turn, not cover the space that is now empty, you hurt an independently run business. Due to the last minute nature of your decision- the space is unable to be filled, in hopes to recoup lost monies, unpaid rent.
With that said, We highly recommend you check your schedule before committing. These courses and workshops are like any other business or school in Toronto- you do not receive a refund when you decide to no longer attend University, right?
IF something unexpected should arise and you can no longer make a particular evening, the instructor might be able to reschedule a make-up class, however, time is generally an issue as other workshops and courses are taking place. The evening you missed might fall within another class when they are covering the process missed.
Once the first evening has started and consent forms have been signed refunds are no longer issued under any circumstance.
#1 Safety rule:
In consideration of everyone’s safety, nanopod: Hybrid Studio requires students to attend class alcohol and drug free. Working with industrial tools and equipment can be hazardous to your health when not properly respected. Please respect this rule at nanopod: Hybrid Studio. Thanks!
Breaking tools/equipment: Students are shown how to properly use and work with all tools and equipment necessary in their respective workshops/courses. Often instruction is demonstrated several times. Students are encouraged to take notes however, if they are ever unclear as to how a tool is properly used or equipment is used please, ask your instructor! If you break the tool or equipment- you pay for a replacement.
Still have a question?
Please email: [email protected]
and we will respond as soon as possible.
Email is the fastest way to reach us!
What is the minimum age allowable in this course?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
What day of the week/hour is this course?
Monday or Wednesday evenings 6:30-9:30pm (Currently Metal + Glass runs 4 weeks)
When does the next course start? How often do you have them?
Courses run every 4 or 8 weeks (longer for FG and Metal 2), this information is updated on the website every month.
Will I learn how to cast using the lost wax process? Will I learn how to make a mould? Will I be able to do this from home when I finish the course?
Yes, the 3rd evening students work with wax for casting in sterling silver or brass. You could do this at home- equipment runs around $800 to $1000+ and takes practice. For great results most people have their wax models cast through a company downtown- there are several, and this is all that they do. Occasional guest artists come in and teach various techniques (mold making, centrifugal casting or glass). And, if required students make simple alginate moulds in class.
Can I use my own stones or do I have to order from your supplier?
Yes, students always bring in their own stones, found objects, etc. The resource list I hand out just helps people know where to purchase metal, books, stones, etc., locally and abroad but you do not have to buy from any of them.
Will I learn how to stamp metal? Will I come out of the course being able to make pendants and rings?
YES! for sure. The 2nd evening everyone learns how to make ring bands using sterling silver. I show you how to add textures using various tools, materials. Plus I give you a handout that details the whole process so you can repeat it at home, in your own studio, etc.
Will I learn how to solder?
YES! Using an oxygen & propane torch with silver solder. I discuss different solders, melting points, etc. Metal + Glass teaches basic joint soldering, and sweat soldering if applicable.
It says Metal + Glass – What does glass mean? Glass beads? Stained Glass?
Glass, in this instance refers to Casting or Flameworking. Flameworking is the process of melting glass and wrapping it around steel mandrels or sculpting it off mandrel. One evening during the course we work with Italian ‘soft’ glass.
Flameworking is amazing and has been around approx 30,000 years. In the 8 week course people are making beads. Glass casting either using the Lost Wax method or Pate de Verre is now offered in the metal + glass 8 week course.
Are materials included in the price?
Sterling silver for 1 ring band. Copper: 2″x3″ piece, enamel, wax: enough to create a ring, or small pendant, saw blades: 1doz, glass, solder are included. The cost for student´s Lost wax castings is extra (range $10-$100+ this depends on each individual), Cuttlefish/Sand castings are extra (but not mandatory). Some stones are available however students generally like to bring in their own (see Resources for some local supplier!). Sterling silver, gold, brass, etc., pricing is based upon the Spot price of the day. Glass is included in the Ars Vitraria course. JUST METAL (or metal 2) has a lab & materials fee necessary for this course. If you are looking to create specific designs but, still need guidance and/or to learn certain techniques- Private classes are available.
How many pieces can/will I make in the 8 weeks?
A minimum of 6, maximum has ranged between 12-15 (this is including glass beads made).
If I miss an evening can I make it up?
Generally speaking, no. That said, if notification is received 24 hours in advance a make-up session might be scheduled if time allows. If two months or more have passed since your course/workshop has ended- make-up sessions are no longer available however Open Studio time is! If evening classes are postponed due to lack of sufficient student attendance – these evenings will be rescheduled. Please make sure the Instructor has your contact information such as: cell number and working email. In case they need to contact you concerning a reschedule.
I can no longer take the class, do I get my deposit back (or a credit towards another class)? NO.
Please see Refunds below-
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off* (for groups of 3, maximum 5 students per course) *Private classes and courses booked outside of regularly scheduled evenings do not receive discounts.
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
Nanopod: Hybrid Studio strives to be a green, environmentally friendly, non-toxic studio where it can, using ‘green’ alternatives in place of normally dangerous and harmful chemicals.
The studio is equipped with two ventilation systems, fresh/new dust masks, safety goggles/glasses, and latex free gloves.
After the first trimester it is generally deemed safe.
Since I am a beginner do you think this course would be suitable for me?
It is geared towards absolute beginners. I have had many OCAD & George Brown students take my classes, Archeologists from the ROM, mount makers from the AGO- all levels can benefit- but especially beginners.
Of course everything takes practice. Many people I have worked with have continued forward and sell their work in craft shows, create custom pieces, sell on Etsy, etc. I recommend people take notes and ask questions, after the first or second evening purchase a few tools from a jewelry supply store and practice at home, take more classes at my studio or elsewhere, read books. There are many different approaches and tricks for the same techniques.
What if I want to make something other than what is scheduled for that evening? For instance, I don’t want to make a ring band, or work with glass, or even work with the materials included in the lab & materials fee:
The classes are structured to teach basic techniques by guiding a group through a series of specific projects. From experience, it is unfair to everyone taking the class to diverge from the course outline for one or more participants because it effectively reduces the amount of instruction that everyone receives and creates confusion in a group session.
Also from experience, when ideas are brought to the beginning class that are at an advanced level (beyond what you can resonably finish during 3hrs or the course) or stray far from the curriculum, Instructors find that they too often end up in the awkward position of making people’s pieces for them. The course outline allows for individual expression within manageable expectations. Please visit the Flickr site to see examples of student work made in the course.
Respectfully, if you are not prepared to follow the course curriculum, nanopod would recommend that this course is not suited to your requirements. Please see, Private Classes.
——————————————————————————————————-
Ring Band workshop
What is the minimum age allowable in this workshop?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
Can I set a stone in this workshop?
Stone setting is not included in this workshop. Please see the Metal + Glass course for this.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
Discounts only apply to courses over $200CAD.
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
Nanopod: Hybrid Studio strives to be a green, environmentally friendly, non-toxic studio where it can, using ‘green’ alternatives in place of normally dangerous and harmful chemicals.
The studio is equipped with two ventilation systems, fresh/new dust masks, safety goggles/glasses, and latex free gloves.
After the first trimester it is generally deemed safe.
————————————————————————————–
Glass Fusing workshop
What is the minimum age allowable in this workshop?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off (for groups of 3, maximum 7 students per course).
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Always speak with your doctor or midwife concerning this.
This workshop consists of cutting, layering, and embedding objects/material in the glass. No torches are used. Fusing is done after the workshop/when the studio closes.
Dust masks are recommended and used when working with fine glass powders- if applicable.
All glass used is lead-free.
It is still a good idea to speak with your doctor first.
————————————————————————————--
Glass Casting
What is the minimum age allowable in this course?
13 with parental/guardian signed consent form.
Are materials included in the price?
All materials are included; glass for trying out the various demo’s and casting several small items. One disposable particulate respirator is included however, students are encouraged to bring their own half face respirators (with 3M N95 Particulate Filter) to class. Safety glasses are also provided for use at the studio as are aprons to protect clothing and Nitril (latex free) gloves. Students may wish to add metal inclusions to their castings- some copper wire will be available for use. Other metals such as Fine silver, gold foil, copper sheet is up to the student to bring.
How many pieces can/will I make in the intensive course?
This course is primarily about process, working with the materials and various techniques. Students can expect to make a piece demonstrating each technique shown or, 1 to 2 pieces incorporating each technique
If I miss a day can I make it up?
If a class has to be postponed due to a Holiday or illness another date/time will be scheduled to make-up techniques missed. Should a student need to miss a day it is appreciated if you would email ahead with this information- in this instance the studio will attempt to schedule a make-up date/time.
If I take the course with a group of friends, is there a discount?
YES! Everyone receives 10% off (for groups of 3, maximum 5 students per course).
I am pregnant; can I take this course?
Yes.
—————————————————————————–
Refunds
Unless noted otherwise, workshops and courses are limited to 6 students to ensure you get the best instruction. To register for a class participants have a couple of options. Payment in FULL or half down with remainder paid ahead of the start date- reminder is sent out.
2 week cancellation notice: Full credit of deposit towards another course
1 week cancellation notice: 50% (or half of the deposit made) towards another course
Last minute or same day cancellation notice: No refund. A credit is possible if the studio receives the remaining course fee the day of cancellation. For instance: metal + glass: $100 deposit, $180 remaining. Ars Vitraria: $292.50 deposit, $292.5 remaining
Why am I now required to make payment in full ahead of the course start, rather than a deposit? Due to an increase in people randomly deciding to forfeit their $100 deposits, last minute, on the same day the class they initially registered for and not attend the course.
Payment towards a course or workshop goes towards purchasing supplies in order for classes to run successfully. A percentage of this payment covers studio rent and costs, and a small, less than minimum wage, goes to the instructor. This is the artist/instructor’s ‘day’ job. When you flake out and decide to suddenly not show and in turn, not cover the space that is now empty, you hurt an independently run business. Due to the last minute nature of your decision- the space is unable to be filled, in hopes to recoup lost monies, unpaid rent.
With that said, We highly recommend you check your schedule before committing. These courses and workshops are like any other business or school in Toronto- you do not receive a refund when you decide to no longer attend University, right?
IF something unexpected should arise and you can no longer make a particular evening, the instructor might be able to reschedule a make-up class, however, time is generally an issue as other workshops and courses are taking place. The evening you missed might fall within another class when they are covering the process missed.
Once the first evening has started and consent forms have been signed refunds are no longer issued under any circumstance.
#1 Safety rule:
In consideration of everyone’s safety, nanopod: Hybrid Studio requires students to attend class alcohol and drug free. Working with industrial tools and equipment can be hazardous to your health when not properly respected. Please respect this rule at nanopod: Hybrid Studio. Thanks!
Breaking tools/equipment: Students are shown how to properly use and work with all tools and equipment necessary in their respective workshops/courses. Often instruction is demonstrated several times. Students are encouraged to take notes however, if they are ever unclear as to how a tool is properly used or equipment is used please, ask your instructor! If you break the tool or equipment- you pay for a replacement.
Still have a question?
Please email: [email protected]
and we will respond as soon as possible.
Email is the fastest way to reach us!