Guide Note
Glassblowing is the art of forming molten glass into a desired shape by blowing into the glass using a hollow steel tube. By alternately blowing specified amounts of air into the tube while continually rotating it and then shaping the glass with tools or by hand, the glassblower can create various glass dishes, sculptures, vessels or works of art. During the process, the glass is reheated several times in one of three large furnaces.
Fast Facts
- Glassblowers are also called "gaffers"
- Optimum glass blowing temperature: 1600–1900°F
- Glassblowers often work in pairs or teams
- Colors and dyes are added throughout the process
- Developed around 50 B.C. by the Phoenicians
- The process of glassblowing has changed little since its inception
Lampworking
Lampwokers use a smaller-scale version of glassblowing to produce a variety of glass items such as beads, artwork and scientific tools. Using a gas-fueled torch, lampworkers soften glass tubes and then blow into and hand shape them to achieve desired forms. The process is so named because early lampworkers used oil lamps to heat the glass tubes.
Disclaimer
Always learn the basics of glassblowing from a professional. The techniques are skills that can not be learned any other way.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from the intense heat and light created by the molten glass.
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