Some Common Sense Glassblowing Tips

So, you want to get into glassblowing. Well, before you venture into this fascinating art, there are a few things that you’ll want to know. Yes, there are some dangers involved but for the most part, these dangers are blown out of proportion and most accidents happen because of unskilled workers, poor working conditions or simple carelessness. If you go about your job methodically and carefully, you should have no problems. Okay, now some common sense tips that you should follow.

Tip number one is simple. Prepare for the worst but hope for the best. That means have a first aid kit handy. If you’re careful, burns and cuts are not likely, but they do occur. You want to make sure that you have a first aid kit handy that is specifically put together to handle these burns and cuts. Again, if you’re careful, you should be fine.

Tip number two may seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many people don’t do this. Make sure that you’ve planned out your project in advance. What kind of glass are you going to be working with? You’re going to need specific tools depending on the glass used. You want these tools all laid out in advance.

Tip number three is to know your glass. Know how each one is going to react under certain conditions. No, not all glass is the same and each one WILL react differently. You better know how in advance or you’re in for some shocking surprises once you get started.

Tip number four is to practice simple things first. For example, practice joining two pieces of glass together. This is a fairly simply process. However, if you can’t get this much down right, there is no point in going onto something more complex. Get the basics down first.

Tip number five…do NOT ever saw glass. It will not break easily. You want to use a file or tungsten carbide knife for cutting your glass. These work much better.

There is plenty more to know. Below, there is a great resource for learning how to blow glass. I think you will find it most helpful.

Glassblowing Bible