TurtleBeads
Studio
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A glass turtle for everyone! Flameworked artglass
beads and custom jewellery by Ania Kyte. 
~ Classes...
~ In this section, you will find information on my private instruction bead-making classes, along with detailed class descriptions , cost outlines, and studio photographs...
- learn the basic skills of working with hot glass,
- learn about different kinds of glass and their origins,
- take your time making a bead without distractions,
- examine basic materials, equipment and supplies,
- see what's required to set up a working studio,
- and ask as many questions as come to mind!
Side-by-side workstations
This is a good class for someone who has never worked with hot glass and would like to try the experience of making glass beads. This is a less-intensive course than the Level 2 Intermediate class, and is recommended for those who would like to explore the idea of whether making glass beads in a torch flame is their artform of choice.
The Introductory class includes the following:
- 1.5 hours of private instruction
- student-dedicated workspace
- all materials and equipment used during class
The Introductory class covers the following topics:
- safety and equipment
- pulling stringer (thin rods)
- making a round bead
- decorating a basic bead
- cooling and cleaning your beads
- books, suppliers, and online resources
The Introductory class cost = $75.00 Cnd.
To purchase an Introductory class:
1. Email Ania to arrange a class date/time at
and/or
2. Click on PayPal button below to purchase a class:
This is a good class for someone who has previously tried working with hot glass either in a private or group setting, or for someone who is ready to take on the challenge of learning all the basic techniques of making glass beads. This is a more intensive course than the Introductory class, and is recommended for those who plan on setting up a studio or who have decided to make a commitment towards making beads on a regular basis.
The Intermediate class includes the following:
- 3.0 hours of private instruction
- student-dedicated workspace
- all materials and equipment used during class
The Intermediate class covers the following topics:
- safety and equipment
- pulling stringer (thin rods)
- making a round bead
- decorating a basic bead
- shaping a bead using a mold
- decorating a bead using dots
- encasing a bead in transparent glass
- cooling, annealing, and cleaning your beads
- setting up your studio or workspace
- recommended books, suppliers, and online resources
The Intermediate class cost = $145.00 Cnd.
To purchase an Intermediate class:
1. Email Ania to arrange a class date/time at
and/or
2. Click on PayPal button below to purchase a class:
Gift Certificates
~ If you would like to surprise someone with a special gift of a bead-making class, you can purchase a gift certificate. The gift certificate can either be printed by you, or can be mailed to you, or directly to the recipient, whichever you choose. The certificate can then can be redeemed by the recipient when arranging a class at a later date/time.
~ Please email Ania at turtlebeads@hotmail.com after your purchase to indicate your request and specific instructions.
A) To purchase an Introductory class
Gift Certificate = $75.00 Cnd.
Click on PayPal button below:
B) To purchase an Intermediate class
Gift Certificate = $145.00 Cnd.
Click on PayPal button below:
~ Class confirmation, along with detailed instructions and directions to the studio, will be provided in an email or by phone once your class arrangements are finalized. For reasons of safety and comfort, please prepare yourself for the class as follows:
b) if you have long hair, bring something to tie it back;
c) if you wear glasses of any type, please wear/bring them;
d) if you are interested in taking notes, please bring a notepad.
Instructor's workspace
Student's workspace
~ Many of my students discover during the class that they want to make beads on a regular basis, and this requires them to set up some sort of studio/workspace. Since some of the equipment and materials are specialized, I try to make the initial set-up easier by preparing and providing a beginner set-up kit to my students upon request. The kit includes the following:
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Tools, equipment, and supplies:
- Hot Head Torch
- Torch mounting hardware
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Gas hose
- Bead Release powder and jar for mixing
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Ceramic Fiber Blanket
- 20 Bead Mandrels (10 @ 1/16", and 10 @ 3/32")
- 20 rods of Assorted Moretti/Effetre Glass
- Sample frit (crushed glass) and 2 frit holders
- Basic Safety glasses
- Needlenose pliers (for pulling stringer)
- 2 printed hardcopy articles on setting up your studio space and decorating beads, both written by Ania Kyte
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The total cost of the above-listed kit is $195.00 Cnd. and includes all of the above supplies, tools and equipment.
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In addition to the beginner kit listed on the left, you will also need to prepare the following to finalize the set up of your workspace:
- a work table, covered with tile/sheet metal/etc.;
- a tin filled with sand or gravel for drying mandrels;
- a BBQ-size propane gas tank;
- a ventilated work space.
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In addition to the above, start saving for two additional pieces of equipment required in the future after your initial set up:
- a pair of special safety glasses called Didymiums: these protect your eyes from long-term effects of the flame, which you will need if you are spending any significant amount of time at the torch;
- an annealing kiln in order to cool your beads slowly for longevity and durability (if you plan to sell your beads or use them in jewellery, you want them to last, therefore, kiln-annealed beads are the standard for North American artisan beads).