Marsha Rafter

Tuesday Morning Classes in Marsha's Studio- March 10
2020-03-10 10:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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.

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

Two Day Clay Making Extravaganza- Jan 18 & Feb 1
2020-01-18 10:00 - 16:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity! On day one, Jan 18, 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, hand built realistic objects and many other examples of how I use my clay creations in my mosaics. After the field trip, I will demonstrate how to construct a variety of these pieces including 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!

Nancys Macaw

Make a Joyful Noise

Lotus Reflections in Blue

Mediterranean Sunset

Tuesday Morning Classes January 14
2020-01-14 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.
*Please refrain from wearing any kind of frangrance due to allergies.

Tuesday Morning Classes - January 7th
2020-01-07 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.

re in the studio.

Tuesday Morning Classes - Dec. 10
2019-12-10 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 provide all 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.

Tuesday Morning Classes - Dec. 3
2019-12-03 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- Nov. 26
2019-11-26 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. Most projects take two class periods to complete, however, if I know you only intend to come one time, there are projects available that can be completed in one class session.
Class sizes vary, but I always provide all 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.

Tuesday Morning Classes- Nov. 19
2019-11-19 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

3D Mosaic Cactus Sculpture
2019-11-15 10:00 - 2019-11-17 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
November 15, 16, 17
10:00-5:00
In this class you’ll be learning techniques for how to create a small cactus sculpture. On day one, you’ll be provided with a steel armature. My husband Mark will be making those ahead of time, but you will have the opportunity to watch him work as he demonstrates how he cuts them out and how he bends them.
Then you’ll be shown my process for how to build onto that to make the cactus more three dimensional using wedi board. You’ll learn how to use a jigsaw for cutting substrates yourself. Next you’ll begin selecting your mosaic tessarae and cutting glass.
Day two, you’ll work on your mosaic using the mesh technique.
Day three you’ll be attaching your work to the substrate. 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, you’ll be grouting at the end of the day.
*All materials will be provided which will include your steel armature, wedi board, thinset, grout, stained glass, iridescent glass, and mirror glass in a variety of colors. If you have specific colors of glass or anything else you want to add to your cactus, please feel free to bring it. If you own a jigsaw, bring it with you.
**It will be a full three days of creating and whereas you will have the opportunity to work on your mosaic, depending on how quickly you work, you may not have time to complete it.
Cost for the three days is $495.

Tuesday Morning Classes- Nov. 12
2019-11-12 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Mosaic Mini Totems- November 9th- Marsha's Studio
2019-11-09 10:00 - 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
November 9th
10:00-5:00

In this super fun class, you will be given a choice of a fish, a bird, a butterfly, or a heart for your totem. The class will begin with a demonstration of how to prepare the wedi board substrate to be weatherproof for displaying your totem outside. Then you will have the remainder of the day to mosaic and grout and you’ll leave with a finished project. Cost of the class includes a rock, which will be predrilled, a piece of pencil rod, and a variety of giant ceramic beads. You’ll be able to paint your beads whatever colors you choose. An wide variety of stained glass, precut glass shapes and ceramic tiles will be available for completing your mosaic piece.
**These photos are happy students with their work from a previous class.

Tuesday Morning Classes- Oct. 15th
2019-10-15 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- Oct. 8th
2019-10-08 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Mosaic Totems- October 5th- Marsha's Studio
2019-10-05 10:00 - 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
October 5th
10:00-5:00

In this super fun class, you will be given a choice of a fish a bird, a butterfly, or a heart for your totem. The class will begin with you learning how and preparing the wedi board substrate to be weatherproof for displaying outside. Then you will have the remainder of the day to mosaic and grout and you’ll leave with a finished project. Cost of the class includes a rock, which will be predrilled, a piece of pencil rod, and a variety of giant ceramic beads. You’ll be able to paint your beads whatever colors you choose. An wide variety of stained glass, precut glass shapes and ceramic tiles will be available for completing your mosaic piece.
**These photos are happy students with their work from a previous class.

Tuesday Morning Classes- Oct. 1st
2019-10-01 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- Sept. 24th
2019-09-24 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- Sept 10
2019-09-10 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- Sept. 3
2019-09-03 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- August 27th
2019-08-27 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- August 20th
2019-08-20 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
