Flameworking Demos are live, narrated demonstrations of glassworking at a 5,000°F gas- and oxygen-powered torch. Demos take place throughout the day, in the Glass Innovation Center, and are included in the cost of admission. Allow 15 minutes per demonstration, the duration of special demos may vary. See today's schedule.

Expert flameworkers demonstrate this intricate art and talk you through the process. During each Demo, you’ll see the flameworker melt rods and tubes in a flame and then shape the softened glass into any variety of objects, from glass animals and beads to ornaments and sculptures.

The flameworking technique probably dates back to ancient times. It was certainly known in France and Venice in the 15th century, and it has been practiced ever since. Historically, the source of the flame was an oil or paraffin lamp. Today, flameworkers use torches fueled by gas and oxygen. Flameworking was the first glassworking technique demonstrated at the Museum, and it continues to be demonstrated here every day.

See Special Demos

Tiffany and Colored Glass
After seeing the stunning colors that Louis C. Tiffany incorporated into his mosaic pieces, you might be wondering: “How is colored glass made?” Our flameworking team will demonstrate how glass can take on different colors through the addition of different metal oxides. Watch what happens when our skilled glassmakers dip molten glass into black copper oxide and mix, by hand, the glass and powder. You’ll see the glass transform almost instantaneously as you look on.

Daily at 11:20 am through September 4. See Today's Schedule and look for the starred (*) Tiffany and Colored Glass shows on the Flameworking schedule.

The Curious Glass Eye
Watch with your own eyes as our talented flameworkers show you the process behind creating stunningly realistic looking glass eyes.

Daily at 2:20 pm through September 4. See Today's Schedule and look for the starred (*) The Curious Glass Eye shows on the Flameworking schedule.