How do I register for a class?
You can register and pay for any of our classes online. We also run private lessons all year round, and if you join our mailing list you'll be the first to know when new classes are released.

Do you teach private lessons?
Yes! Please fill in the Private Lesson Form and we will be in touch shortly. All information on Private Lessons can be found here.

Can I buy a class as a gift for someone else?
Yes, you can. Gift Certificates can be bought in multiples of $25, $50, $100, $150, or $200, or the full dollar amount of a private lesson here. You can also buy the full dollar amount of a class and they can use that to pay when they register - just email us to arrange this.

Do I have to be a member to register for a class?
No! Classes and lessons are open to all, age 16+, and most of our classes cater to beginners with no previous experience.

What is your refund policy?
For classes with visiting instructors:

• If you cancel 30 days or more before the first class: Full refund less $25.00 administration fee.
• If you cancel 8-29 days before the first class: 50% refund less $25.00 administration fee.
• If you cancel 7 days or less before the first class: No refund.
• Missed classes will not be refunded under any circumstances.

For all other classes:

• If you cancel 14 days or more before the first class: Full refund less $25.00 administration fee.
• If you cancel 8-13 days before the first class: 50% refund less $25.00 administration fee.
• If you cancel 7 days or less before the first class: No refund.
• Missed classes will not be refunded under any circumstances.

Refund Policy: If We Cancel
We reserve the right to cancel any class, course or workshop or replace any instructor. We may cancel a course if it doesn’t meet minimum enrollment within 7 days before the first class. If we cancel a course we will contact you to discuss placement in alternate courses, or a refund.

Please see our Terms & Conditions page for full details.

Can I switch classes once I have signed up?
If you register for a class, course or workshop and then want to move to the same class, course or workshop offered on different dates, this may be possible if there is space on the alternate dates.

• If you reschedule 14 days or more before the first class: $25.00 administration fee.
• If you reschedule 8-13 days before the first class: $25.00 administration fee + 25% of course fee.
• If you reschedule 7 days or less before the first class: $25.00 administration fee + 50% of course fee.
• You may only reschedule once per class, course or workshop. After that you have to cancel (see policy above).

In the event of unreasonable conduct, Terminal City Glass Co-op reserves the unconditional right to terminate a student’s enrollment in a course, class or private lesson.

What do I need to do to prepare for my class?
Please see our Student Information page. For most classes at TCGC, you won’t need anything except proper clothing and footwear. We supply all materials.

When can I pick up my work?
Most work made in classes and lessons can be picked up within a few days to a week from your class. Just email us at info@terminalcityglass.com to arrange your collection. Our office hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10am-2pm - please always give us a heads up (either by phone or email) before you come by.

How can I practice what I have learned?
Newbie Nights are a great way for students to practice their skills. See the Newbie Night section below for more information.

How do I become a member of TCGC?
Membership in Terminal City Glass Co-op is open to anyone (age 18+) who wishes to apply. Membership is required to use the facilities at TCGC, unless you are enrolled in a course or attending Newbie Night.

To apply, submit your Membership Application, and pay your non-refundable application fee of $50.00 + GST.

The Board of Directors and Management review all Membership applications. Due to the fact that we are a volunteer-driven organization, this process can take up to 6 weeks.

You may be required to complete a Trial period of up to 90 days before approval of membership.

Full details on applying to become a member of the Co-op can be found here.

 

How much does it cost to become a member?

• There is a $50.00 + GST non-refundable Application Fee due before we process your application.
• Each member must purchase $200.00 in membership shares (4 shares at $50.00 each) These shares are refundable if you choose to leave the Co-op. Payment of shares is due upon acceptance into the Co-op.
• There is a Monthly Fee of $15 +GST for each member. This fee is included along with your monthly rental invoice.  

 

What is the benefit of becoming a member?

• You must be a member to rent studio time at TCGC; non-members may only attend classes, lessons, or Newbie Nights.
• Because our organization is a co-operative, the members are owners. Each member is entitled to one vote at our general meetings, including electing a Board of Directors.
• Members are given key access to the studio, and eligible members are able to use the facilities at their leisure.
• Members enjoy special events and community opportunities that are not available to the public.

How do I get to Terminal City Glass Co-op?
We are located at 1191 Parker Street, Vancouver, B.C. We are easily accessible by car, bicycle or the #22 Bus route.

Do you have parking?

We have bicycle and vehicle parking available at TCGC. You can park anywhere around the building where it says “Authorized Parking”.

How do I get in?

If you are coming for a class or event please ring the doorbell. If you are stopping by, please do not disturb the artists working in the studio; they are renting studio time, and will not be able to answer questions. Contact us first via info@terminalcityglass.com if you would like to visit the studio.

Do you have a kitchen?

Yes, we have a small kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave. You are free to use it during classes or rental time.

Where can I put my things?

We have small lockers that you can store your belongings in during classes and lessons.

What is Pre Authorized Debit (PAD)?
Pre-authorized debits (PADs) are a convenient way to pay bills and make payments automatically. Instead of needing to send an e-transfer or cheque, you give TCGC permission to debit your bank account when the payment is due. In addition, you will receive a 5% discount on your monthly invoice.  

What is my responsibility if I sign up for Pre Authorized Debit (PAD)?

Once you have signed up for PAD, you will receive an invoice at the beginning of each month outlining your usage for the previous month. It is your responsibility to let us know ASAP if your email or banking info needs to be changed. It is also your responsibility to review each invoice to ensure that it is correct. Please send all questions to accounting@terminalcityglass.com. If you notice a mistake to an invoice after the debit has been processed, the correction will be made to your next PAD.

When will my invoice be debited?  

All PADs will occur on the 15th of the month following your invoice. For example, your Aug 31st invoice will be withdrawn on Sept 15th.

How is my information used / kept secure?  

In order to register for PAD, we require a copy of your void cheque or bank information a long with a signed agreement to the terms. This information and agreement is secured in our office in a locked cabinet. The information is loaded into a secure website through Vancity which requires 2-step authentication.  

Can I pay by credit card?
No. Due to the transactional costs associated with accepting credit cards, we have kept our member rental prices lower by accepting payments only by Pre-Authorized Debit, E-transfer, or cheque.

Can I pay by cash?
No. TCGC no longer keeps cash on location and will not be able to accept cash payments.

Can I pre-pay for my rental?
Yes, you can make pre-payments on your account, but you will not receive the PAD discount. You will still be invoiced each month and the email with your invoice will specify if you have credit or an amount owing on your account. Any amounts outstanding after 2 months will have interest charges added to the next invoice. It is your responsibility to ensure your account is kept up to date.

Can I pay by e-transfer or cheque?
Yes. If you do not sign up for Pre-Authorized Debit, you will still be invoiced and be required to make payment by e-transfer or cheque. You will be invoiced monthly and any amounts outstanding after 2 months will have interest charges added to the next invoice. It is your responsibility to ensure your account is kept up to date. Once your outstanding balance is over $200 for more than 60 days, your facility privileges will be suspended until you can bring your account up to date.

What if I get my invoice but realize that I don’t have enough the fund to pay my invoice by PAD date?
Email accounting@terminalcityglass.com ASAP to let them know. If we receive the request prior to the bank cut-off (3 business days in advance), then we can cancel the debit. However, if we are not notified in time and the debit goes through, your account may go into overdraft or the payment will be rejected. If the payment is rejected, there is an NSF charge on our end and there also be a charge on your end as well (if you do not have overdraft protection on your end).
If the payment is declined, then the invoice will be re-sent to you (with the PAD discount removed and an additional $25 charge to cover the NSF charge).

What is Newbie Night?

Newbie Night is our supervised open studio practice night, open to anyone who has the required experience, whether you are a member or not!

For Flame Studio:

• Tuesday nights: 6-9pm (PDT); 5:30-8:30pm (PST)
• You need to book in advance, 6 slots are available
• You must have at least 6 hours of instruction at TCGC or relevant experience. (We may ask you to demonstrate your skill before you use the torch.)
• We supply tools and torch, and glass.

>>> READ FULL DETAILS HERE

For Glassblowing:

• Friday Nights or by appointment.
• Newbie Night is currently on hold.
• Requisite experience: 36 hours of TCGC class instruction or 16 hours of private lessons.
• You should find your own partner for Newbie Nights.

>>> READ FULL DETAILS HERE

 

What do I need to bring to Newbie Night?

For Glassblowing, you don’t need to bring anything but yourself, and wear the appropriate clothing for the hot shop.

For Flameworking, you can bring your own glass or we will provide you with glass.

How much does Newbie Night cost?

For Glassblowing, the cost per bench is $355.00 + GST, and must be booked and paid in advance. For Flame Studio, the cost per seat is $95.00 + GST, and must be booked and paid in advance.

TCGC is a co-operative facility that artists use independently to make their own work. As an organization, we do not take commissions or repairs, however if you have a custom project in mind you can email custom.work@terminalcityglass.com and we can do our best to refer you. Please include as much information as possible; dimensions, budget, deadline and photos are all very helpful.

If you would like to hire a particular artist, please try to contact them directly. Please refer to our Member Directory for our member's specialties and contact info.

Please note: Many repairs are often not feasible or run the risk of damaging the piece further. We recommend reading this website on how to repair broken pieces with glue.

Do you sell glass supplies?

No, we do not sell glass supplies. Materials are included in all of our classes.

Where can I purchase glass supplies?

Take a look at our Glass Suppliers page for a list of useful links.