How To Blow Glass

Glass blowing is a sensitive process that can end in total disaster with a single mistake. The primary material in glass blowing ? molten glass ? is very fragile and meticulous hands are needed to mold it into a beautiful work of art. Here are some glass blowing tips that will help you make the best glass art pieces.

Visualize your piece. Know the exact kind of piece you want to make and think about how you want the finished product to look like. Molding soft, molten glass may seem easy since you can always reheat it if you think you are not making positive progress while molding it. But repeatedly reheating glass can cost you a lot of time. With glass, you can?t have enough time to stare blankly while you decide on the shape and look you want ? the molten glass will cool down and crack.

? Decide on the type of glass you want to use. There are two types of glass: hard and soft. Soft glass is usually used to make glass beads and other decorative items. Hard glass is typically used to make durable items that can actually be used for specific purposes and that do not require ultra-sophisticated molding, like cups or vases. Also, different types of glasses react differently to heat. Some soften quicker than others.

? Be gentle. Molding molten glass can be very tricky since it easily transforms with every movement. Fluid motion and meticulous molding are important. If you are heavy-handed, you might want to practice a lot with molten glass on your marver.

For more glass blowing tips, read The Glass Blowing Bible.

Good luck!