Marsha Rafter

3D Mosaic Cactus Sculpture November 2-5, 2023
2023-11-02 10:00 - 2023-11-05 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
November 2-5 10:00-5:00
Workshop Fee: $795
Location: My studio- Escondido, CA- (North San Diego County)
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 using a jigsaw, all the steps for applying alkali resistant fiberglass 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 and vast array of materials for mosaicking available in the studio.
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.
The cactus above was displayed in the San Diego Botanic Garden Sculpture Show in 2018. You will be making one that is approximately 20″ wide and 28″ tall and it will be in a red clay pot. Student work from previous workshops is below.
Instruction will be provided via 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, construction adhesive, thinset, grout, stained glass, iridescent glass, mirror in a variety of colors, and other precut glass and ceramic tiles. All tools needed are available for your use in my studio.
**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.
Breakfast goodies, tea and coffee will be served each morning. A healthy lunch will be provided and we’ll enjoy happy hour together to celebrate our progress at the end of each day.
Cost for the four days is $795.
I would prefer checks for this class. You may sign up by emailing- marsha@marsharafter.com stating your intent to participate and then sending a check to:
Marsha Rafter 28202 Burned Oak Terrace Escondido, CA 92026
You may email me with questions at marsha@marsharafter.com
*Prior mosaic experience is helpful, but not necessary.
Cancellation policy here: https://marsharafter.com/cancellation-policy

Tuesday Morning Classes - October 31, 2023
2023-10-31 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, and garden art pieces. This class is a combination of beginners as well as advanced students. 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. Mosaics 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 creating. 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.
Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $50.00 covers most materials. There is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.

Mosaic Mandalas
2023-10-28 10:00 - 17:00 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
Mosaic Mandalas
Saturday October 28, 10:00-5:00

Join me for my next mosaic mandala class here in my studio. This project is my all time favorite!
Your project will be completed from design to grout in one day and you’ll leave with a beautiful 12″ mandala, complete with a hanger, ready to brighten a garden wall or an interior space. You may choose from several different mandala patterns and there will be an abundance of glass gems, stained glass, and mirror glass to complete the project.
The cost of the class is $175.00 which includes all materials and supplies and the use of all my tools and equipment.
*I always have a selection of my handmade ceramic tile pieces for you to choose from to add to your mandala. Each piece is unique and is priced based on design and complexity.
* Please note that there are no cancellations within seven days of the class, however a credit for a future class will be given unless it within forty eight hours of the class. Cancellations with forty eight hours of the class will not receive credit or a refund.

Tuesday Morning Classes - October 3, 2023
2023-10-03 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- September 26. 2023
2023-09-26 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- September 19, 2023
2023-09-19 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- September 12, 2023
2023-09-12 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- September 5, 2023
2023-09-05 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - July 25th, 2023
2023-07-25 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- July 18th, 2023
2023-07-18 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - July 11th, 2023
2023-07-11 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - June 20th, 2023
2023-06-20 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - June 13, 2023
2023-06-13 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Mosaic Mandalas at the Center for Creative Renewal June 10, 11 2023
2023-06-10 09:00 - 2023-06-11 17:00 | CA
Mosaic Mandalas
Saturday June 10, 9:00-5:00
Sunday June 11, 9:00-3:00

Join me for my next mosaic mandala class at the Center for Creative Renewal in Cardiff, CA. This project is my all time favorite! And Ellen’s incredibly beautiful garden at the Center is one of my favorite places to teach this class. Ellen will provide a lovely breakfast for us upon arrival at 9:00 which always includes her wonderful fresh baked pound cake, fruit from her garden and fresh hardboiled eggs from her chickens.
Your project will be completed from design to grout over the two days and you’ll leave with a beautiful 16″ mandala, complete with a hanger, ready to brighten a garden wall or an interior space. You may choose from several different mandala patterns and there will be an abundance of glass gems, stained glass, and mirror glass to complete the project.
*Registration is through the Center’s website http://www.artretreats.com/events/mosaic-mandalas. The cost of the class is $350.00 which includes a $100 materials fee.
*I always bring a selection of my handmade ceramic tile pieces for you to choose from to add to your mandala. Each piece is unique and is priced based on design and complexity.

Tuesday Morning Classes - June 6, 2023
2023-06-06 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- May 2, 2023
2023-05-02 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- April 25, 2023
2023-04-25 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- April 18, 2023
2023-04-18 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- April 11, 2023
2023-04-11 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- April 4, 2023
2023-04-04 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- March 28, 2023
2023-03-28 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, and garden art pieces. This class is a combination of beginners as well as advanced students. 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. Mosaics 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.
Email me – marsha@marsharafter.com, call, or text 530-277-5494 with questions.
*The cost of $50.00 covers most materials. There is an extra fee for hardware or large substrates.

Tuesday Morning Classes -March 21, 2023
2023-03-21 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Hacienda Mosaico Retreat- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico March 12-18th, 2023
2023-03-12 17:00 - 2023-03-18 11:00 | Hacienda Mosaico, Puerta Vallarta, Mexico
Mosaic Jewelry for Your Door
March 12-18, 2023
Arrival day and Welcome Happy Hour is Sunday
Workshop is Monday-Friday
Depart on Saturday

I am so excited to be returning to teach in the most beautiful, inspiring, and relaxing environment of Hacienda Mosaico.
During this five day mosaic workshop, you’ll learn all the skills needed to create exterior mosaics with a focus on embellishing doorways. We’ll begin with learning a variety of ways to approach the design and then you’ll learn two different methods for applying your design onto the wall. Interior wall application will be discussed as well.
We’ll be working as a team to surround the entry doorway of the Hacienda as well as entrances to individual rooms. Transforming a doorway is magical and it’ll be a super fun experience to see what you can do in your own personal environment to add life to your wall with texture and color. Included in the workshop will be making ceramic tiles which we’ll fire and incorporate into the mosaics.
This workshop is open to students of all levels. Although some mosaic experience may be helpful, it is not necessary. Should you prefer to bring your own mosaic project idea to work on for the week, that is fine. We will work together ahead of time to discuss your ideas and vision and to assure that you have what you need while there.
Students will need to bring their own tools – a full list with links to purchase will be sent out before the workshop.
Optional workshop activities include:
An after class/ evening session for students to share images of their own work.

Workshop Fee: $2,195 (based on double occupancy)
Workshop fee includes 5 days instruction, 6 nights of lodging, delicious breakfasts and lunches on workshop days and unlimited use of the studio 24/7. Instructor will provide appropriate adhesives and a wide variety of mosaic materials. Students are asked to contribute materials for any individual pieces and must bring their own mosaic hand tools.
A 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot.
Marsha Rafter is accepting payment for this workshop, via venmo, bank wire or check.
Contact instructor for details.
Students are invited to a Hacienda hosted welcome reception on Sunday evening, March 12th. During our week together there will be tons of learning as well as free time to explore Puerto Vallarta, shop or relax. After dinner each evening we offer optional instructor supervised open studio.
Students depart Saturday, March 18th.
I hope you will join me for this immersive creative experience!
Trip insurance is strongly advised.

About the Hacienda… a magical corner of the world. This walled garden hacienda with swimming pool and inviting common areas is artist owned and operated. Art abounds! The accommodations are excellent and every room is uniquely decorated and comfortable. Meals are prepared poolside in an open air kitchen and every meal is a feast. The Hacienda is located in a family friendly residential neighborhood. A quick and inexpensive taxi ride gets you to the beaches and wonderful shopping, art galleries, restaurants and nightlife. Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful and friendly beach resort.
Location:
The beach is within walking distance and the swimming pool is steps away from your door. Hacienda Mosaico’s garden paradise is very private and filled with lush tropical plants and colorful artwork created by artists and workshop participants from all over the world. The town of Puerto Vallarta has interesting shops, restaurants, galleries. The charm and beauty of Mexico is just waiting for you to explore!
**Dinner options abound with many delicious and internationally varied choices within walking distance of Hacienda Mosaico. Puerto Vallarta is an easy cab or even bus ride away where there are more wonderful choices.
There is also a fully equipped kitchen onsite and grocery stores within walking distance.
We often combine the weekly “Gallery Stroll” with a group dinner at a beach side restaurant!
2023 Workshop Price is $2195.00 which includes 5 days instruction, 6 nights lodging, and two delicious meals beautifully presented and served poolside each day. There is a Welcome Happy Hour Sunday evening with abundant hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
Fees for this workshop are handled by me directly. A 50% deposit of $1100 secures your spot, with payment in full due January 15, 2023.
Please pay by check or Venmo for this class.
You can mail your deposit or full payment to:
28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA 92026
Hacienda Mosaico and Marsha Rafter Mosaics combined cancellation policy:
– All cancellations are subject to a $50.00 processing fee.
– Reservations cancelled prior to 60 days,will receive full refund of fees paid, less $50.00 processing fee.
– Cancellations 60-30 days prior to workshop will receive credit in the amount paid for future workshops less $50.00 processing fee – good for one calendar year.
– Cancellations less than 30 days prior to workshop will not receive a refund of any fees paid or a credit for future workshops.
Should any workshop/retreat be canceled by Hacienda Mosaico or Marsha Rafter Mosaics, the entire amount paid will be refunded within fourteen days after cancellation.
Once this occurs, Hacienda Mosaico nor Marsha Rafter Mosaics have no obligation regarding any additional costs or fees related to the issuance and/or cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations.
Hacienda Mosaico or Marsha Rafter Mosaics accepts no liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket. Nor does it accept liability for canceled flights.
Travel Insurance:
– It is strongly recommended that all workshop participants purchase Trip Cancellation, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Baggage, Accident and Medical insurance from a reputable insurance company.
– Travel Insurance 101: How to Protect Your Vacation. This ‘plain language’ tutorial will explain travel insurance so you can easily find the right plan: https://www.travelinsurancereview.net/beginners-guide/
– Some more good links to review: www.travelinsured.com or www.travelsafe.com
https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/travel-insurance/
A note about accommodations: Rooms are double occupancy and pricing is based on such. If you have a roommate request we are happy to accommodate. We can not guarantee a single room. Know all rooms are spacious and have en suite bathrooms. 9o% of our students are female. If you are the only male student, and we are sold out, we will house you at a neighboring property (a small, private apartment that shares a wall with the Hacienda). There is no additional charge for this space. You will have 24 hour access to the Hacienda property and studio, and have breakfast and dinner along with the other students.

Me at the entrance to the Hacienda

Happy Campers

Mosaic bench downtown

Teresa and her butterfly

Nancy working on her bird

Pam working on the top of her totem

Gina and her mosaic watering can

The gang from 2019

Mary and the cylinder of magnificence

Fran and her heart for her totem

fran and her totem

Kathy and her turtle

Lori and her totem

Jorge, our chef, and his beautiful presentation for lunch

delicious and abundant food

Salads at every meal

The seafood is so fresh

A beach walk at sunset

Tuesday Morning Classes - March 7, 2023
2023-03-07 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- February 28, 2023
2023-02-28 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes - February 21, 2023
2023-02-21 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- February 14, 2023
2023-02-14 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States

Tuesday Morning Classes- February 7, 2023
2023-02-07 10:00 - 12:30 | CA

Mini Totems at the San Diego Botanic Garden- February 4, 2023
2023-02-04 10:00 - 17:00 | San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA, 92024, United States
In 2019, I created a series of totems, including the monarch totem here, which was created for the San Diego Botanic Garden “Sculpture in the Garden” Show. In addition, I taught classes at Hacienda Mosaico in Puerto Vallarta and at the Austin Mosaic School in Austin, Texas on how to build your own garden totem. Both classes were very successful so I decided to teach a class for creating a mini totem for your garden. This class will be very different construction from the large totems and will be a project you can complete in a day as you will be mosaicking just the top piece.
Using a rock as the base, you will have a center pole to build on and you will be mosaicking a whimsical bird, fish, butterfly or heart for the top using stained glass, mirror glass, ceramic tiles, glass gems, millefiori and my own handmade tiles. This will be a lovely addition to your garden or patio. Come join the fun!
Register online through the San Diego Botanic Garden’s website beginning in January:
https://sdbg.org/classes-tours-children-activities/

Tuesday Morning Classes- January 31, 2023
2023-01-31 10:00 - 12:30 | Marsha’s Studio, 28202 Burned Oak Terrace, Escondido, CA, 92026, United States
