charging for classes

[elle]

Have had a lot of interest from people who want to learn about glass fusing and have been toying around with holding classes in my studio. Haven't a clue of what to charge. Any ideas? Also, do you charge for firing pieces assuming that some student's may make a bunch of projects? Thanks, ~Elle

[Dani]

There are many variables to consider including the level of the class, the quality of the facilities, what supplies and tools are included, not to mention the ability of the instructor to teach well (that's an issue beyond the actual knowledge of glass). The economics of your particular location are key also. I certainly can't charge in my neck of the woods what's being charged on the coasts. What's comfortable for me has worked out to about $100 an hour with a max of ten students. So if I have a 6-hour beginning workshop that earns me $600 for that day for my time, studio, tools, and minimal supplies like scrap glass. Other materials can be purchased at retail. It breaks down to about $60 for an introductory class for the student which is quite competitive here. I've even considered offering a weekly class with a monthly fee of say, $100 per student. If I have four classes of five students each week for two hours each that would be about $2000 a month of income for the studio and a real bargain for the students. I'm saving that one for when commissions get tighter than they already are. Planning ahead is a good thing.

[elle]

Interesting, Dani! I would probably stick to basic fusing for the time being. I have had a few aquaintances ask if I would allow them to "play" with the glass and are willing to pay for my time, materials, etc. Since I just moved (finally!!!!!) into my new home and studio, I would have a real nice set-up when all is organized. Since I teach art in public school, why not teach glass at home! Do you charge extra for firing? I had a ceramic teacher at adult ed. that would bring our stuff to her home kiln and charge per size of piece. It wasn't really a lot (about $5) tops, and no one had any complaints. ~Elle

[Paul Tarlow]

One consideration is insurance -- are you covered if someone gets hurt during the class?

- Paul

Have had a lot of interest from people who want to learn about glass fusing and have been toying around with holding classes in my studio. Haven't a clue of what to charge. Any ideas? Also, do you charge for firing pieces assuming that some student's may make a bunch of projects? Thanks, ~Elle

[Dani]

I only allow my kilns to be used for that particular class project.... I don't rent it out for projects outside the class, though I get requests. In the class, the tuition covers the kiln use. Actually, I don't have that many classes in large part because I use the kilns all the time for other work. My husband can be really cranky about me having a class and tying up studio space and kiln time. Sigh. Partners can be so boring at times!

[Michael McNerney]

Elle,
I teach privatley at home.
I have an hourly rate (for my time).
They supply their own glass , tools and pay for firings, usually $10 per fire.
I do not rent out time though. I have found that if you rent time it ends up closing you out. I also have a waiver for them to sign to release me from lib.

[kelly alge]

I teach in my studio and at off-site locations... I charge more for the off-site ones to cover travel expenses, then the hosting facility adds in their cut. One thing about teaching in your home (ESPECIALLY if you make a profit) is that you need to purchase a rider on your homeowners insurance to cover "accidents". I have a waiver/liability release form also, but I'm told that it probably won't do much good if I ever get sued. My ins. guy said he doesn't want me in there with students and an open flame, or with any of the larger kilns running, so I use the quick fire and occasionally the hot head torch (shhhh) I use the same waivers for my off site classes, and add in the name of the hosting facility as well.

[elle]

Thank you ALL for your replies. The way I'm going right now, my studio won't be up and running until next year I'm still unpacking and the studio seems to be the catch all room. Plus my electric is not up for the kilns yet. I am really looking forward to getting back to work and sharig what I know!!! ~Elle

[elle]

Thank you ALL for your replies. The way I'm going right now, my studio won't be up and running until next year I'm still unpacking and the studio seems to be the catch all room. Plus my electric is not up for the kilns yet. I am really looking forward to getting back to work and sharig what I know!!! ~Elle