Julie 1: Two Torsos in Soft and Boro Glass
Runtime Soft glass 23 minutes
Runtime Borosilicate 26 minutes
We are pleased to present Julie Anne Denton, founder of Zurich Glass School, in these focused E-demos exploring figurative torso construction in both soft glass and borosilicate.
This E demo is designed for beginner to intermediate lampworkers interested in developing sculptural confidence, proportion, and material sensitivity when working with the human form. The lesson supports students working across both soft and borosilicate glass, highlighting how the same sculptural ideas translate differently between materials.
In this demonstration, Julie guides students through the construction of two torso studies, introducing foundational approaches to gathering, shaping, and building form three dimensionally. Emphasis is placed on making lines, heat placement, gravity, and the controlled use of tools to establish proportion, movement, and structural clarity.
The borosilicate section explores working with realistic figure colour, zen gathers, quick gathers, and the management of extended working time. Students will learn how to construct truncated legs, waist, torso, and wings using additive sculpting techniques, including the strategic use of punties, knives, spoons, and marvering to refine anatomy and surface flow. Attention is given to flame chemistry, proportion, and observation throughout the process.
The soft glass demonstration focuses on fluidity, speed, and responsiveness, allowing students to experience how similar sculptural decisions behave under different thermal conditions. Together, the two demos offer a comparative study in material behaviour, pacing, and sculptural problem solving.
Throughout the process, Julie emphasizes patience, observation, and working intuitively with the glass. Proportion, balance, and timing are central themes, encouraging students to slow down, look critically, and adjust as the form develops.
Techniques shown range from beginner to intermediate and require practice. Expect learning moments, adjustments, and refinement as part of the process. After purchase, access may take up to 24 hours to activate. Access is provided for six months. Learning options and access details are outlined in the Learning Tiers section.
Skill level Beginner to Intermediate
Process Lampworking Soft glass and Borosilicate
Requirements Your own torch
Our Learning Tier System - Graduated Support
Learning Tiers
Choose the level of access and support that best suits how you like to learn.
All tiers include access to the full E-demo; the difference lies in the duration of access and the level of support provided.Tier A — Watch Only
A self-led option for focused viewing and inspiration.
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Watch-only access to the full demo for 6 months
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Learn at your own pace with pause and replay functionality
Best suited to students who want to explore the technique independently, without additional materials or mentoring.
Tier B — Supported Learning
For learners who value reference material alongside the video.
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Everything included in Tier A
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Complimentary downloadable course materials
(reference images, notes, diagrams, and/or process guides) -
Watch-only access for 6 months
Ideal for students who want structure and resources to support practice at the torch.
Tier C — Mentored & Certified
A guided learning experience with personal support and lasting recognition.
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Everything included in Tier B
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Extended access for life to the demo
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30-minute one-to-one online consultation with Zurich Glass School
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Official printed Certificate of Completion, posted to you from Switzerland
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Priority support during your learning period
Designed for students seeking guidance, confidence, and formal recognition of their learning.
Access is activated after purchase and may take up to 24 hours.
Consultations included in Tier C must be booked within six months of purchase.-