About Me
The Full Story
Hi, I’m Saffie – the face and hands behind Saffie’s Glass Studio. I’m a self-taught fused glass artist living and working in the beautiful North East of England. My journey into the world of glass art began quite unexpectedly, but it's grown into something truly special.
​
In 2021, I was gifted a fused glass taster session – a thoughtful experience that ended up changing the course of my creative life. From the very first moment I cut and assembled those tiny pieces of colourful glass, I was captivated. The process was magical – the way the glass transformed in the kiln, the colours, the light – I knew immediately that I wanted to keep going.
​
Soon after, I invested in a small kiln and the essential materials to start experimenting from home. What began on a modest worktop in the corner of a room quickly expanded. I was making pieces almost daily, selling at local craft fayres, and receiving such positive feedback that I soon took over the entire spare room! The joy I found in glass became something I wanted to share with others.
​
That’s when I began offering workshops. At first, they were small and informal – just a few people at a time – but word spread, and interest grew. I now run sessions for groups of up to 15 people, guiding others as they explore this fascinating and accessible art form for themselves. Watching people discover their creativity and leave with something they’ve made with their own hands is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
​
Over the past few years, I’ve travelled across the North East, attending craft fairs, running pop-up workshops, and building a lovely community of glass lovers and makers. Now, I'm incredibly excited to welcome people to my own dedicated studio space, nestled near Barnard Castle. It’s a cosy, light-filled workshop where up to 10 people can come together, learn, create, and enjoy a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.
​
Whether you’re completely new to fused glass or just looking for a creative escape, my studio is open to anyone with a curiosity and love for making. I’d love to welcome you to a class, or even create a bespoke piece just for you.
The Studio
Nestled in the peaceful village of Woodland in County Durham, Saffie’s Glass Studio is a welcoming and light-filled creative space designed to inspire. Thoughtfully set up to accommodate workshops for up to 10 people, the studio offers a relaxed and friendly environment where makers of all abilities can feel comfortable exploring the world of fused glass.
​
Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped space brimming with a wide range of colourful glass mediums, tools, and materials – everything you need to experiment, learn, and bring your creative ideas to life. Whether you’re cutting your first piece of glass or layering bold designs with confidence, the studio is designed to support your journey every step of the way.
​
But it’s not just the inside that inspires. The studio is perched above the stunning Gaunless Valley, offering panoramic views that stretch across the Vane Estate, The Stang Forest, the famous Elephant Trees, the Cleveland Hills, and – on a clear day – all the way to the Saltburn coast. With natural beauty in every direction, it’s easy to find inspiration just by glancing out the window.
​
Workshops here are as much about the experience as they are about the finished piece. You'll be welcomed with plenty of tea, fresh coffee, and biscuits to keep your creativity fuelled throughout your session. The atmosphere is calm, supportive, and full of good conversation – whether you come with friends or on your own.
​
Whether you're looking to try something new, gift a creative experience, or just take time for yourself in a beautiful setting, Saffie’s Glass Studio is a space where you can slow down, experiment, and enjoy the magic of glassmaking in the heart of the North East countryside.
