Hand Blown Glass

Hand Blown Glass is a truly unique from of art. Expert glass blowers are able to create spectacular items with vivid detail and color. Items that are made using a glass blowing technique include, platters, ornaments, animal figurines, Christmas tree ornaments, vases, bowls, flowers, paperweights, beads and much more.

This form of art dates back to 100BC whe the Romans were believed to be able to mould molten substances using a blower into vessels. Centuries later, the Babylonians improved this technique by using a long metal tube and blowing molten substances into bottles or drinking glasses.

It wasn't until 1920 that press moulds were invented and all of the hard work was taken out of glass blowing. New items were created, thanks to the press mould but traditional glass blowing is still being used today. The technique of glass blowing has improved 10 fold and items are being created that look stunning in any decor.

• Gather glass from the furnace.
• Shape the glass into the desired product shape.
• Blow into your tube. The moten glass will gather the blown air and expand due to the heat.
• Place more glass around the bubble.
• Shape and inflate some more.
• Add a neckline and flatten the bottom.
• Depending on your creation, you may have to add a lip.
• Place your item into annealer for slow cooling.

When you think of the word "platter", most people think of a serving dish full of food at a party. The hand blown platters look fantastic as a feature on your wall in your living room. Each and every platter is unique and comes in a wide range of colors that suit any decor.

You can find more about these hand blown glass platters here.

Creating hand blown glass items is a very interactive process. If you wish to find out more about blowing glass and view some videos, you can check out theses online demonstrations.

Things you may need!

• A furnace - capable of reaching temperatures of 2000 plus.
• A glory hole
• An annealer
• Hand tools such as jacks, tongs, shears etc.
• A steel table to shape the glass.
• Glass
• Puntil and blowpipe
• A blow torch

If you would like to find out more about this amazing craft, visit http://www.buy-handblownglass.com