Glasshoppers Blast Into Beauty

Claudia Knauss

Have you ever cruised aboard a large ocean liner and visited the photo gallery? One of the most unique gifts you’ll find displayed are pictures perfectly etched into acrylic blocks that sparkle and shine. Now, right here at SaddleBrooke Ranch, members of Glasshoppers have the opportunity to take classes, learn this artistic process, and produce a whole new level of artwork for both themselves and their community!

Lydia Reichard, Glasshopper founder and president, attended a large glass show in Las Vegas. While there, she purchased the long-awaited Rayzist Sandblasting System. With the help of monitor Dar Nero and her husband Brian Nero, the equipment now resides in our kiln room. Classes in this process began being taught as a part of Glasshoppers “Christmas in July” program.

The Rayzist system engraves on glass or almost any other material to bring projects to the “next level” artistically. Sandblasting capably transforms shiny, glossy surfaces into a luxurious satin finish. It can also remove unwanted lines or markings, making blemishes in the materials quite literally disappear! Any imperfection can be removed and the piece can be fired again, resulting in a more upscale piece of artwork.

Come check out the gorgeous gifts that are being produced using the Rayzist Sandblasting System by visiting SaddleBrooke Ranch’s Creative Arts and Technology Center today!

The next opportunity to join Glasshoppers requires attendance at September’s Safety Class. Sign up now by contacting Joy Cafferty, membership chair, at Cafferty_j@msn.com.