Vitrum Studios

I recently started a transition to working with glass as another form of jewelry making, and my knowledge has been greatly enhanced by going to Vitrum Studios. I learned about Vitrum through Maryland Hall for the Arts in Annapolis, and the classes offered are challenging and exciting.

As a novice, I am treated as welcomingly as the many experienced artists. I never feel like a novice, because Kevin and Judy explain everything so well, that I get a full understanding of the approach, tools and methods for each particular style being taught.

The classes are so enjoyable - and the teachers put in a lot of time over and above the class time to make sure that what we produce comes out really nicely - including cold working and firing that can't be finished during class.

Vitrum offers great sales on their glass materials throughout the year, and they do a wonderful job of communicating with their customers. Sign-up fast for the classes when they are posted by email - they fill-up really quickly.

Amazing Glass Studio!!

Vitrum's class with Judy & Kevin was the best I have ever taken. The preparation and planning they put into the class was apparent. The class was educational, fun and productive. Judy and Kevin are glass experts that could answer all of our "what if" inquires.

The glass selection & tools for sale are also topnotch. Vitrum has a wide selection including speciality glass that I haven't seen before. Well worth the visit!

There simply is no better warm glass studio in the mid-Atlantic region for learning kiln formed glass techniques. Owners/artists Judith Conway and Kevin O'Toole invest huge amounts of personal attention, time and energy in developing unique class offerings that exploit the quality Bullseye glass they stock.

The knowledgeable staff, glass artists themselves, are supportive and eager to assist students as they learn new techniques and explore new artistic territory. Classes range from introductory kiln forming to advanced courses on specialty techniques presented by internationally recognized artists. Beginner classes give students an excellent grounding in the science of glass and the rudiments needed to produce quality work. This kind of attention to detail is what sets Vitrum classes apart from others.

Class sizes are small enough to afford plenty of individual interaction with instructors. Staff can and does provide advice regarding the level of experience a student needs to be able to fully enjoy the more advanced classes; this is one of the special touches that factor into a truly valuable class experience where all learners are able to progress at a similar pace.

Class schedules are offered on a semester system; be sure to sign up for the constant-contact-based newsletter for notices of classes, special events and sales.

I have taken classes from Kevin, Judy and their talented staff at Vitrum for over seven years. Their classes are both accessible and understandable to anyone, as well as an introduction to high caliber, gallery-quality art.

First, they give tremendous thought to step-by-step processes needed to end up with a well executed technique, while encouraging each student's own artistic style. Their studio has the top and "latest" materials, equipment so you are exposed to what are the best fused glass tools to use. They also share so many tips and "lessons learned" as we go along, that you could never pick up through trial and error.
I started working with fused glass a year or two before I sent to their studio - I've taken strip cut, inclusions, powder work and many others there.

They are patient, funny and quite inspirational. I treat myself to classes there as often as I can. Every time I go, I'm amazed at how far people come to go to their classes - and lucky me, I can drive there easily. Well worth the cost of any of their classes.

I just took my first class at Vitrum Studios this past weekend. I was so impressed! The classroom space is laid out very thoughtfully. Each student has plenty of work space. The front of the classroom includes a whiteboard and central area for reviewing things together. Our instructor was knowledgeable and very clear. She made sure to give us a foundation for really understanding the rules of warm glass. During the introduction class we did four full projects. There was enough flexibility in each project for everyone to be creative and make something pleasing.

The shop (right next to the classroom space) appears well stocked and organized. Everyone is very supportive and happy to help.

I look forward to taking more classes here in the future.

I started taking classes here earlier this year. I'm a beginner at glass and have learned so much. Everyone there is so helpful and good with people of all levels. Ursula's two intro classes are a must- she has the patience of a saint and a great sense of humor. These are world class artists helping everyone to enjoy the beauty of glass and to learn! I dont think you can get that anywhere else. I am becoming addicted and so glad that Judy, Kevin and team are there to guide me!