Whether you’re thinking of taking glass blowing classes or you simply want to restock your personal supplies, having the right glass blowing supplies can mean the difference between creating a truly beautiful piece and running out of a certain item when you need it the most. After all, given that glass blowing is such a time sensitive art, it is unlikely that you’ll have the chance to simply stop what you’re doing and run out to get more of what you need. Here are a few things to consider when buying glass blowing supplies.
Most glass blowing classes include many of the supplies with your fee. However, if you want to create a certain project, or you are taking a class that requires that you bring a few of your own supplies, it’s important to know what you need. This is particularly true when it comes to choosing the color and texture of your glass blown pieces. For example, some artist use powders for a consistent look, while others prefer using colored glass rods or ceramic pieces known as frit. Regardless of your choice, learning the advantages and effects of each of these types is an important part of creating truly unique pieces of art.
If you’re working on your own, it’s likely you’ll have a great number of glass blowing supplies to consider. For example, along with coloring supplies, There are shears, tweezers, crimps, molds, and others for shaping and molding. Torches are also an important part of glass blowing. When looking at these, it’s a good idea to make sure that you’re getting quality torch tips and repair kits as well as the torch itself. Doing so will do wonders for helping it to last much longer. Along with shaping tools, there are also pipes, punties, paddles, blocks, specialized tables, and more.
Finally, one of the most important glass blowing supplies would have to be your furnace. In many cases, glass blowers use a series of three furnaces: one for the initial heating of the glass, one for shaping and molding, and one for letting the finished creation gradually cool. Depending on the size and shape of the piece, the last process could take anything from a few hours to several days.
These basic glass blowing supplies are crucial for the creation of quality glass products. Whether you’re shaping test tubes or creating the latest in glass art, you can’t go wrong with having quality tools at your side. As you work more with glass blowing, you will gradually learn the subtle differences in brands and decide on an ideal type for you. Learn more about glass blowing supplies today!
