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Heart of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass is a West Virginia treasure that spans generations. Nothing symbolizes the state of West Virginia better or more beautifully than Blenko Glass. We will discuss current and former craftsmen and designers and how important it is that Blenko and West Virginia glass be appreciated and valued by the younger generation.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Blenko Glass In The Garden

Readers often ask if its OK to use Blenko in the outdoors.  Blenko Glass does not recommend  using Blenko outdoors.  However,  my parents have used Blenko Glass for bird feeders, bird baths, stepping stones,  flower pots etc for more than 30 years.   Until last year the total  loss due to ice was 2 ( both in the 82 snow storm),  6 pieces due to deer and dogs, and 10 pieces taken by a person with large purse during a Garden Tour. 
If purchasing Blenko made after 2005 - feel the glass - if its  not heavy,  then you will need to bring the glass inside for winter.  Last year I purchased two  of the $25 bowls ( heavy in dark green)  from the Gift Shop  both are on top of a 10 foot pole that contains bird house and bird feeder.  They are used by the Finches as a bird bath.   Both made it through this winter and I would expect they will last my life time.  Blenko Glass is handcrafted,  quality construction.  It is factory glass and was made to be used. 
Use your Blenko!  Use your Waterford Crystal , your silver.  Who is more important the people you eat and drink with daily - your family - your family of origin or the family you've made.  Value your friendships,  value yourself by surrounding yourself with hand crafted items. 

11 comments:

CPK.collectoroffineart said...

Can you provide photos of items appropriate for use in the garden?
Or item # from the online Blenko store.
Thank you.

CPK.collectoroffineart said...

Photos of the items in the garden? This would be helpful.

Anonymous said...

Last year we bought a 15 inch round slab of Blenko placed it on a pedestal added a stack bowl with
goop - a glue for glass.
We now have a bright beautiful
talk of the beach bird bath.
Go Blenko.
Our winters are not bad so
breakage was not an issue.
Overcoming fear was.
Thank you Glasslady

Anonymous said...

Hilary
Somedays you sound like a holy roller preacher.
Sam Tyree

Anonymous said...

PERSON WITH QUESTION ABOUT THE PLATES MADE BY ERNIE
TRY ERNGLASS.COM
google Ernie Downey
MOUNTAIN RITA

sweetdoc said...

love the clematis (sp)

Anonymous said...

Like CPK I would like to view examples.

alex said...

Glassdoc
More news of the Bithday event would be good
Photo of this vase
A reason to drive down to WV
What is your problem?
We need to see the vase. We need to have news of what Bayliss plans.
You mentioned other items being available for purchase
Photos of these also.
Did you read of Jeff Schaffers ( DC) death? We purchased some glass from the estate and it was mentioned he was a Blenko Project board member. Small world eh.

alex said...

Another question Glassdoc
will the garden at your Moms house be open during the WV Birthday event?
I'd like to take photos.

Anonymous said...

Still laughing out loud at this post.
You should write comedy.

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear of Jeff's death, I enjoyed our conference calls about blenko project. Sad very sad.
Paula B.