Don't love it

Glass is ever a humbling medium.

There are countless ways a piece can go wrong before it goes in the annealing oven. In the safety of the annealing "box," unseen stresses on your glass or a piece near it can cause damage. Once it's finished and out in the world, glass is fragile no matter how sturdy I try to make it. And just when you're feeling confident in your process, gremlins attack "the box" and an evening's work on vases results in puddles of glass.

Will have to try these again next time.

 

Team sport

At least once a day when I'm at a market with my glass I'm asked whether, "I made all this." The simple response is, "Yes." The longer answer is that the style of glassblowing I practice is a team sport.

One person is in charge of the piece--deciding what they will make, what color it will be, what shape it will become, what steps will be taken to get there and who (if anyone) will assist them in making it. I do make each of the pieces I sell, but for most of them I have a partner in creation. He helps me strategize and consider options on how best to bring a vision to life in glass, and helps with a myriad of the steps along the way in the actual creation. Those who have watched glassblowers at work often describe it as a well choreographed dance.

Leo is my partner in the dance of glassblowing. See how he translates his visions to glass.

Save the Date: December Community Craft Party

I was going to switch up the theme for our next Craft Party, but honestly, sharing a message of love with the community seems more important then ever now.

So, please save the date for December 10 and join us to craft up some love! Bonus: this party takes place during the annual Holiday Sale at DC GlassWorks (which is the studio we call home), so you'll be able to meet a great community of artists and shop blown glass bowls, vases, sculpture, ornaments and lots more.

Details:

When: December 10, 1:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: 5346 46th Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20781

What we're crafting:
We'll be making tiny affirmations as seen in the "You Are So Very Beautiful" Craftivism project. Use the supplies of your choice to craft a palm size message that begins with the words, "You Are" and includes the hashtag #YASVB on the back. No prior crafting experience needed! Tools and supplies will be provided, but you're also welcome to bring supplies to use or to share.

Searching for the wonder

Wunder Birds weren't originally on my "to make" list this week, but I felt the need to expand the flock.