Glass designer offers ornament classes

BERLIN -- In as little as 15 minutes, visitors to the Jeffrey Auxer Glass Studio can try their hand at blowing glass and make their very own keepsake ornament.

At the studio and gallery, located behind the Atlantic Hotel in downtown Berlin, Auxer has been inviting the public to try this exciting medium of art since he opened his doors in 2009.

As a former teaching assistant in the glass studio at Salisbury University, where he earned his degree in business, he's become accustomed to instructing newcomers.

"It's pretty crazy how quick the ornaments took off," he said. "It's something different people can come do."

Upon arrival, students get a quick introduction and then choose a color. Once the glass is heated in the furnace, the student then blows the glass while Auxer helps form the ball-shaped ornament.

There's no experience necessary, and Auxer invites people of all ages to get in on the fun. He said he's had students as young as 4 years old make their own ornaments.

Last year, he offered the walk-in class every Saturday during November and December and had more than 400 visitors.

"During the holiday season, everyone is making them as gifts," he said. "Parents bring their kids to make the ornaments as presents for their family members and they take their pictures while they do it."

For those interested in learning more about the craft, Auxer welcomes spectators every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday while he works in his studio.

"I have large glass windows so people can watch but not be in the heat," he said.

Olive Mawyer, executive director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, said Auxer's studio has become a destination for residents and visitors.

"Jeffrey Auxer has made quite an impression on the town," she said. "It's definitely a destination point, especially during the holidays when the kids can go in and make the gifts. It's a cool thing to be able to do."