Leaderglass launches Kickstarter campaign

Leaderglass, a Sonoma glassblowing studio, has launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise $15,000 to build a “hot shop” space at their studio. Leaderglass opened in 2010, sharing a studio with another glassblowing artist. That artist left, leaving Leaderglass financially challenged and needing to cut costs. They relocated to a temporary space in 2014 and are now re-opening a permanent studio again.

Owner Alex Leader sells his own work out of the studio and also teaches the public the ancient art of glass blowing. From local Sonomans to business giants like Google, Leader has taught hundreds how to make glass magnets, paperweights, and more. Leaderglass hopes to raise enough funds to build a small furnace (he already owns a large furnace) and an oven. These are two critical components to a having a functioning glassblowing studio.

The Kickstarter campaign launched this week and has already raised $1,313 towards the $15,000 goal. As of today, the campaign has 25 days to go. Donations start as low as $5 and include thank you gifts that range from a handcrafted magnet by Leader ($25) to a class at the studio to make your own paperweight ($75) and a private glassblowing experience for two ($450). Learn more here.