When most people think of summer camps, they picture sports, swimming, and arts-and-crafts tables. But in Salem, there’s a summer experience that takes creativity to a completely different level: learning to shape, melt, cut, and transform glass into real works of art.
The summer workshops at North Shore Glass School offer something rare for kids and teens the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of glassmaking in a hands-on studio environment.
For families looking for something beyond the typical summer program, this might be one of the most unique camps you’ll find anywhere.
A Week of Real Artistic Skills
The program is designed for young creators ages 7–17, with age-appropriate workshops that run weekly throughout the summer. Over the course of a week, students are introduced to multiple forms of glass art and complete a variety of projects they can proudly take home.
Participants don’t need any previous experience, just curiosity and creativity.
During the program, kids may explore:
- Fused glass – designing colorful plates, bowls, or jewelry
- Stained glass – learning cutting, foiling, and soldering techniques
- Flameworking – shaping molten glass with a torch to create small sculptures or jewelry
- Sandblasting – adding textures and designs to glass surfaces
- Glassblowing – learning the basics of shaping hot glass in a studio setting
By the end of the week, students walk away not just with art pieces, but with real skills and a deeper appreciation for the craft of glassmaking.
A Rare Opportunity for Kids
Glass art is one of the oldest artistic traditions in the world yet it’s something most kids rarely get to try.
Programs like this provide a rare chance to experience techniques that even many adults have never attempted. From carefully cutting sheets of glass to watching molten glass transform in the studio, the process is both educational and unforgettable.
More importantly, students gain:
- Creative confidence
- Hands-on problem-solving skills
- Exposure to professional art techniques
- A deeper appreciation for craftsmanship
And of course, plenty of fun along the way.
Designed for Young Artists
The summer program is split into two groups to make sure every child gets an experience suited to their age.
Junior Workshops (Ages 7–10)
Held at the school’s Artist Row studio in downtown Salem, these sessions introduce younger kids to glass art through approachable projects like sea glass sculpture, glass painting, and simple fused glass designs.
Kids’ Workshops (Ages 10+)
Older students work in the main studio on Proctor Street and dive deeper into techniques like glassblowing, flameworking, stained glass, and sandblasting.
Each workshop runs Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM, with weekly sessions offered from mid-June through late August.
Why This Camp Stands Out
What makes this program special isn’t just the art it’s the opportunity to learn a craft that blends science, design, and creativity.
Kids get to experiment, create, and discover what happens when imagination meets molten glass.
In a world full of screens and digital entertainment, there’s something powerful about working with real materials, real tools, and real artistic processes. And sometimes, the most unforgettable summer experiences are the ones that teach you how to make something truly unique.
Learn MoreTo explore available sessions and registration details, visit: |
