Laurel Marie Hagner, artist and owner of Glassometry Studios, has no trouble explaining the draw of glassblowing. “When you watch it being worked, it is like liquid fire,” Hagner said. “It’s intriguing in its live state.”

Though newcomers might feel intimidated, studios like Glassometry, just south of Hood River, make it easy to jump right in to the art of glassblowing. Hagner offers two-hour, four-hour, eight-hour and six-week classes. And she also has some drop-in activities that take as little as 10 or 20 minutes. Recent visitors have blown pears, apples and pumpkins — resonant of the nearby Hood River Valley Fruit Loop. “We can help enough that students can walk out with a really beautiful object they’ve made,” she said.

Those who prefer to shop can check out the sculptures, vases, glasses and ornaments made by Hagner in the Glassometry Studios gallery, or talk to staff about some of the luminous custom sinks, lights and sculptures they’ve created for homeowners.

Glassometery is open weekends and by appointment in the spring, and Wednesday through Sunday in the summer.

For other classes, workshops and demonstrations at glass studios around the state, check out Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio in Lincoln City, Live Laugh Love Glass in Tigard, Eugene Glass School, Portland Glass Blowers, and Neoglassic Studio in Medford.

Experience the adventure of glassblowing by learning to make your own glass ornaments, paperweights, floats, pumpkins, and/or cups in our beginning glassblowing workshop. Call or email to schedule your workshop today!

Editor’s Note: Glassometery is offering spring classes as part of Hood River’s “Travel to Learn” program that offers exciting experiences in culinary arts, fine arts, outdoor recreation, family fun, business, and more. Get more information on glass blowing classes at: http://hoodriver.org/travel-to-learn#selfimprovement