2026: 02/10 Freeze Casting, with Wesley Wong

February 10, 2026, 9am-4pm.

Skill Level: Open to All Levels

Explore a fascinating fusion of glass techniques in this hands-on workshop where you'll learn the art of freeze casting—a process that bridges the gap between Freeze & Fuse and traditional pâte de verre, while opening new doors for creativity and detail.

Unlike traditional pâte de verre, which uses a one-time plaster mold to create textured, porous surfaces, freeze casting involves packing fine glass powders into silicone or plastic molds, freezing them, and then firing them in a kiln. The result? Crisp, vibrant, and highly detailed glass forms with smooth, glossy surfaces—perfect for incorporating into mosaics, jewelry, or larger fused glass projects.

You’ll work with a variety of molds to create intricate flowers, butterflies, skulls, and whimsical creatures. Larger forms are constructed using fiber material, which acts as a temporary support that burns out in the kiln, leaving behind lightweight, hollow pieces. You'll also have the chance to play with color layering, design accents, and even glow-in-the-dark pigments—ideal for making glowing sugar skulls and other eye-catching effects.

Whether you’re drawn to small, delicate details or bold, sculptural forms, freeze casting offers a unique and rewarding way to explore glass in a whole new way. You're welcome to bring your own candy or fondant molds to personalize your creations and expand your design options.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Wesley R. Wong is an award-winning glass artist based in San Jose, California, renowned for his vibrant and intricate designs in stained glass, fused glass, and mosaics. His journey with glass art began in 1981, evolving from stained glass to include mosaics and fused glass techniques. After retiring from a career in software engineering in 2014, Wesley dedicated himself fully to his passion for glass art. His work, characterized by bright colors and complex patterns, has been exhibited in numerous juried shows across the United States. A committed educator, Wesley has taught workshops nationally and internationally for over a decade.

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