Adventure brief
Soldering 101
Spend two immersive hours mastering soldering techniques for stained glass at Colorado Glass Works in Boulder. Perfect for makers ready to refine their craft with expert guidance and hands-on practice.
Colorado Glass Works in Boulder, Colorado, offers a unique hands-on experience that blends craftsmanship with creativity: their Soldering 101 workshop. Situated in a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventures beneath the Flatirons, this two-hour class is a rare invitation to engage with one of the finer arts of stained glass making. Boulder’s rugged landscapes often steal the spotlight, but within this creative hub, you find a different kind of adventure—shaping molten metal and glass into precise, gleaming lines.
The workshop is designed for beginners and intermediate artists eager to sharpen their soldering technique. Participants gain the confidence to wield a soldering iron while learning to create flawless solder lines essential to high-quality stained glass work. Instruction covers critical skills from preparing materials, handling foil widths for different artistic effects, to mastering frame assembly and jump ring attachment with ease.
Troubleshooting common soldering challenges is a key highlight, empowering students to resolve issues before they affect the finished piece. Colorado Glass Works stands out in Boulder’s creative scene by offering detailed, focused instruction in a studio that accommodates all skill levels. The city’s combination of arts culture and outdoor spirit makes this workshop an ideal break from trail hikes or mountain biking, yet no less rewarding.
Attendees walk away not only with a polished technique but also with a stronger connection to an enduring craft rooted in patience and precision. Located at 1500 Pearl St ste d, the studio offers wheelchair-accessible facilities and all necessary materials, making the experience approachable and inclusive. While Boulder is best known for its natural beauty, Colorado Glass Works adds a vital dimension to the local outdoor and cultural landscape, bridging natural inspiration with handcrafted expression.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Close-Toed Shoesessential
Soldering involves hot tools—close-toed shoes protect your feet from accidental drips or dropped equipment.
- 02Arrive Earlyinfo
Get settled a few minutes before class starts to pick your project and optimize your workshop time.
- 03Bring a Water Bottleinfo
Stay hydrated during the class as the studio does not have a drinking fountain on-site.
- 04Protect Your Workspaceessential
Avoid bringing food or drinks other than water into the studio to maintain a safe, clean environment.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Closed-Toed Shoes
Protect your feet from hot solder and tools during the workshop.
EssentialWater Bottle
Keep hydrated as the studio does not provide drinking fountains.
EssentialComfortable Clothing
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty or stained.
EssentialSafety Glasses
Optional—extra protection during soldering is available if preferred.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse – authentic Central Asian architecture, Pearl Street Mall’s local artisan shops and galleries
Local fauna
Red-tailed hawks circling the Flatirons, Mule deer occasionally spotted in nearby open spaces
Historic heritage
Boulder’s rich arts community grew alongside its outdoor recreation culture, creating a unique blend of creativity grounded in nature.
Mindful exploration
The studio encourages the use of recycled glass and safe disposal of lead-based solder, minimizing environmental impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Pearl Street with its vibrant street life, The Flatirons rock formations nearby
- Subjects
- Stained glass pieces in natural light, Close-up shots of soldering techniques, Boulder’s mountain backdrop
- Best times
- Late afternoon for warm natural light inside the studio, Golden hour around the Flatirons before class
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior experience to take the Soldering 101 workshop?
No prior experience is required; the class is designed for beginners and those wanting to improve their soldering skills.
Are materials and tools provided?
Yes, all necessary materials and tools are included in the class fee.
Is the studio wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Colorado Glass Works is fully ADA accessible.
What is the minimum age for participants?
Participants must be at least 14 years old; under 16 require a guardian present.
Can I park near the studio?
Paid parking is available in the 1500 Parking Garage attached to the building, and some free street parking is a few blocks away.
Are food or beverages allowed in the studio?
Only water bottles are allowed for safety and cleanliness reasons.