Glass Melting and Shaping with Flame with the Senior Glass Master

Participating in the Glass Melting and Shaping with Flame workshop in Istanbul offers a captivating hands-on experience with a Senior Glass Master. For $71.15 per person, this approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes activity provides an intimate, personalized setting, limited to just 6 participants. Guided by Gamze Haberal or her assistant, visitors learn flameworking techniques, melt Efetre glass rods at around 1200°C, and create their own glass pieces. The workshop’s small size ensures individual attention, making it suitable for all skill levels. Participants can personalize their creations by choosing shapes, styles, and colors, with an added option to purchase extra beads.

The location near Galata Tower adds charm and an inspiring atmosphere, complemented by high-quality materials and professional equipment like didymium glasses and heat blankets. The experience is rich in practical application, allowing guests to craft jewelry or decorative pieces that can be kept or gifted. The inclusive approach, with guidance in both Turkish and English, ensures everyone can succeed and enjoy the process.

Key Points

• Personalized, small-group experience with a maximum of 6 participants
• Learn and create with high-quality materials and professional tools
• Expert guidance from Gamze Haberal or her assistant
• Flexible customization of shapes, styles, and colors
• Includes coffee/tea and all fees, with an option for extra beads
• Location near Galata Tower enhances the creative atmosphere

The Location and Setting of the Glass Workshop in Istanbul

This Istanbul-based glass workshop is situated at Dega Cam Sanat Atölyesi on Camekan Sk., Beyolu, just a short walk from the iconic Galata Tower. The charming studio combines an inspiring ambiance with the historic feel of central Istanbul, making it an excellent spot for both the craft and sightseeing. Guests can enjoy a relaxed, cozy environment that complements the artistic process.

The studio’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to reach, and the small group size fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The setting is perfect for those who appreciate a local, less touristy experience while still being close to Istanbul’s main attractions.

What the Glass Melting and Shaping Workshop Includes

The $71.15 fee covers all fees and taxes, along with coffee or tea for participants to enjoy during the introduction. The professional guidance from Gamze Haberal or her assistant ensures everyone understands the flameworking process before they begin creating. All high-quality materials and professional equipment are provided, including didymium glasses for safety and heat blankets for cooling the finished pieces.

Participants receive their cooled glass art at the end of the session, which can be used to make jewelry or display pieces. For an additional fee, it is possible to make extra beads, giving guests a chance to expand their collections or craft multiple items.

How the Flameworking Technique Is Explained

The workshop begins with a coffee break, during which the artist explains the flameworking method, involving melting Efetre glass rods with a torch flame reaching around 1200°C. The demonstrations showcase how the glass melts and can be shaped into various forms, revealing the magic of transforming solid glass into liquid.

This theoretical introduction prepares participants for hands-on work, where they will choose their preferred shape, style, and colors from samples. With step-by-step guidance, guests learn how to manipulate the heated glass safely and effectively, guided by experienced professionals.

Creating Your Own Glass Artwork

After the demonstration, each participant puts on aprons and protective glasses and begins creating their unique glass piece. The support from the guide helps ensure successful shaping, whether making beads, mini sculptures, or jewelry components.

The process concludes with placing the finished piece into a heat blanket for cooling, which preserves the shape and quality of the glass. Once cooled, guests receive their custom glass artwork, ready to be kept as a memento or transformed into jewelry using auxiliary parts and hand tools.

Personalization and Extra Bead Options

Guests have the freedom to decide on the shape, style, and colors of their creations, making each piece truly personal. The option to make extra beads for an additional fee allows for more complex or multiple creations, perfect for creating bracelets, necklaces, or gifts.

This flexibility is appreciated by those who want a more comprehensive craft experience, with additional beads expanding their finished collection or offering more gift options.

The Expertise of Gamze Haberal and Her Assistant

The guides—including Gamze Haberal—are experienced artists who provide step-by-step instructions to ensure success for all skill levels. Their friendly, patient approach makes the process accessible and enjoyable, whether for complete beginners or those with some experience.

The reviews praise the personalized attention and guidance from the master, emphasizing how knowledgeable and kind the instructors are. Guests often mention the warm, cozy environment created by the hosts, which enhances the creative process.

The Atmosphere During the Workshop

The studio environment offers a familiar and cozy atmosphere, with warm tea and friendly faces. The location near Galata Tower adds a touch of history and inspiration, making the experience not just about the craft but also about enjoying Istanbul’s vibrant cultural vibe.

Many reviews highlight how passionate and sincere the owners are, making each session feel personal and welcoming. The artistic ambiance combined with the presence of high-quality materials makes the workshop both educational and inspiring.

The Final Creation and Its Uses

Guests leave with a unique piece of glass art—whether a bead, pendant, or small sculpture—that can be used in jewelry making or displayed as a decorative item. The option to turn beads into necklaces or earrings is a popular choice, allowing participants to take home wearable art or gifts.

The cooling process in the heat blanket ensures the quality and durability of each creation, making the finished work a lasting memory of the experience.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

This private tour/activity requires booking in advance, typically 17 days ahead on average. The experience operates on a free cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point at Dega Cam Sanat Atölyesi, easily accessible near public transportation. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and prepare for a creative, hands-on activity that involves working with hot glass.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This workshop is ideal for art lovers, craft enthusiasts, or anyone curious about glassmaking. It appeals to all skill levels, from complete beginners to those with some experience, thanks to the professional guidance. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for families, couples, or friends seeking a memorable activity in Istanbul.

The opportunity to create jewelry or decorative pieces makes this experience both fun and functional, perfect for gift-giving or souvenir hunting.

Glass Melting and Shaping with Flame in Istanbul: Crafting Creativity in a Historic Setting

The Glass Melting and Shaping workshop offers a hands-on introduction to flameworking in Istanbul, combining artistic skill with personalized attention. Guided by Gamze Haberal or her assistant, participants learn to meltdown Efetre glass rods at around 1200°C and shape beautiful jewelry pieces or small sculptures.

The small group size ensures individual support, making the process accessible regardless of experience. The location near Galata Tower adds a touch of Istanbul’s history to the creative atmosphere, making this not just a craft class but a cultural experience.

While the price of $71.15 covers all materials, guidance, and beverages, the opportunity to purchase extra beads provides a chance for more extensive projects. Guests leave with personalized glass artwork, ready to be worn or gifted, amid warm hospitality and expert instruction.

This workshop is a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable, creative activity that balances learning with fun in one of Istanbul’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes, the workshop is designed to guide participants of all skill levels, with step-by-step instructions from experienced guides.

How long does the experience last?
The session lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all fees and taxes, coffee or tea, materials, and guidance from the artist.

Can I make extra beads?
Yes, there is an option to make extra beads for an additional fee.

Where does the workshop take place?
It is held at Dega Cam Sanat Atölyesi on Camekan Sk., Beyolu, near Galata Tower.

What safety equipment is provided?
Guests are supplied with protective glasses and heat blankets to safely handle the hot glass.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate; specific age restrictions are not mentioned but are likely flexible given the small, casual setting.

What is the cancellation policy?
There is free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, this is a private tour/activity, with only your group participating.

Can I turn my finished glass piece into jewelry?
Absolutely, the glass pieces can be transformed into jewelry using auxiliary parts and hand tools provided after the workshop.