Marsha Rafter

3D Mosaic Cactus Sculpture July 23-26, 2020
2020-07-23 10:00 - 2020-07-26 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
If you’ve been looking for a concentrated opportunity to advance your understanding and skills in creating three dimensional sculpture, then this class will knock your socks off. You’ll be provided with a steel armature and then over four days you’ll learn how to cut wedi board to cover the cactus paddles, learn all the steps for applying mesh and concrete to your armature, and then work in the indirect method with mesh to apply your mosaic tesserae to your sculpture. There will be an inspiring array of materials at your disposal.
Your piece can be mosaicked on both sides or on just one if it will be up against a wall. If you are a fast worker, and quick at making decisions, you’ll be grouting on day four.
Instruction will be provided via handouts, demos, discussion, hands-on building, one on one guidance and critique. Development of design ideas will be discussed prior to working and there will be lots of one on one consultation ahead of time.
*All tools and materials will be provided which will include your steel armature, wedi board, thinset, grout, stained glass, iridescent glass, mirror in a variety of colors, and other precut glass and ceramic tiles.
**It will be a full four days of working. Most will finish but it is not guaranteed. It depends on the speed that you work and make decisions.
Cost for the four days is $675 which includes your armature, all materials, use of tools, and daily snacks and drinks.
Checks of 50% hold your spot.
You may sign up by emailing your intent to participate and then sending a check to:
Marsha Rafter 28202 Burned Oak Terrace Escondido, CA 92026
You may also call me with questions 530-277-5494 or email me.
*Prior mosaic experience is helpful, but not necessary.

Opuntia in the San Diego Botanic Garden

Wednesday Morning Classes - July 22
2020-07-22 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
There are so many creative projects in process in the studio – a variety of wall pieces, tables, mirrors, mandalas, garden art pieces, a large “Tree of Life”, and totems. On Tuesdays, you may choose your own project or, as always, I have ideas for projects ready for you if you prefer. Not only will you leave with a wealth of information, but you will also feel refreshed and renewed as you take tiny pieces and turn them into something beautiful.
Mosaic has been found to be very therapeutic for the body, mind and soul, is a great stress reliever, and students experience a deep sense of personal freedom and accomplishment in this process. The environment in the studio is very nurturing and there is a tremendous sense of comradery that has developed that you can be a part of.
It is recommended that students start with a small basic project to learn the techniques that will enable you to establish the foundation on which you will be able to build your expertise as a mosaic artist for both fun or profit.
Class sizes will be kept to a maximum of six for social distancing. Masks must be worn.
Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $45.00 covers most materials. Occasionally there is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.

Tuesday Morning Classes - July 21
2020-07-21 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Wednesday Morning Classes - July 15th
2020-07-15 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - July 14th
2020-07-14 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

3D Butterfly Using Foam, Steel and Pal Tiya July 9-12
2020-07-09 10:00 - 2020-07-12 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
In this class I’ll be rocking you with foam, steel, Pal Tiya, and ceramic tile. You’ll start with choosing a butterfly design and then you’ll transfer it to foam and cut it out with a jig saw. Next you’ll cover that with mesh and Pal Tiya, and then you’ll have the opportunity to make your own tiles with clay while the Pal Tiya is curing. There are a huge number of texture tools for working with the clay to create your tiles. After the tiles are fired and the Pal Tiya is cured, you’ll be able to work on completing your mosaic. There will be an abundance of stained glass, iridescent glass, and mirror in all colors to choose from. You may bring anything else you want to add with you.
Instruction will be provided via handouts, demos, discussion, hands-on building, one on one guidance and critique. Development of design ideas will be discussed prior to working and there will be lots of one on one consultation ahead of time.
*All tools and materials will be provided which will include your foam, wedi board, thinset, grout, stained glass, iridescent glass, mirror in a variety of colors, and other precut glass and ceramic tiles, as well as clay and glazes.
**It will be a full four days of working. Most will finish but it is not guaranteed. It depends on the speed that you work and make decisions.
Cost for the four days is $675.
This will be an amazing four days with lots of other peeps from your mosaic tribe. I can guarantee lots of laughter and fun!
Checks of 50% hold your spot. Checks are preferred over credit cards. If you use a credit card and you have to cancel, a $25 processing fee will be charged.
You may sign up by emailing your intent to participate and then sending a check to:
Marsha Rafter 28202 Burned Oak Terrace Escondido, CA 92026
You may also call me with questions 530-277-5494 or email me.
*Prior mosaic experience is helpful, but not necessary.
*Cancellations must be made two months before the class date.

Wednesday Morning Classes - July 8th
2020-07-08 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
There are so many creative projects in process in the studio – a variety of wall pieces, tables, mirrors, mandalas, garden art pieces, a large “Tree of Life”, and totems. On Tuesdays, you may choose your own project or, as always, I have ideas for projects ready for you if you prefer. Not only will you leave with a wealth of information, but you will also feel refreshed and renewed as you take tiny pieces and turn them into something beautiful.
Mosaic has been found to be very therapeutic for the body, mind and soul, is a great stress reliever, and students experience a deep sense of personal freedom and accomplishment in this process. The environment in the studio is very nurturing and there is a tremendous sense of comradery that has developed that you can be a part of.
It is recommended that students start with a small basic project to learn the techniques that will enable you to establish the foundation on which you will be able to build your expertise as a mosaic artist for both fun or profit.
Class sizes will be kept to a maximum of six for social distancing. Masks must be worn.
Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $45.00 covers most materials. Occasionally there is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.
All tools needed are available here in the studio. Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wear an apron.

Tuesday Morning Classes - July 7th
2020-07-07 10:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
There are so many creative projects in process in the studio – a variety of wall pieces, tables, mirrors, mandalas, garden art pieces, a large “Tree of Life”, and totems. On Tuesdays, you may choose your own project or, as always, I have ideas for projects ready for you if you prefer. Not only will you leave with a wealth of information, but you will also feel refreshed and renewed as you take tiny pieces and turn them into something beautiful.
Mosaic has been found to be very therapeutic for the body, mind and soul, is a great stress reliever, and students experience a deep sense of personal freedom and accomplishment in this process. The environment in the studio is very nurturing and there is a tremendous sense of comradery that has developed that you can be a part of.
It is recommended that students start with a small basic project to learn the techniques that will enable you to establish the foundation on which you will be able to build your expertise as a mosaic artist for both fun or profit.
Class sizes vary, but I always strive to provide students with plenty of personal time for one on one instruction. Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $45.00 covers most materials. Occasionally there is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.
All tools needed are available here in the studio. Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wear an apron.

Tuesday Morning Classes- June 30
2020-06-30 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
There are so many creative projects in process in the studio – a variety of wall pieces, tables, mirrors, mandalas, garden art pieces, a large “Tree of Life”, and totems. On Tuesdays, you may choose your own project or, as always, I have ideas for projects ready for you if you prefer. Not only will you leave with a wealth of information, but you will also feel refreshed and renewed as you take tiny pieces and turn them into something beautiful.
Mosaic has been found to be very therapeutic for the body, mind and soul, is a great stress reliever, and students experience a deep sense of personal freedom and accomplishment in this process. The environment in the studio is very nurturing and there is a tremendous sense of comraderie that has developed that you can be a part of.
It is recommended that students start with a small basic project to learn the techniques that will enable you to establish the foundation on which you will be able to build your expertise as a mosaic artist for both fun or profit.
Class sizes vary, but I always strive to provide students with plenty of personal time for one on one instruction. Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $45.00 covers most materials. Occasionally there is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.
All tools needed are available here in the studio. Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wear an apron.
* Due to allergies, please refrain from wearing any fragrances.

Tuesday Morning Classes-June 23
2020-06-23 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- June 16
2020-06-16 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- June 9
2020-06-09 10:30 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - June 2
2020-06-02 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes in Marsha's Studio- May 13
2020-05-13 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Zoom Class One on One
2020-05-02 10:00 - 2020-06-01 20:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Pick your time and date. One on one time via Zoom is a great way to work on a project with guidance while sheltering in place. You pick your project idea and purchase materials either from my Etsy shop or you can come by and pick things up here at the studio, including a substrate for indoors or outdoors, glass, ceramic tiles, thinset, grout, mesh, or whatever you need. I’ll even offer tools for your use for a minimal deposit. Class time will be for one hour.
Class Fee: $35 until May 30th. Materials are not included in the cost.

Live Session One on One
2020-05-02 10:00 - 2020-05-31 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Come work with me one on one. For a limited time during this pandemic, I am offering a reduced rate for private lessons. The fee of $30 includes one hour with me but does not include materials.

Party With Your Friends!!!
2020-05-01 10:00 - 2020-05-31 20:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Oh my gosh, don’t we all miss time together! Let’s have some fun during this time of social distancing. Bring a group of up to six people and pick from a group of preselected project ideas. I will have the materials ready and all set up for you. Tables will be spread out so that we can adhere to the required six feet apart. Don your mask and gloves and come have a great time laughing and creating together. I promise it’ll be a good time for everyone.
Class size limited to six. Pick your time and date by emailing or calling 530-277-5494.
Class fee of $45.00 includes two and a half hours of instruction and your materials.

Mosaic Retreat in Paradise- Birds, Butterflies and Blossoms
2020-03-22 18:00 - 2020-03-29 10:30 | Hacienda Mosaico, Puerta Vallarta, Mexico
$500 holds your spot. Total cost is $1995 which includes instruction and six nights shared room accommodation.
Join me and other fun loving, high energy mosaic mavens on a week long retreat to Hacienda Mosaico, in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Enjoy creating in an expansive, tropical, outdoor and art filled walled garden. Everywhere you turn there is art! The dishes are colorful, the tables are mosaic, there are mosaic benches and sculptures everywhere, and even the lamps in the rooms, the floorcloths, and the furniture are all handmade art. Meals are served poolside each day for breakfast and lunch and are so delicious.
Hacienda Mosaico is located in Colonia Versalles, a typical upscale Mexican neighborhood that affords visitors a chance to experience the charm of daily life in old Mexico. You’ll find cobbled streets, with tortillerias and markets catering to the locals rather than the tourists…..craft shops, cantinas, night life and adventure.
Evenings we will go into town for their weekly artwalk and to enjoy shopping, to explore and have dinner by the beach.
All details can be found on the Hacienda’s website.
http://haciendamosaico.com/marsha-rafter-2020/

Happy Campers

Mosaic bench downtown

Gina and her mosaic watering can

Pam working on the top of her totem

Nancy working on her bird

Chelsea and her mushroom

Teresa and her butterfly

Kathy and her turtle

Mary and the cylinder of magnificence

The gang from 2019

Fran working on her heart

A beach walk at sunset

Lori and her totem

Jorge, our chef, and his beautiful presentation for lunch

delicious and abundant food

The seafood is so fresh

Salads at every meal

Tuesday Morning Classes in Marsha's Studio- March 17
2020-03-17 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes in Marsha's Studio- March 10
2020-03-10 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Mosaic Mandalas at the California Center for Creative Renewal
2020-03-07 09:00 - 2020-03-08 17:00 | Center for Creative Renewal, Crest Dr., Encinitas, CA, 92024, United States
March 7, 8, 2020
9:00-5:00
This will be my third year teaching at the California center for Creative Renewal. It’s such an inspirational place to be. Ellen’s garden is magnificent. Come join us for two days of mandala making.
Using the symbolic meanings of colors to select your materials, you will be guided to complete a 16” mandala from design to grout in two days. Using glass gems, stained glass, mirrored glass, and ceramic tiles, you will become immersed in the symmetry and flow of this circular form as the creating becomes a form of meditation. The materials used are weatherproof which will allow you to hang your piece outside on a garden wall.
You can register directly through the California Center for Creative Renewal here:
https://www.artretreats.com/events/mosaic-mandalas-3

Tuesday Morning Classes in Marsha's Studio March 3
2020-03-03 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes February 25
2020-02-25 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- February 18th
2020-02-18 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

3D Mosaic Hearts - February 15, 16
2020-02-15 10:00 - 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
February 15, 10:00-5:00
February 16 9:30-12:30
For the last several years I have intended to teach a heart class in February. This time I am committed! Come celebrate the season of love and friends, and create a beautiful heart for yourself or someone you love. You will have three different choices of what you would like to create- a large concrete 3D heart, which can be hung or laid on the ground in your garden, a flat heart to hang on a fence or wall, or a heart on a rock. It depends on your skill level, your speed of working and where you intend to place your heart. We’ll work together to decide which would be best for you.
You will learn from my demonstration how to cast concrete in a mold to create your heart. I will be casting these ahead of time so they have the necessary amount of time to cure before working on the mosaic.
Other skills learned will be: glass cutting, adhesives used for outdoors, how to strengthen concrete, how to grout as well as how to strengthen the grout for outdoors.
We’ll be using lots of precut glass, ceramic tile, ball chain, metal beads, millefiore and colored and silver mirror. I will have some premade designs available for those who may want some direction. If you have interesting fun things that can be included in your design, please feel free to bring them.
Sunday will be grouting your pieces. You’ll learn how to grout and how to tint and how to make your grout more durable for the outdoors.
***Bring a lunch and a reusable water bottle-or there are two delis in the neighborhood for ordering salads and sandwiches.
***Wear old clothes or bring an apron.
***No fragrances of any kind please due to some people having allergies.

Tuesday Morning Classes- February 11th
2020-02-11 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes February 4th
2020-02-04 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes January 28
2020-01-28 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Two Day Clay Making Extravaganza Jan 25 and Feb. 1
2020-01-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Don’t miss out on this super fun class. On day one, Jan 25, we will begin with a field trip to see a couple of installations I have done for clients here in my neighborhood. Each of them have quite a bit of handmade tile as well as hand built realistic objects and many other examples of how I use my clay creations in my mosaics. After the field trip, I’ll demonstrate how to construct a variety of the objects – realistic work as well as abstract pieces. Methods covered will include hand formed pieces as well as stamped and rolled designs. In addition, I will go over methods for handling the clay, the drying process, and some of the logistics for loading and firing the kiln.
On day two, February 1, I will explain the glazing process, you’ll look at all the test tiles, choose your glazes and then spend the day glazing your work. ***Pickup of glazed work will be at a later date after the firing.

***Wear old clothes or bring an old shirt or an apron to protect your clothes.
***Bring a lunch or buy it at our local deli. And please bring a refillable water bottle.
***No fragrances please as we have people with allergies. Thanks!

Joys of Summer

Mediterranean Sunset

completed sign

Tuesday Morning Classes January 21
2020-01-21 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
