A Beautiful World Deserves Beautiful Art
Collection
Original Glass Art
Workshops
Learn Glass Art
with Debbie
Intro to Glass Fusing
No experience needed. You'll create your own fused glass piece to take home.
Dichroic Jewelry Workshop
Learn to cut, layer, and fuse dichroic glass into wearable pendants and earrings.
Advanced Landscape Panel
For students who've completed Intro. Create a detailed landscape panel with layered birch trees.
Upcoming
See Debbie's Work in Person
- Glenview Art Fair June 14–15, 2026 Glenview, IL
- Ravinia Festival Art Show July 4–6, 2026 Highland Park, IL
- Geneva Arts Fair July 19–20, 2026 Geneva, IL
The Artist
About Debbie
As a child, I remember seeing glass artists making glass animals right before my eyes. They used a flaming torch to make their designs. My glass animal collection still sits on my dresser!
My journey in glass is somewhat different. As a fused glass artist, my glass is formed in the kiln at very high temperatures. As I design my glass art, my partner is the kiln -- often with results that are unexpected, which is why each of my pieces is unique. I am always excited to open the kiln and see the finished glass art.
Today I create one-of-a-kind fused glass panels, dichroic jewelry, and wearable art from my studio in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. I also teach classes for beginners and experienced students -- because sharing the magic of glass is just as rewarding as making it.
Common Questions
FAQ
What is fused glass?
Fused glass, also called kiln-formed glass, is made by layering compatible glass and melting it together at very high temperatures in a kiln. There are many steps -- first you make your design using sheet glass, powdered glass, dichroic glass, glass dots, or glass paints. Once you're happy with the look, it goes into the kiln. The three most important steps are a bubble squeeze to reduce air pockets, bringing the glass to a liquid state so the layers melt together, and annealing to reduce stress as the glass becomes solid again. Forming the glass into its final shape -- like a bowl or panel -- is another firing called slumping.
What is dichroic glass?
Dichroic (pronounced dye-crow-ik) glass has a metal coating that gives it a reflected color and a refracted color -- which is why it looks different depending on how you hold it. It's the sparkly glass, and sometimes has fun texture. Other types include iridescent glass, which has an oxidized coating, and luminescent glass, which is similar but needs to be used in a totally different manner.
Are your pieces one of a kind?
Yes. Each piece is fused glass art -- I set the design and the kiln heats the flowing glass. It's always fun to open the kiln and see what happened! Even if I make a similar design twice, the kiln creates variations that make every piece unique.
Can I order a custom piece or different size?
Absolutely. If you see something you love but want a different size or color palette, just reach out. It won't be exactly the same -- because of how fused glass works, each piece comes out a little different -- but I'll work with you to create something you'll love.
Do I need experience to take a class?
No experience needed. All classes are beginner-friendly, and I guide you step by step -- from cutting and layering the glass to understanding how different pieces interact in the kiln. Class sizes are limited to 8 students so everyone gets personal attention.
Can you host a private group class?
Yes! I can host your group at my studio in Buffalo Grove, or I can come to you. Private classes are perfect for birthday parties, girls' nights, team events, or any group that wants a creative, hands-on experience.
How much is shipping?
Jewelry ships free. Small artwork is $15 (you can group up to 3 pieces for the same cost). Large artwork is $30. No handling fees. If you're local, you're welcome to pick up your art at a pre-arranged time in Buffalo Grove, Illinois.