ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Heading the class offerings for this fall are the island’s first glass-blowing classes.

With the addition of The Hot Shop at the Orange Beach Arts Center, glass-blowing classes exploring the many facets of glass art will be offered.

Students can stop in for a short introduction to the art of glass and have the experience of making either an ornament ($20) or a paperweight ($35).

Each Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., resident glass artist Joe Hobbs will be available to help you “Make Your Own” piece of glass.

For those ready to take the plunge, Hobbs will be teaching a one-day workshop each Saturday, from 2 to 5 p.m., Glass Blowing for Beginners. This three-hour class is designed to give beginners an introduction to basic glass blowing.

The class will give students ample hands-on experience as they learn classic techniques such as shaping the glass, making basic forms and applying basic color to the glass.

By the end of the workshop, students will have made paperweights, ornaments and vessels. Students can expect to make three to four pieces, which will be ready to take home the next day.

To enroll in any of the OBAC classes, call (251) 981-2787, or visit www.orangebeachartscenter.com.