First Impressions: Cast Bas-Relief Tile with Joanna Manousis, Online Class, November 14 and December 12, 2026

The dazzling work of Joanna Manousis demonstrates the power of her efficient, repeatable method for creating bas-relief tiles in cast glass. In this live online class, you'll learn how to create a long-lasting rubber mold of a hand-sculpted form that can be used for making bas-relief cast glass—without the need for wax! This technique can be scaled to create objects small enough for jewelry applications or for large scale sculptures. Along the way, you will gain holistic proficiency in the kilncasting process as Manousis guides you through a plethora of techniques, including:

• clay sculpting
• working with polyurethane rubber ‘positives’
• open-face refractory mold making
• water displacement
• glass calculation
• kiln firing
• basic coldworking

Some benefits that make this class and technique particularly appealing:

• The rubber mold can be used to make countless investment molds for glass casting.
• Investment molds can be made quickly and accurately with a poured method.
• You'll learn to size molds with accuracy, allowing you to create consistent and dimensionally stable components.

This live online class includes:

• Long-term online access to the 167-minute instructional video
• 2 live class sessions over Zoom with artist Joanna Manousis
• A dynamic downloadable Class Guide

The class will happen over two sessions:

• The first of these is a Viewing Party where you go through the video lesson chapter by chapter with your cohort and instructor Joanna Manousis. Students will be able to ask questions and get live answers throughout this session.
• The second live, online session will take place several weeks later, after you’ve had time to experiment with techniques of your choice. During the follow up, students will review each others’ uploaded images of class projects. You’ll discuss what worked, what didn’t, and why.

Live Class: Zoom Setup & Requirements

We use Zoom for the live class sessions. Zoom recommends using their official desktop or mobile app for optimal performance. Only use the web browser interface if you cannot access the app—but be prepared for limited functionality.

Materials & Prerequisites

• Check out the class’s Materials List to see what you'll need.
• Prerequisites: Some glassworking experience is helpful but not required. Advanced students are welcome!

Recommended Computer & Gear

• High-speed internet (4 Mbps minimum)
• Web cam
• Microphone
• Speakers or headphones
• For additional help navigating Zoom, watch our Zoom orientation video .

Because class discussion and instruction often rely on visual details, use a decently sized viewing screen. A tablet may suffice, but phones should be avoided.

Operating System

The latest version of Windows or macOS is recommended. Note that Zoom requires the 64-bit version of Windows to run the desktop app.

For more information about Zoom’s system requirements, see Zoom’s system requirements .

Class Guide

To get started after your purchase of the class, go to ACCOUNT > MY DOWNLOADABLE PRODUCTS where you will download the Class Guide. It contains all instructions and Zoom links needed for accessing class.

Learn more about Dr. Joanna Manousis.

Online / Joanna Manousis / Saturday, November 14, 9am-1pm, and Saturday, December 12, 9-11am, 2026, Pacific Time (ONL240-0004) / $360