Glassblowing Class

In an effort to explore our artistic side, Emily and I took a glassblowing class.  We really enjoyed it, and it really made us appreciate how hard it is to make good looking glass pieces.  I was surprised at how easily the molten glass flows while you are working it.  When I had observed other professionals doing it, they always made it look easy with their smooth spinning motions and gentle finesse.  The true art meets science in determining the correct balance between keeping the molten glass fluid enough to be workable while maintaining enough viscosity to keep its shape.  The ideal viscosity is somewhere between that of honey and warm taffy.  Keeping a constant, smooth rotation is vital to ensure the glass does not sag.  We also learned that it is important to work quickly, as the glass cools rapidly after being pulled from the oven.  Our teacher started the class by chugging a liter of water, and we soon found out why:  standing in front of a scorching oven for an hour can leave you very dehydrated!

Heating/Shaping:

Rolling in colored glass frit:

Melting the colored frit and blending color:

Adding more color:

Melting in color (again):

Stretching/rolling on table to create a swirl pattern of color:

Shaping:

Blowing:

 

Heating only the end of the sphere in preparation for final shaping:

 Final shaping is afforded by sucking in to implode the sphere, thus forming a double walled bowl:

 

 Adding a glob of clear glass to become the base of the bowl

After annealing for two days in the oven, we have our finished bowls:

One of the most impressive parts of this craft is how it stays true to its artisan heritage.  Aside from electric ovens, all of the tools remain the same as have been used for hundreds of years.  Wooden blocks and wet newspaper are key tools of the trade.  I am amazed that, with all the technology that surrounds us on a daily basis, these primitive materials and tools continue to dominate and prove to be the best at producing beautiful works of art that are truly timeless.

I only wish I had more time and artistic talent to pursue this as a hobby.  Perhaps after Emily is finished with her MBA, we will sign up for more classes?