Affinity Studios, Naperville

Every visitor to Affinity Studios' glass workshops needs only two things: goggles and an imagination. The studio provides the first—as well as all the other necessary tools and materials—while students voice the latter with their own jewelry, mirrors, and dishes, learning to fuse, cut, blow, bend, and solder to their hearts' content. Those who are already seasoned in the glass arts can enjoy independent work time in the studio, whereas those looking for a chance to cut a cake with a blowtorch can have their birthday party there.

Attached to the studio is the Affinity boutique. Clad in serene blues and peppered with glass display cases, the shop is stocked with materials and original art, including jewelry, stained-glass panes, and ceramics made in-house by veteran craftspeople.