Adventure brief
Technique Class: Pressed Flowers in Stained Glass
Explore the delicate artistry of pressed flowers in stained glass with this intermediate workshop in Boulder. Learn to preserve your own blooms and craft radiant glass pieces at Colorado Glass Works.
Set against the creative backdrop of Boulder, Colorado, the Technique Class: Pressed Flowers in Stained Glass at Colorado Glass Works offers an immersive journey into the delicate craft of incorporating botanical treasures into luminous stained-glass art. This intermediate-level workshop invites participants with some stained-glass experience to deepen their skills by learning how to embed pressed flowers and leaves into glass creations, transforming everyday flora into radiant artworks that capture the natural world in vibrant detail. Located in downtown Boulder, a city celebrated for its artistic community and close proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Glass Works stands as a beacon for glass artisans and enthusiasts.
The studio’s commitment to quality and education provides a unique learning environment where tradition meets innovation. Here, participants not only master technical skills but also gain insights into growing and pressing their own flowers, allowing them to personalize each project with a piece of their own garden or gathered wildflowers. The two-hour class guides each artisan through creating a honeycomb-style stained-glass piece that showcases pressed flowers, emphasizing techniques to prevent common challenges such as rot or discoloration.
Students learn to carefully select, press, and preserve flora before integrating them into the fragile glass panels, ensuring their work lasts and dazzles. Everything needed for the workshop—from tools to materials—is provided, allowing for a fully focused creative experience without any preparation stress. Artists age 10 and older are welcome, with guardians invited alongside young participants.
Accessibility is thoughtfully prioritized, as the studio is wheelchair and stroller accessible, supporting inclusivity in art education. Boulder’s cultural richness extends beyond the studio walls, offering visitors an inspiring setting to explore local art galleries, mountain trails, and farm-to-table eateries after class. The city’s picturesque streets and vibrant outdoor scene provide ample inspiration for future projects.
For those eager to capture Boulder’s artistic fusion of nature and craft, this pressed-flower stained-glass workshop is not just a class but an opportunity to create lasting beauty rooted in nature’s own designs. Whether you’re a dedicated glassworker or a returning student aiming to develop your unique style, this experience is a standout choice for creatives exploring the Rocky Mountain region’s thriving art scene.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early to Settle Ininfo
Arriving a few minutes before start time allows you to select your project and prepare without rushing, maximizing your two-hour session.
- 02Wear Closed-Toe Shoesessential
Safety first—closed-toe shoes protect your feet while working with glass and tools in the studio.
- 03Bring a Water Bottleinfo
Stay hydrated during class, as there is no drinking fountain on site.
- 04Parking Optionsinfo
Weekend parking is free in the 1500 Garage attached to the building, while weekday parking requires payment; nearby street parking may be free further away if you enjoy a short walk.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protects feet from glass shards and tools inside the studio.
EssentialWater Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the session.
EssentialEyeglasses or Safety Glasses
Helpful to protect eyes and aid detailed work if you need vision correction.
Light Layered Clothing
The studio can vary in temperature, so layers help you stay comfortable.
spring;fallLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Explore the Boulder Creek Path nearby for a refreshing post-class walk, Visit the Pearl Street Mall for local art and dining just minutes from the studio
Local fauna
Red-tailed hawks often soar above Boulder’s open skies, Mule deer may be spotted in nearby foothill areas
Historic heritage
Boulder has been a hub for arts and crafts since the early 20th century, evolving alongside its natural surroundings and outdoor culture.
Mindful exploration
Colorado Glass Works emphasizes sustainable art by encouraging use of locally sourced natural materials and responsible studio practices to minimize waste.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Classroom workbench for close-up shots of projects, Studio window with natural light illuminating flower details, Outside the facility with Boulder’s mountain backdrop
- Subjects
- Pressed flowers embedded in glass, Artisans at work with tools, Natural light enhancing glass colors
- Best times
- Morning light inside studio for vibrant colors, Late afternoon to catch golden hues through stained glass
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is this class suitable for beginners?
This is an intermediate class and requires prior basic stained-glass experience or completion of a beginner’s class.
Can I bring my own flowers?
Yes, you can bring pressed flowers, but the class also teaches how to source and press your own.
Are all materials provided?
Yes, all glass, tools, and materials for your projects are included in the class price.
Is the studio wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Colorado Glass Works studio is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Are food and drinks allowed?
Only water bottles are allowed; food and other drinks are not permitted for safety and health reasons.
Where can I park?
Weekend parking is free at the 1500 Parking Garage attached to the building; weekday parking is paid with some paid street parking nearby.