I have been working with lead for about 10 years. I took one class and since have designed and built panels up to 30”x72”. I have learned a lot by trial and error and trial and success.

My first teacher said of lead accuracy, “solder will cover that up”. And “if it’s not hanging out side, you only need to glaze one side.”

I followed the solder suggestion but always glazed both sides. My accuracy was more of a “close enough” attitude

In my first hour at the Wabi-Sabi Workshops I learned more fine and enhanced skills for lead work and lifted my attitude toward the high craft and professionalism of lead work than in my first class and years of experience.

Michael brings, impressive knowledge, a caring attitude and a focus on mastery of precision. He holds in high regard the tradition of lead light workers that is hundreds of years old.

It was an honor to study under a Master Journeyman. And having such a warm human as a new friend is a treasure to savor.

See the line, Be the line, Become one with the line. This is what he teaches.

Forever grateful.

Joseph P. Murphy

Mike was kind enough to let me bring in my own design which looked simple on paper, but was WAY more complex than I was ready for. Mike patiently worked with me in helping to wrap many small pieces of glass, for them together perfectly and to complete everything in 3 days, a day longer than I'd expected. His knowledge and patience are inexhaustible. If you are fortunate to take his class, DO IT! You won't regret a moment!

Mike Dumond | North Carolina

This was a great experience and I feel so lucky that I was able to attend! Michael was an attentive and supportive instructor and this workshop has given me so much confidence moving forward in my stained glass journey. Thank you!

Anna Fisher | North Carolina

From the moment I arrived I felt like I was family. Mike and Cindi (and Pearl) made me feel like I was absolutely in the right place and at the right time. I felt like a human sponge, just soaking up all that he taught me. I am so thankful that his teaching style is hands on. He is so knowledgeable and so kind. He challenged me, for sure.

I learned a whole new way to create stained glass art. I had to work for it. It was two full days dedicated to getting every drop of wisdom that he offered. I had to think my every move…but it sure was worth it.

I was lucky to have a class mate that I had never met before. She was terrific and supportive and kind. Lots of laughs and we all had a great time.

This class offers more than I’d ever hoped. I will go back….believe it. But I’ll be practicing here in my studio…and when I feel REALLLLLY GOOD about leading…I’ll go back to soak up the finer aspects. I’ve joined the Facebook page and know I’m in good company. I’m an official Lead-Head….

Lynee' Walters | Indiana

If you love stained glass and you haven't done it in lead came, you have no idea what you're missing. Do yourself a favor and visit Michael Rievley At Wabi-Sabi Workshops . My friend Al and I drove around 8hrs one way. Well worth the effort.

Marc Kirk | Indiana

I highly recommend Wabi Sabi Workshops!

Working with Michael has been a truly amazing experience. Between his vast knowledge, lightning personality, encouragement and attention to detail he really made it easy to comprehend and succeed in my lead work.

Michael and his wife, Cindy, were very good hosts and always made me feel comfortable and at home at their home/workshop. Having worked with these wonderful people in such an encouraging environment has definitely sparked my interest in this craft. I'm looking forward to the classes I will be taking with Michael in the future!

Hannah Williams | North Carolina

Lou and I spent the last two days learning how to make lead came part of the artistry in a stained glass piece versus just the stuff that holds glass together. I chose what turned out to be a very beautiful, yet challenging pattern by Michal Adams. The piece is literally bursting with “swoops”.

I loved learning the technique from the master himself, Michael Rievley, at Wabi-Sabi Workshops in North Wilkesboro, NC. He and his wife, Cindy, are so helpful and welcoming! Plus, they have two awesome dogs! Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to improve their craftsmanship.

Terrie Cook | Virginia

We had a great weekend with Michael at Wabi-Sabi Workshops. He is extremely knowledgeable and shares that knowledge freely. Want your lead seams to look seamless? Michael’s your man. Need to know how to make multiple lines flow together? Michael will teach you how to “See the line. Be the line. Become one with the line.”
Highly recommend making time for a Wabi-Sabi workshop if you have even the slightest interest in lead light working. I’ll not go back to copper foil. I’m a convert for life.

Rebecca Schlieman | North Carolina

Michael is one of the best teachers you will ever find! I had a great time learning the tips and tricks, plus a lot of laughs. Schedule your classes you won't be sorry...........Thank you for everything Michael.

Ron Neary | North Carolina

Highly recommend! Michael is a talented artist and is generous in sharing his expertise with others. His skill along with his patience makes it an enjoyable learning experience. All of the family, including Cindy and sweet fur babies Yoda and Pearl make you feel welcome and at home. Be prepared for a fast paced 2 day workshop!

Lou Thompson | Virginia

I can't recommend this class highly enough! It was a truly special experience. Michael is a true expert in leadwork. He is a patient, generous and very effective teacher, who doesn't just tell you what to do, but shows HOW to do it and explains WHY to do it. The workshop is clean and spacious. He and Cindy (and furchildren Pearl and Yoda) are the most gracious and accommodating hosts, and made us feel so welcome and comfortable. I came into the class a lead novice, and left feeling truly confident in my ability to do leadwork! (No more copper foil for me - I'm a born-again leadhead now!) It was the most fun and exhausting weekend I have had in a long time, and I plan to come back for another class one day. If you have any interest in learning lead work, come to this class! You'll be glad you did!

Lois Perez | Virginia

The whole experience was fabulous and I learned so much! ….. Thank you so much Wabi Sabi Workshop for the opportunity, I'm definitely a leadhead now!

Kris McGowan | Ohio

My first leaded window! I learned sooo much with Wabi Sabi Workshops - lots of time and money saving secrets along with the techniques

Hannah Strunk | Georgia