View Full Version : Looking to get into glass blowing.
nibs208
01-12-2010, 05:41 PM
I'm a senior in high school and about to make my way into the world. I love glass and would like to try my hand at it. What would you guys recommend as a first step for some one who has absolutly 0 experience (not even 1 second behind a torch) and no tools? I live in the Seattle area, are there any talented blowers in this area who would be willing to teach me the basics (for a fee of course)? I know there are schools like Pilchuck but that's 3k for a course and don't have that kind of cash.
also what tools/equipment would i need to get started, recommended torches and kilns?
Big Jay
01-12-2010, 05:56 PM
I live in the Seattle area, are there any talented blowers in this area who would be willing to teach me the basics (for a fee of course)? I know there are schools like Pilchuck but that's 3k for a course and don't have that kind of cash.
also what tools/equipment would i need to get started, recommended torches and kilns?
what type of glass blowing are you interested in? You want to work in a hot shop or on a torch? THere are tons of talented artists in your area but some make beads, some make pipes, some make bracelets, some make goblets, etc.. You have to know what you want before anyone can help.
Same goes for equipment.
Emmett's Glass
01-12-2010, 06:30 PM
Did you look into Pratt? www.pratt.org
I can go over some stuff with you if you can get out to Monroe (45 min NE)
E
bzglass
01-12-2010, 06:40 PM
Find someone who is willing to teach you. If he/she is doing what you are interested in learning, then work out some kind of deal with that person. You will learn a lot more, and faster, working alongside other talented glass blowers, than you ever would by just trying to learn everything by yourself. It might cost you money to get started, but glass blowing is a very expensive craft. Whatever you do with glass, be prepared to spend a lot of money!
There is a lot to learn here on the pot as well. Use the search at the top of the page to explore what things you will need to get started. There are tons of threads here, that will describe in detail all you need to know to get started.
The Madhatter
01-12-2010, 06:47 PM
You have to know what you want before anyone can help.
Dude, that should pop up every time someone new makes an attempt at a first post in here. You know, modify the software to check if it's a first post, and if it is have that message pop up followed by an option to proceed or go back to the forum and read some of the previous posts... :crazy:
Big Jay
01-12-2010, 07:27 PM
I can go over some stuff with you if you can get out to Monroe (45 min NE)
E
way to go E. There you go nibs208, Emmett knows whats what and won't steer you wrong.
nibs208
01-12-2010, 07:52 PM
Well I'd like to learn to blow pipes and tubes eventually so i think that would be be lampworking right? what is a "hot shop"? Emmett i was looking at your website and it was looking pretty good. monroe is no sweat for me. I'll have to get some $ first, still being in school kind of makes that aspect a little hard. hopefully i will have employment soon. sorry to be a total novice.
Emmett's Glass
01-12-2010, 08:03 PM
Sounds good nibs208 hit me up when you're ready.
E
Big Jay
01-12-2010, 08:13 PM
Well I'd like to learn to blow pipes and tubes eventually so i think that would be be lampworking right? what is a "hot shop"? .
yeah pipes = lampworking and boro. Hot shop is soft glass pulled out of a furnace.
In the meantime you should beg , borrow or whatever to get the money for these books. http://www.waleapparatus.com/catalog.asp?prodid=547857&showprevnext=1 . It'll answer pretty much any question you'll have before you start your adventure, definetly all the questions you have once you start and a great reference throughout your hobby/career.
Best of luck !
the LIBRARY can be a great source for books, if short on money! our little library has BANDU DUNHAMS lampworking book it is GGggggrrrreat , now days with interlibrary loan system you could get some lampworking material and read it well, then you could learn more and maybe ask more informed questions when around people with lots of experience. Its not neccasarry but reading could be a way to learn alot.... They also have dvd's and you can even see furnace style hot shops too! well I hope this helps you for more inspiration in this 4 thousand years old tradition we are continuing and I really hope if you are serious you proceed.
thanks :-j
The Lorax
01-18-2010, 06:45 AM
i was in your place a few years ago and now its my job and life...
http://www.talkglass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3870
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