The Neon Experience - $575
The Neon Experience is a three-hour demonstration and history of the medium in commercial and artistic applications, as well as a glimpse into the future of the craft worldwide. No previous glass-blowing/neon bending experience is required for this event. Each participant will be able to bend neon tubing in various fires, learning rudimentary skills in the limited time available.
Possible upgrades to The Neon Experience include purchase of a wall or freestanding mount of work created in the class for $125, allowing the experience to be memorialized with your very first glass-bending work.
Making Your Own Neon Art - $975
Making Your Own Neon Art students meet for three x 4 hour sessions in the early evenings from 5-9:00 pm. Like the Neon Experience classes, no prior experience as a glass worker is required.
Each class works its way through the process of design, pattern, process, and mounting of works created (as much as is practical) by the participant. Included are all the materials available in our studio for mounting a piece of neon up to 36" x 36" (approx.) and one 9,000 volt power supply to light the piece. Creative mounting substrates and neon applications are explored and encouraged.
Advanced Neon Techniques – $500/day
Advanced Neon Techniques represents an opportunity for those who have taken one or both of the previous classes - OR - for individuals already working in the neon trades wishing to leap forward in technical skills. Extensive production work and 39 years of bending have fostered a unique set of skills in the instructor. Nate has had the good fortune of instructing some of the best production workers in the trade and has enjoyed a challenging practice of developing efficient methods of practice and execution of all types of neon tubing from 5mm to 25mm work, as well as plasma vessel creation and fill.
Group Classes for Team Building
Join us as a team to learn the basics of glass blowing and tube bending. You’ll be encouraged to contribute to a portion of a group pattern!
What’s Included
6 hours of demonstration, history, & group logo creation
Food & beverages
One small logo rendered in neon to take home with the group
Upgrades available for a larger group logo or design
Flexible timing outside of previously-coordinated events at Big Sexy Neon
Pricing
Class price for up to 10 persons: $2200
Class price for 11-20 persons: $3400
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Nate Sheaffer
Nate IS Big Sexy. Nate’s 30+ years as a neon artist has made him dedicated to bolstering the appreciation, knowledge, and manufacturing of American Neon.
After graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill in the late 80’s, Sheaffer was inspired to begin specializing in installations featuring neon lighting. His distinctive style consists of adding colorful neon wording and designs to found objects, sculptures, and canvases.
Class Schedule
