Make Your Own Stained Glass Honeycomb

Introduction

If you’re visiting Santa Fe and looking for a hands-on activity that combines creativity with a touch of history, the Make Your Own Stained Glass Honeycomb tour might just be the perfect fit. This experience isn’t your typical tourist attraction; it’s a chance to craft something beautiful with your own hands, even if you’ve never touched glass before.

What truly stands out about this workshop are its accessibility and warm atmosphere. The fact that it’s designed for complete beginners and lasts about an hour makes it ideal for those who want a meaningful, creative break from sightseeing without a huge time or money commitment. Plus, the ability to take your finished piece home the same day is a nice, tangible souvenir.

One potential consideration is that you’ll need to be comfortable standing on a squishy mat for the duration, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. Also, at $100 per person, the price is on the higher side for a short workshop, but many reviews suggest it’s good value for the quality of the experience.

This workshop is especially well-suited for arts lovers, curious travelers, or families with kids aged 10 and up who want to try something different in Santa Fe. If you’re after a creative activity that’s relaxing and rewarding, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience needed; all glass pieces are precut, making it accessible for everyone.
• Creative Keepsake: You’ll leave with a personalized stained glass ornament—ready for hanging or gifting.
• Historical Techniques: Uses century-old methods developed by Tiffany and others, adding a layer of craftsmanship.
• Flexible and Convenient: About an hour long, with a mobile ticket and a friendly small group capped at 12.
• Great Value: Many reviewers feel it’s worth the cost, especially considering the personalized creation and expert guidance.
• Accessible for Kids: Suitable for ages 10 and up, making it a family-friendly activity.

A Closer Look at the Experience

When you arrive at the studio located at 1730 Camino Carlos Rey, you’ll notice a welcoming and creative environment. The studio’s ambiance encourages play and imagination, which is a big part of what makes this experience so enjoyable. From the start, you’re invited to select from dozens of types of art glass—an assortment that sparks curiosity and personal expression.

The process involves using well-established techniques from Tiffany and other stained glass masters, which might sound intimidating but is made simple thanks to the studio’s guidance. Since all the glass pieces are pre-cut, you don’t need any prior skill or experience—just a willingness to experiment and have fun.

Participants typically spend about an hour working on their honeycomb ornament. You’ll be guided step-by-step by the instructor, Teresa, who is praised for her patience, kindness, and helpfulness. Reviewers describe her as a “sweet person” who makes the process accessible and encouraging, even for first-timers. This supportive environment is key to enjoying the activity, especially if you’re nervous about working with glass.

One of the highlights of this workshop is the chance to create a personalized piece that can be hung in a window or as decor. The honeycomb design is charming and adaptable, making it easy to customize with your choice of colors and glass textures.

The Crafting Process

You start by choosing your glass, which adds a tactile and visual element to the activity. The instructor then demonstrates the centuries-old techniques for binding the glass pieces together, giving you a brief peek into traditional stained glass craftsmanship. Because the glass is pre-cut, your focus can be on the fun part—assembling and designing your ornament.

The studio provides all necessary tools and materials, so you can just relax and enjoy the process. The environment is designed to foster creativity and play, making it suitable even for those who might feel a little intimidated by the idea of working with stained glass.

Taking Your Art Home

Once your piece is assembled and finished, it’s cleaned and packaged, ready for you to take home. The fact that you can transport your creation on a plane makes this a great souvenir or gift. Several reviewers appreciated being able to leave with something tangible and handcrafted, rather than just a photo or memory.

The Group Dynamic and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the workshop maintains an intimate feel that encourages interaction and individual attention. Reviewers often highlight the welcoming, laid-back atmosphere and the patience of the instructor as big pluses. One reviewer even mentioned being allowed to participate despite arriving an hour late, which suggests flexibility and understanding on the studio’s part.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $100 per person, this experience is on the pricier side for a one-hour activity, but most reviews indicate it’s worth the cost. Many travelers mention feeling they received good value, especially given the personalized guidance and the quality of the finished product. As one reviewer put it, “Worth it!” and praised Teresa’s patience and helpfulness.

The workshop offers a unique chance to learn about a traditional craft in an approachable way. You’ll not only get a memorable activity, but also a handcrafted ornament that can serve as a keepsake of your trip.

Keep in mind that the experience is best suited for those with a general interest in arts and crafts or anyone curious about the stained glass process. The studio’s location near public transportation makes it accessible, and the short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect if you want a creative, hands-on experience without committing days or hundreds of dollars. It’s well-suited for adults and older children (10+) who enjoy arts, crafts, or DIY projects. It’s also great for travelers looking for something different from the usual sightseeing—something memorable and personal.

If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll likely enjoy the fun of choosing colors and assembling their own ornament. On the other hand, if you have mobility concerns or dislike standing on squishy mats, that’s worth considering since you’ll be on your feet for most of the workshop.

Overall, if your goal is to do something memorable, learn a bit about an ancient craft, and leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir, this workshop checks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. All the glass pieces are precut, and the instructor provides step-by-step guidance, making it very beginner-friendly.

How long does the workshop last?
The experience takes about an hour, which makes it easy to fit into a busy travel itinerary.

Can I take my finished ornament on a plane?
Yes, the studio confirms you can carry your glass work home on a plane, making it a great souvenir.

What is the age limit?
Participants should be 10 years and older. The activity is family-friendly for kids in that age range.

What should I wear?
Comfortable standing shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet during the workshop.

Is this activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
It might not be ideal for those who have difficulty standing on a squishy mat for about an hour, so consider this before booking.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within that window aren’t refunded.

Who is the experience provider?
TLC Stained Glass, a studio with a reputation for friendly, patient instruction and quality craftsmanship.

How busy are the group sizes?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring plenty of individual attention.

How do I book?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance; reservations are straightforward through Viator.

The Make Your Own Stained Glass Honeycomb workshop in Santa Fe offers a lovely way to learn a traditional craft in a relaxed environment. With an emphasis on beginner friendliness, value, and a personal keepsake, it’s worth considering if you’re after a memorable activity that blends artistry with fun.