YAAR  GLASS                                                   YVONNE YAAR

Do you do demonstrations- flameworking in stores, shows or private settings?

Yes.  I usually need 4-6 weeks notice minimum, but I am happy to do this free of charge.  As long as the store is selling my art or allows me to sell my art.  I am happy to promote you- it's a win win situation.  If the organization is not promoting/selling my art- I do charge an hourly rate that is reasonable- contact me privately for more information.

Do you teach flameworking or fusing? 

Yes.  I teach privately but also teach from various locations- for instance Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences. Classes are all inclusive- meaning they include all the equipment needed, glass used, torch time, safety googles, plus annealing. Annealing means that I will be putting your finished glass pieces in a kiln and you will be picking them up at a later date. The next day is fine- I put that in bold so you won't be disappointed about not taking it home the same day you make them. Annealing is important - thermal shock is less likely to happen and it promotes strength & longevity in your piece.  The work can also be mailed, there is a $7 fee for that.

You will need to dress in cotton clothing and it should be clothing that you don't care about. Sometimes the glass pops and little bits may land on your clothing and burn it. Long sleeves are a good idea. Dressing in layers is also a good idea. The studio tends to be cool, but the torch and kiln heat things up quickly. Long hair should be tied back.

I am very generous with glass selection- I don't want to inhibit your creativity, but at the same time, certain glasses have chemical reactions with other glasses and I try to lead you away from things that will end up turning smoky, snooty grey and yucky! One thing I am stingy on sharing- I give out only some purples & no pink- these colors are very difficult to work with for the beginner and they cost 10+times more than most colors (the people who manufacture it ALSO have a hard time making it- hence their losses are included in the cost!) I have A LOT of glass. So no worries, still more colors to choose from then you'll be able to use in one class!

REMEMBER- This is fun! I've learned that some people's expectations aren't realistic and they are too hard on themselves! Keep fun in mind and relax and you will make something with which you will be proud! Most people walk away with at least 4 or 5 beads that they like- depending on which class they took. I try to have a 5 min break for every hour- to stretch, eat carrots ( I usually have a simple munchie available) and take bathroom breaks. I recommend the 2 or 3 hour class. The one hour is a tease! Glass is an expensive art form and I try to accommodate those with smaller budgets by offering the one hour class and also by offering that people team up. I frequently will teach the longer class with two students sharing the time, the torch and the expense!

Try to practice several days before the class by spinning pencils in your fingers- practice with both hands.   When you make beads in front of a torch, you hold a mandrel parallel to the work bench and the glass gets put on the mandrel (a stainless steel wire simliar in thickness to a coat hanger).  While the glass falls onto the mandrel, you slowly spin it with your fingers.  As you add more glass, you will be spinning the mandrels and the glass rods in the torch to keep them warm and to prevent thermal shock.   It helps to practice a little- do it with both hands.
Please contact me to set up a lesson or to ask further questions.  

How much is a flameworking & fusing class?

Most people take the 3 hour option for $100.  I supply all that is needed, this includes glass and special tools.  I also include kiln annealing.  Fusing varies depending on the project.  Please contact me for all the details.

Do you take special orders/ commissions?

Yes.  Please realize that commissions take time and give me time if you are gifting the item.  4-8 weeks is usual.  

 How long for a special order?

Typically 4-8 weeks, earrings probably only 2-4, but large wall pieces, 8-10.  So size matters :)

What carrier to you use to ship?

USPS- United States Postal Service.  I always pack well & I find them very reliable. 

Once an item has been shipped- how long before I receive it? This depends on your location, but typically 3-7 days.