Sorry for the last minute submissions everyone, but I was just able to list 8 new jewelry making events.  These are all going to be run by Jari, the owner of Boca Loca Beads, a great funky little bead store at Fountain Square.  Here's some info about the classes, all of which are active in the system now, and running at multiple times (check SPA events in the system for exact times):

Beginning stringing class: This class will open up the possibilities of making your own jewelry. Learn about the tools, stringing materials, and findings. Each student will make two bracelets, one single stranded and the other a double woven more complex, both bracelets are yours to wear home. High quality materials included.

Wire bending class: This class is perfect for anyone inspired to create their own jewelry. Whether you want to make earrings or create a pendant out of a beautiful bead, this is your class. You will also learn how to make your own findings such as earwires and headpins out of wire. We teach the old school of self-sufficiency, "have wire and pliers, will travel". Jari will pass on all her knowledge of her wire bending beginnings she learned from the streets of Peru. Come, learn and create!

Mini Lampworking Class:

This is really amazing; Jari has a 10 person lampwork studio in her store.  You'll be transported there for an afternoon of learning to actually make fabulous glass beads!  Here's the description:

A perfect introduction to the magical world of lampworking, or glass bead making, this class gives you a taste of a mesmerizing art form. You will get an overview of safety precautions, a brief talk on the nature of glass, a description of tools and some important torch time to feel the magic. You will make at least 5 beads, and probably many more. Don\'t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore glass as it was meant to be...flowing!

I know these classes seem a bit expensive than some of our other classes; however, Jari has let me know that all her events use high quality materials such as silver wire, and Swavorski crystals or high quality glass beads.  And this is a great chance to learn some lampwork basics without the huge initial investment in materials.  So I hope you all enjoy these classes. :)

Just to ask before the question comes up...

You said this would be done at her store, so how far is it from the con, and does everyone have to make their own way there?

You also mentioned that these classes cost a bit more than usual. How much are they?

With events like this, I might get my daughters to start coming soon.

In the registration system I found the following prices:

Stringing and Bending: $36.00
These may include tools, but do involve 1 or 2 pieces of jewelry.

Lampwork: $52.00
You get to make 5 glass beads. 

Are all of the classes going to be at her shop, or just the lampworking one?

ChelleDG:

Are all of the classes going to be at her shop, or just the lampworking one?

Just the lampworking class is at her site because the lampwork studio is nontransportable.  Her other jewelry classes will be on site, in the Westin in the SPA area.

Random question regarding the lampworking class.  Will it be demonstrated how to do glass work personally at home? (ie. not needing an expensive studio)  I'd love to learn how to craft glass but not have to spend hundreds/thousands of dollars if I want to do it when I get home. 

rebekkahm:

Random question regarding the lampworking class.  Will it be demonstrated how to do glass work personally at home? (ie. not needing an expensive studio)  I'd love to learn how to craft glass but not have to spend hundreds/thousands of dollars if I want to do it when I get home. 

Sorry for the late response!   I have a limited understanding of the tools needed for lampworking at home; in this class you will be taught techniques you can use at home, but you would still need some expensive equipment, I think a torch and possibly a kiln sort of thing (to keep the glass from cooling too quickly and breaking, is my understanding.)  I have a friend who has a lampworking studio set up at her house, but I think it cost her over 1K to do so.

That said, if you are local, you can rent time from Boca Loca Beads, and if you aren't local, check in your local area for art glass studios that may have rental facilities as well.