Found a deal for the glassblowing sampler on Verlocal. You don't actually get to do any glassblowing, but they do walk you through some basic glassmaking. We made paper weights in the two hour class. They spend the first part of the class teaching how not to burn the crap out of yourself and scaring you with the possibility that you're probably going to burn the crap out of yourself. To say I was nervous would be an understatement considering I was sweating before I even picked the gathering rod up. Really, you're not left to your own devices here. One of the workers walks you through everything, standing by your side as you gather the glass and stopping you from touching rod with your right hand. You don't realize how tricky playing with hot glass is until you're standing in front of the blazing hot glory hole trying not to burn all the hair off your arm. I was thankful for the guys working with us. I'm apparently completely useless in making things with molten glass, but Ken helped me make my paperweight and not burn myself. Really enjoyed this class and my quick brush with glass working. I would definitely try another class read more

After several years, I finally got a response last week, and provided all the requested information for a refund, but have heard nothing from the company, or their representatives since then. I'll be more than happy to take down these negative reviews once the folks at Diablo Glass address their shortcomings and poor customer service, and issue a full refund. Until that occurs, do not trust, or do business with this company when they reopen, as they state they want to do. read more

Something got me interested in glass blowing. I know myself, and I knew I probably wouldn't have heaps of fun... but it is something I wanted to experience for myself. After reading the reviews, I decided to go here. I took the glassblowing sampler, which serves as an introduction to the art. My two instructors were Matt and Pat. The first thing we did was go through the shop, and see what kinds of things they do. There were no visible sales tactics involved, more like a "this is what we do". Then we got to the room where the melted glass actually lives... now folks... they tell you to bring a bottle of water, bring one. Molten glass is incredibly hot, and therefore the room is too. They go over what we will be making, and how we will be making it, as well as things that could go wrong. In this glass we make paperweights. Then we go over safety and practice three times to make sure we got everything down. Yes, burns do happen, but they do everything they can to minimize the risk. When it is your turn, one of the instructors will be working with you one on one to guide you through the process, and ensure you don't get a burn from glass whose temperate well exceeds 1,000 degrees. However, this is where this place lost some stars. When it was my turn, Pat was the person working with me. While I appreciate his help, he did many things that were extra, and unrelated to safety, such as spinning the rod. While minor, and while I was the one manipulating the glass, I still felt it took away from the experience. It was more like me assisting him than him assisting me. You don't get the opportunity to "blow" into the glass in this class, but it was demonstrated to us at the end. Some more notes: Instructors were fairly chill, but no-nonsense dudes. When you have molten glass, joking around is very dangerous. The owner has a great sense of humor! And finally, molten glass is very viscous. It is not as easy to manipulate as it looks. In conclusion: if I had enjoyed glass blowing, I would return here. But, alas, I found it was not for me. Definitely worth it for the experience though! read more

Diablo Glass School - "Glory Hole" for reheating - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I have been coming to Diablo Glass School for over a year and have had such wonderful experiences with the staff and teachers. The workshops are a great way to get started and try something new. I started off taking workshops and then I became a regular renter. Annie in the office is amazing to work with and the other artists in the studio are always happy to give pointers and a helping hand. I had to move away for school but I cannot praise Diablo enough. read more

See all

Head out to Mission Hill for one of the hottest experiences in Boston! No really, because of all the furnaces they use to blow the glass, even in the dead of winter its tank top season inside Diablo. Diablo is unique because its one of the only public access glass studios in the area, which means its open to people like you and me for classes! I did not know this until I headed out there, but apparently that is very rare! To take classes, you can either head right to Diablo's website to sign-up or you can check for discount classes through MassArt and local adult education programs. I have not actually made it to one of their classes YET, but they hold monthly wine tasting (sometimes also singles gatherings) where some of the experts show you how fancy stem wear goes from little beads of glass to the fancy glasses you drink from! The event are only $35 and lets just say, they keep the wine flowing to help cool you down! Check out the website for event listing http://www.diabloglassschool.com/events.htm read more

Diablo Glass School - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Friends and I took a 4-hour private lesson in beadmaking a couple of weeks ago. It was so much fun! We had a great teacher named Peter who taught us some basic lampwork techniques. We learned how to turn on the torch, how to make glass stringer, and wrap hot glass around the mandrel, then how to decorate the bead we made with the stringer we created. We also learned how to make cylinder beads! I made about 10 or 12 beads. Needless to say, the kiln was packed full with beads by the end of the session! I went back the next day to pick up my beads. I was bummed that a bumpy bead I made broke in the kiln - it was so perfect when I placed it inside! Now that we took a lesson, we can go back anytime, and use the torch for $15/hr + supplies. Not bad! I made a freeform beaded bracelet with some of the lampwork beads I made.. Now, I'll have to go back to make more beads. I also hope to take more classes! :D read more

Diablo Glass School - Just made a glass bead! - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

Bucket List If you are in Boston or visiting Boston and have wanted to learn about glass blowing, this is a great experience and the instructor Ms. Ellen was amazingly patient! Ms. Ellen has 10 years of experience and has a very nice way of teaching a "novice". The experience was safe and comfortable and the time flew so I would recommend at least 2hours. Ms. Ellen was talking/listening/watching every step of the way which is critically important considering we were working with mouton glass. You will learn basic techniques that may inspire you to continue your glass education. It is very hot (2200°) so bring water . My experience lasted approx. 2.5hours and worth every second and penny! I am looking forward to receiving my glass (shipping glass piece included in class price). Thank you Ellen!!!! read more

We took a class in the flame shop. I liked our instructors (there were three per class of ten people), and there's nothing about glasswork that doesn't make me feel incredibly badass. Everything about it heightens your senses. It's dangerous work so you have to pay attention, which makes all of your other stresses fall away (nothing like the thousands-of-degrees heat of a mixed-gas torch to put things into perspective). The administration is really caring; we had a minor problem that could have become a really big issue in the wrong hands, but they came through for us immediately with generosity and ingenuity. Diablo is a large, clean, nicely-appointed school. I'm looking forward to going back for more learning opportunities. Keep in mind that you should bring sunglasses, water, and a hair tie/cover - as well as closed-toe shoes and cotton clothing. This is a little safety message from the safety fairies. read more

Such a fun time. Diablo Glass School is just that....a school. They don't sell outside of the school, they aren't manufacturers. If you're looking for an intense first time experience, this is the place to be. Sean (the owner) is an absolute trip. It was almost difficult for me (the most sarcastic person you'll ever meet) to keep up with him. All in good fun, however, as you can clearly see how dedicated he is to his staff, the art, and making sure that we all left with the true experience. I love that man. We did the paperweight class (about 2 hours) and learned all about the hot shop, safety (trust me....pay attention) and then were able to complete the entire piece (with careful supervision). I couldn't believe how much they allowed us to do (but never felt unsafe....Angie kept a close eye on us! My paperweight is currently "cooling" in a 900 degree oven. I can't wait to see it in a couple days! This was a bucket list item that I'm glad I can cross off my list. I'm so glad that I did it at Diablo! read more

See all

A great experience. I would recommend going with a friend that has the same interest for working with glass. There is some parking on the street and its a red color building. Only one entrance.I went with a friend of mine and scheduled a flower glass blowing class. NOTE: In this class there is no actual blowing of the glass. Is more of learning how to work with in a sense "liquid" glass. And don't bring sunglasses. They give you safety glasses. Instructor and two very well versed students ( guessing on age and behavior) but don't be fooled they are fully knowledgable about this art. The class was broken into 3 groups and w rotated for all the parts. Safety was a number one but we still had fun and joked as we were learning. It's funny what how you body reacts as you work with metal and glass that can both burn but yet become a beautiful piece. Best advice relax and don't over analyze-- sorry to all the left handed people but the shop is set up for right handed people. So kind of mental adjusting but there are advantages to being a lefty as well. And what you make has to stay at the studio and to be picked up. Oh and bring water!! read more

Diablo Glass School - Flower class -- you make 3 each. - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

We had an absolute blast. We had a Yelp deal for a 2 hour class. First, we planned very last minute, but they were able to get us in, no problem. And, we had our own class. I was glad for that, because if it were crowded in there, I might have been less comfortable. Our instructor was Evan and he was great. He made sure we all got to participate fully and made sure we were safe all along. He also guided us to make sure our paperweights turned out well and then finished with a cool exhibition of his skill. One thing to know...you don't actually "blow" the glass. This was a bonus for me, but others should be aware. We did dip/pull/spin/cut/color/design. It was super fun and I felt like I was in colonial Williamsburg or something. It was fun to feel like an artist in just one class. My spouse loved it, too, and can't wait to go again. It was a very unique experience and one that is highly recommended. read more

If you're ever trying to find a hobby, give Diablo a shot! I'm here finishing up Glass Blowing 1; and I must say that I am having a blast! I drive an hr to get to class which is well worth it. You're definitely gonna sweat; but the outcome can be so profound. I definitely feel proud of my work tho it may not be a true masterpiece like a professional. Having a hobby at Diablo is well worth looking into. Everyone there is warm and welcoming. The instructor I have is good. Justin is very talented and has lots of patience in teaching the public. read more

My friends and I had the most awesome experience this past Saturday. We make lovely glass bowls. Alex is an awesome instructor! He was patient, knowledgeable and helped make the experience so much fun! I highly recommend! read more

Wow, all I can say is that I had no idea that I'd be doing something so outrageously cool with my Friday night. I went for the "hot shop" version of their Glass Friday class, and it was beyond belief excellent. Sure, it's easy to be impressed when you're dipping a pipe into a 2200 degree F kiln and pulling it back out with molten glass that drips like honey, but... it's more than that. The vibe at Diablo is awesome: convivial and supportive atmosphere; good music; and our instructor Krista was tops. Great, great experience, and a fantastic value for the price too. Two thumbs way, way up! read more

Diablo Glass School - Artists at Work, at Diablo - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

See all

My boyfriend booked a big private session with friends as a surprise birthday trip. We did the demo and pendant making class which was about 2-ish hours. It was hard keeping track of time as we just had so much fun. I believe each person was about 20 or 30 dollars and we walked out with multiple pendants each. Well...the next day after they had been fired we walked out with them... Super fun, great staff, awesome if you can get 10 people together to have a private event. read more

Just got back from a holiday fused glass ornament class here, which ran from 10 AM to 2 PM. So much fun! The teachers were really easy going and helpful, willing to cut out glass circles or offer their opinion on whether something was going to work. There were about 10 of us and it was just the right size. The also had glass blowing classes going on, which were awesome to watch on the way out. I totally want to take a class. The prices for the classes are very reasonable, also, considering how many ornaments we made today :) Well worth a trip down the Orange Line. read more

We attended a class for two with glassblower Pat today and he was fantastic! First he showed us how to make our own glass objects and then he amazed us by creating the most beautiful glass sculpture. He took great care to make sure we learned all the steps and followed them exactly. He was very patient and explained everything well. We enjoyed our lesson and making the beautiful glass objects from our choice of colors and want to thank Pat for a wonderful experience! He did an excellent job and we highly recommend. read more

I have been diablos twice. My first time was using a groupon for a glass blowing and wine social. It was fun, we got to make 2 paper weights each and then got to watch the instructor make an elaborate vase while sipping on wine. When picking up our final pieces we came to realize that one of my paper weights had shattered in the oven/keln while cooling off :( I was glad I had made two, otherwise I wouldn't have had anything to show for it.. The owner was very nice about it, he explained everything about why it would happen, and gave me a sample of a paper weight that had been made in my class by the instructor. My second time there, since I fell in love and had to go back, was using another groupon-like deal where it was taking glassblowing 101, where you actually get to blow glass! The class was a two all day events (sat & sun) and it was packed with students. But diablos is good about having enough teachers around. We got to make paper weights, a glass sculpture, two different ornaments and finally a vase. It was definitely a lot of fun, and felt very rewarding. I wish I could've taken the glassblowing 202 but it was just too expensive for me at the time. Perhaps I will at a later time. Until then i'll dream about glass blowing.. read more

They offer a short 3 hr intro workshop on the last friday of the month. You get the option of signing up the Hot Shop (which is where you can practice blowing hot glass), the Flame Shop (where you use a torch to make glass beads) or the Flat Shop (where you can make glass plates). And afterwards you get to stay for some wine and cheese. The cost is between $5 - 95 per class. Took the Flame Shop and loved it. Got to make several beads and get a good wellrounded intro to the process. The instructors were very helpful - both men and women. And we has lots of time to do real hands on practice. Will go back again and take the Flat shop next -- and then signup for the Flame class. read more

I have been going to Diablo for a few years to fuse glass and lampwork glass beads. They are super! Whats nice about them is that they are open right now and usually not a waiting list to take a class. And when you know how to use glass you can rent space to fuse, lampwork and blow glass. If you have any interest in glass and want to learn how to do anything with glass-- they will show you how. The Museum of Fine Arts sends its students to Diablo. One great instructor is Sarah and she is very patient and very kind. Shes like the best teacher to have if you are starting out. Its a very small place and usually classes are no more than 5 people or so. Right off Roxbury Crossing on the Orange Line, bus 66 drops you off right at Roxbury Crossing and its a five minute walk. Glass is such a cool medium to work with and its complicated but there is no other art medium like it. read more

We contacted Diablo glass either a week or a week and a half before our wedding (if my memory serves me--basically it was way too close to the big day) to collaborate with them on a bell jar as a guest book. We are from out of town so when we arrived at Diablo to pick up the glass plate that would become the bell jar and to show Doris the type of murrine glass we had purchased for the guests to glue on, she didn't know we were coming because I accidentally sent the email I meant for her back to myself somehow. She handled it all incredibly well and gave us a tour of the glass studio while we waited for the glass we needed to be cut. If I lived in Boston, I would be there all the time. On our wedding day, guests glued murrine pieces to the glass in unique patterns and shapes and we send it back to Diablo to be blown into a bell jar. They did two tests before the blew our actual piece to make sure they got it right (you only get one shot). Doris kept me updated every step of the way. They shipped it out to us in Chicago in what must be the mother or all styrofoam boxes--they carved out the styrofoam so the bell jar fit just right--and it arrived quickly and, most importantly, in one piece! After the wedding the process took about 5 weeks. This was such a special part of our wedding and I'm so glad we worked with Diablo to make it happen. (See pic.) read more

Diablo Glass School - Commissioned wedding guestbook alternative. - Specialty Schools Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This place is awesome. I went for valentines day with my boyfriend and we had so much fun. We did a private 2 hour lesson for glass blowing. We made 2 paper weights each, one of which was a heart. How fitting for valentines day! :) The experience was awesome and a million times better than we ever expected! Our instructor was Matt and he was exceptional. He really knew his stuff and never once made us feel weird for being newbies! We cannot wait to go back again. I really want to try making some beads/pendants! We also cannot wait to receive our paper weights in the mail!! read more

My wife and I took a glass art workshop at Diablo, making a paperweight and a thick coaster with pigment swirls and bubbles inside. It was the most fun we've had in a while. Sarah is such a great teacher--inspirational, talented, positive. We love our glass pieces. Highly recommended for all lovers of glass art. read more

My husband and I attended a private glass blowing class and glass working class, presented as a wedding gift from one of our friends. It was a thrilling experience and Sean and the team were amazing in guiding us through, helping us out and their enthusiasm and love for glass was very infectious. We made two paper weights and a glass pumpkin. We highly recommend this as an experience and we were definitely considering taking it up as a hobby sometime in the future. read more

Hey this place is awesome. Do you want to see glass being blown? Even better, do you want to take a class and learn to blow yourself? Then this is the place for you. What an amzing facility. They offer studio rental and teach classes in both glass and metal working. read more

Wonderful experience! My husband agreed that it was a great idea for date night. Seth was knowledgeable, patient, very helpful. He placed a lot of attention on safety and guided us through the entire process in great detail. I left with an interest in learning more. Hopefully we will be able to visit the school again soon. Highly recommended! read more

I came here for an intro glass blowing class, where we made a paperweight. What an unique experience! The instructors are passionate, funny and professional glassblowers that have been doing this for a while. They talked us through the history, and taught us the fundamentals. I was feeling quite nervous and intimated-- imagine a 2000 degree furnace just a couple of feet in front of you. Despite feeling a little scared, the instructors were present the entire time, guiding us through the many steps. My paperweight turned out great. I'd love to go back for another class. I also learned that they offer a monthly wine and cheese night. Sounds super fun! read more

They were wonderful. I took my boyfriend (now my husband) here for a private lesson for his birthday. It was an amazing experience that we will always remember. The staff is great and make you feel super comfortable. We love the paper weights that we made. read more

I took a glass blowing glass through the Boston Center for Adult Education, and it was awesome. I had never worked with class before but the instructors were friendly and fun. There is nothing like walking from the orange line T-stop to the Studio in the dead of winter, and then warm up in front of a giant furnace (Glory Hole). We learned how to make glasses, plates, and to work with color. The instructors were all young and friendly, and many also studied at the Massachusetts College or Art. read more

Really had a GREAT time! I would recommend it for a fun afternoon doing something different.

Amazing experience! My girlfriend and I attended a 3 hour flame working class and it was great. Toby was a fantastic instructor and Sean and the others at the school are engaging, knowledgeable and do everything to ensure students enjoy the class. We'll be visiting again. read more

So I decided for my moms birthday I would try something different and take her glassblowing. It was an amazing experience and my mother enjoyed herself. The instructor Sean was hilarious and so full of life. My only problem with them, which made me give them four stars is their front desk staff was disorganized. I paid for two people and the person who took my card over the phone, put both payments under my name and when we arrived there was so much confusion. They were saying my mother didn't pay for her space. I had to literally break it down into specific details to get them to understand. Then today 5/26 I called to see if our pieces were ready for pick up and once again they brought up payment and how my mom didn't pay when there was two payments under my name. I loved the class I took with my mom but I would not recommend going there and paying for more then one person, they can't comprehend that situation. If you're paying individually, please go! :D read more

Perhaps you may think one of the following: "Boring." "I won't get to do anything." "Why would I do this?" "I already have things made of glass. Why would I want more?" And, this may be why you haven't tried this. Fun for all ages, fun for people who break glasses all the time, fun for people who meticulously polish their prized wine goblet. The owner, Sean, who led our event, cares about every detail of his business through a locale-appropriate sense of humor, customer focused approach, and thoughtful attention to safety. We selected a two hour private event class at Diablo as part of a family event flanked by an afternoon together and a nice dinner, with members of all ages, backgrounds, and tastes. Nothing brings people together like raging furnaces, torches, "glory holes," molten glass, and a level of hands-on that is beyond what may be expected, even for a private event. Note, this is not an appropriate environment for young children, which they will tell you; it's a full blown (please note poor humor) production workshop. Participants had their choice of precision work (marbles, flowers, and the like) or making a paperweight with choice of swirly colors. The class was about half/half demonstration and hands-on, which was the absolute right mix, given that you're standing a few inches from a several-thousand degree furnace (don't be scared: someone is there to stop you from the stupid things you've done while working near your oven). There are several "wow" moments that I won't spoil that made the event particularly memorable. Highly recommended. read more

Wow. I was so amazed with this place. L bought me a 2 hour private glassblowing lesson for Valentine's Day. He bought it off of Daily Candy. I wasn't sure what to expect but was excited to try something new. Matt was our instructor and he was excellent. Very patient and explained everything. He also made sure I didn't burn myself which was great since I was almost sure that I would with my track record. We both got to make paperweights which we picked up two days later and they look amazing! It's great to have something in our home that we can say "oh we made that" when people come by. After we made our own glass, Matt brought out a cheese and cracker platter and wine which we got to enjoy while he demonstrated some much more sophisticated glass blowing and made a gorgeous bowl. We were so blown away at his talent. We enjoyed our experience so much and would love to take another class there. I highly recommend going here for a class. read more

Took glassblowing intro class - make a paperweight and it was great. The instructor was extremely helpful and way they ran the class was awesome. It is worth the time and the cost. read more

I went last weekend with my wife to a stained glass 4 hour class and it was a good experience. I honestly had no idea what the process was or what we were going to make but the instructors helped us through it one step at a time. Although I had never done it before, I ended up with a pretty unique stained glass decoration I'll be hanging on my Christmas tree, and my wife (with more experience) made a very nice flower design. It was a little expensive and parking wasn't the best but overall a great experience. read more

I bought the Yelp deal for a private glass lesson for three. It was an amazing experience and made me want to go back to learn more! I can't believe how hands-on they let us get, and the teacher (Kayla) was fantastic! She was patient, fun, and informative. We had a great time and will be on the lookout for more glass classes now for sure. read more

I had purchased a Yelp deal back in June and brought two people with me. We took a 2 hour introductory course and learned a TON! The school was not at all what I had expected. It's on a back road in Boston, and there's on-street parking (phew!). The school is not very big, but it's big enough, and has different rooms for different types of glass work. There's a lot to working with glass, and we were exposed to all of it during our visit. Our instructor, Aron, gave us impeccable instruction in the basics and trusted us to carry out what we had learned. We "gathered" glass from the oven, selected colors to add, reheated, twirled, pulled, twisted, snipped and poked the hot glass on a rod and in the end, each of us had created our own paperweight! The class was fascinating, Aron was wonderful, and we can't wait to get our art back next week! I'm looking forward to taking another class there soon. read more

We went up for a flower making class for 4 hours on a Saturday afternoon. All I can say is we are going back for more classes. Kayla was our instructor and she was so patient and explained everything clearly. She made sure we were able to be creative and safe all at the same time. Can't wait to see our works of art. Working with hot glass was a beautiful thing!!!! read more

Trying out glass blowing has been an item on the bucket list since I can remember. So, my wife bought us a couples lesson, which included a 2 hour private lesson in which we each got to make a piece of our own, and was followed by an amazing demonstration of the pros making an awesome bowl while we were treated to wine and cheese. It lived up to every expectation I could possibly have dreamed up. If you are even a little interested in this, you should check it out. This place rocks. read more