Last year when we were in Stowe, we had every intention of going to this glassblowing studio... but…read moreran out of time. This year, when I planned for our return to Stowe, I was bound and determined to make it happen this time. So we were able to make it happen, and I'm so glad that we did. The owners have set up a separate viewing room, loaded with seats for viewing through a huge glass window, and no matter where one sits, they can see perfectly. One of the glassblowers comes in to call out what the working glassblower is doing each step of the way... and why. Very interesting and informative, plus totally cool to watch, even if we weren't being given the information. It was completely fascinating. Then, they have a lovely gallery of their work, and to be honest, after watching their awesome demonstration, I didn't have any issue with the prices being charged because it is REALLY DIFFICULT work, and they deserve whatever they are seeking price-wise. I bought my daughter and son-in-law a vase. I'm just sorry I didn't buy something for ourselves because we loved their work. I wasn't sure how to get it home, and for some reason, I never bothered to ask if they'd ship it. Duh. I guess that means we should go back next year and remedy the situation. Or I could just pick up the phone to call and ask them. Seems like more fun to go back to Stowe next year, given how much we love the area sooooooooo much. Anyway, make sure you avail yourselves to catching one of their glassblowing demonstrations. It is so very worth it... and make sure you buy something, too. They do such beautiful work !!!

Lots of fun, come by to shop for gifts or watch the masters/partners do their magic in the shop and…read morewalk you through the glass blowing process. I have such an appreciation for this work as I never understood the complexities of it! I now know why this art can be so expensive and is coveted by so many people and collectors.

This was quite the experience. Michael, ever the keen wordsmith, is an intensely focused…read moreprofessional with high attention to detail. It follows that glass blowing is his game. So here's the deal. In the 1hr class, you'll be under his watchful eye as he guides you through some of the basics. You'll first pick a color scheme to apply to one of four solids. Then you'll enter the belly of the beast, where Meticulous Mike will serve as art director, stage manager and Socratic facilitator. (It will behoove you to know that that last one when you visit the studio.) Like many of the finer things in life, it's the intersection of art and science. He will tease out what you already know and fill in what you don't. Then he'll demo ALL of the steps before execution. This thorough rehearsal is a critical step, as we must consider elements like tools, body position, working time, gravity, rotation, temperature, something called a LEHR, and a kiln-like contraption that screams hot at a spicy 2400ºF. And if you go with a buddy, that adds the extra layer of deciding who needs to stand where and at what time to capture some photos. Lots to think about - but fret not, for you're in good hands. Once the demo is done, it's time for the real thing. You can expect a good amount of hands-on, although Michael will do some of the particularly technical bits himself (probably for the better - hot glass is finicky, even more so in a neophyte's grubby little mitts). Once the process is done, you've got a neat piece that you can bring home to put on display. How cool! ("No - it's /hot/," Michael will quickly interject.) ** DISCLAIMER ** the cooling process takes about a day. If you're visiting, do NOT schedule Little River on your last day. You'll need to return the following day to collect your handiwork. ** ADDENDUM ** Having just read RM's and JG's scathing 2O24 reviews - aight, sure, the Mike Aura definitely gives has an edgy, punchy, perfectionist flavor if you will. But uh, isn't that called being an artist?

Unfortunately, our recent visit mirrored the experience of another reviewer who visited in January…read more2024. The owner's sense of humor - at everyone's else's expense - totally ruined the event, which was a birthday present. When we sign up for activities such as glass blowing, we do so to learn, explore and have fun. However when someone is constantly mocking your lack of knowledge, making sarcastic comments and takes personal shots at you, it is not a positive experience. Michael had talked about the possibility of retiring. I think that would be a good plan. I would highly advise others to spend their time and money at other venues in the beautiful town of Stowe. VT.

I took the paperweight making class during a trip to Vermont and had the best time! I was the only…read moreone signed up that day so I had a one-on-one class with Spencer. In addition to learning about the art of glass making, I learned about Vermont, its history and sites to see. The paperweight had to cool down overnight so I had it shipped home and just received it today - it's the best souvenir. My daughter thought it was really cool so now we are planning to take a glass making class locally. Highly recommended!

My girlfriend and I attended Spencer's Pâte de Verre class and had an excellent time. Spencer was a…read moregreat teacher, and explained the whole process very clearly. He also knows a lot about the area, had recommendations for our time around Warren, and has great facts and stories from across the Northeast and UK. I would highly recommend taking any class at Salt and Sand, we intend to return next year for the pumpkin making class and/or doing Pâte de Verre again.

For over the last 15 years I have slowly purchased pieces of their signature bubble glassware…read more Candlestick holders, tumblers, wine glasses, and cocktail glasses. The pieces are unique, classy, and functional on all levels. Amazing husband and wife team, Harry and Wendy Besett who have dedicated their lives to creating unique and high quality glass art and household stemware among many other pieces. The pieces are individually made upon order and each piece is truly unique. In addition, each piece is signed by Harry Besett. Since I do not live in Vermont, I email when I want to purchase items and they facilitate the transaction and carefully mail the pieces to me. They also show their work at their gallery and at art shows in multiple states! True treasures!

The Shelburne Craft School is a gem in the town of Shelburne. It offers an assortment of art…read moreclasses to both adults and kids in a cozy setting. The staff is friendly and creative. My two children have attended many classes over the years, with amazing results and they always leave smiling.

From the owner: Mailing Address: Shelburne Craft School…read morePO Box 52 Shelburne, VT 05482 The Shelburne Craft School is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We offer opportunities to learn, teach, and develop as artists, artisans, and professionals.

I stop by this store every time I'm in Burlington. Over the years I've bought many different art…read moreprints and trinkets and they're still some of my favorites I have in my home. There's a good variety of different types of art (some photography, some prints, some originals, pottery, jewelry, etc.) and they're at varying price levels. Though some artists are very expensive, they always have a ton of stuff that is really affordable, as well. I'm always able to find something at my desired price point for the day. I never mind spending a little more because everything is made by local Vermont artists, and makes for much nicer gifts than generic tourist trap type things. Their selection of ornaments for this year is so cute! Definitely recommend a stop in here over most other places on Church St.

I wasn't certain what to expect on our first visit. My wife, baby and I were walking on Church…read moreStreet and she suggested we go in. I am excited that she wanted to. I was lost in a world of art. Photography, paints, wood working, metal, furniture, ceramics... and much more. Finally my wife had to come to me and snap me out of my Vermont-local-artist-creativity induced trance. I will go back! Love it!

Absolutely Stunning bue wine goblet! Perfect workmanship!…read moreI couldn't be more thrilled. Thank you!

A shame the reviews aren't current. Lovely space, easy to find and a nice selection of glass items.read more

What a lovely museum, art gallery, and some of the pieces are even for sale. The place is brightly…read morelit and clean. We browsed the art and enjoyed the lovely pieces. If you are in the area, highly recommend, just unique and lovely.

Very interesting art gallery! This gallery has some fantastic art pieces for sale from indigenous…read moreart to beautiful blown art glass. It's like visiting a museum with price tags!

I want to preface this by pointing out that I am not at all- in any way, shape, or form (see what I…read moredid there)-artistic! And you know what, I am fine with that. So, when the opportunity arose to test out "A Taste of Art" I jumped at it. I wanted to see just how far I could push my lack of talent and see what results would be gathered from the experience. I attended a Paint and Sip evening at Butch + Babe's restaurant in Burlington. Upon walking in, the first thing I noticed was the intimate size of the space and that there were a few too-many-tables-to-count set up in the far right side of the restaurant for the paint event. Aside from that, I also observed a confident presence. Standing at the head of the table was a warm, eager looking lady whom I later came to learn was Sue herself! Sue had already taken the time to set up each one of our canvases, paint dollops, brushes, water, and even aprons! Though the space was a bit tight, I really felt that we had adequate room to maneuver our inner artists! Sue began the sessions by telling us a tiny bit about herself and her business. She then showed us the painting we would use as a guide and gently began to introduce us into the world of painting. I found Sue to be quite instructional and pleasant. Though she was at the very front of the space, she took the time to really engage with all of us on an individual basis. She did her best to accommodate our random artistic whims and really worked with individuals to guide them in adding character to their paintings. Sue is real, relate able, and has a calm, soothing way about her. She is very passionate about what she does and she wants to share it with the world. So go on, go hang out with Sue; bring out the artist within!

I have been lucky enough to do 2 classes with Sue. One was an event thru SEABA and the second was a…read moreprivate party at a co-workers home. At both events Sue walked us all thru a painting (the sunflowers and the snowman if you review the photos - note - those aren't my photos!) With the exception of the art credit I need for my electives, I tend to be more a spreadsheet kinda girl verses creative.... Sue can make anyone an artist! Trust me a little wine helps with any nerves you might have too! Both results were fantastic and I have them hanging proudly on my wall. If you want a fun night out with friends that isn't your normal dinner and drinks, try one of Sue's events!