You asked for it!

Having always wondered how glass is cut in order to create a beautiful stained glass design, I participated in the class that Brad, our BB2C Makerspace Coordinator, set up as a test run. Now I know how it happens, and I know that I can do it too! I have a much better appreciation for the works of stained glass art that I see in a variety of places. Tom Pralley, the new instructor, was informative and (thank heavens) patient with me as I fumbled along with the various tools needed to cut glass. 

Brad has been working on developing the new Stained Glass Space since the BB2C Makerspace open house in April, where the 50 or so community members that stopped in took a survey about their interests. Stained glass was by far the top choice. He immediately started looking for an instructor, which took quite a while. We were lucky to find Tom Pralley to teach the classes and provide the list of tools to get the space set-up.

Tom is a Parkersburg native and a 1983 graduate of Parkersburg HS. At a young age he was exposed to wood working and has carried that interest with him into his adult life. At the urging of a friend in 2005, he cut glass for the first time and developed a passion for this art form. He also accepts commissions for his work.

Tom developed and will be teaching our first introductory stained glass class. This 2 part, 5 hour class will expose you to all of the skills needed to do stained glass while making a 4 panel 6" square window. All materials and tools will be provided for the class. At this point we have everything that anyone would need to make their own stained glass piece here at the BB2C Makerspace. Our intro class will give you a lot of the skills needed to get started, and then as a member you can utilize the space and our Content Experts to progress in your abilities. The Stained Glass space will be available during open making hours to BB2C Makerspace members to make their own creations.

Thanks for joining us, Tom!