Glass blowing is not something that can be self taught but it is a trade that takes an experienced artesian to teach you this craft. Besides this glassblowing is a very dangerous occupation for the novice as well as the experienced.  It requires several different furnaces and many specialized tools and of course some serious safety equipment. All of this combined with patience and attention to details is what makes glassblowers stand out in their field.

Glassblowing

Glass blowing starts by heating glass in a furnace until it becomes pliable enough to work with. When this is ready the blower dips the end of the blowpipe into the mixture. He gathers a blob of glass on the end of the pipe and starts to roll the glass on a marble or steel table. This begins to mold the piece of glass into the shape that the artist wants it.

During this process the glass starts to cool to a temperature where it won’t drip. The glassblower starts blowing into this pipe which creates a bubble at the end. More glass is added when this is done with the glassblower blowing constantly to shape the bubble some more.

While doing this he will use a variety of tools and molds to get the effect he’s looking for. To add color the artist dipped the hot glass on the end of the blower into colored crushed glass; during this process the blowing is stopped. When the desired shape is accomplished the piece is pretty much finished. However, it will have to be annealed which is placed in a cooling oven which cools it down slowly.

 Glassblowing is an ancient art and one that can bring much satisfaction to the one that learns this art well.  You have to remember that you will be dealing with temperatures that exceed 2000 degrees F so safety is always an issue.  It is best to be trained by a professional before spreading out on your own.