Blenko Paperweights

Readers - You ask for Paper weight photos - when the photos of paper weights available (now) at Blenko arrive I'll post. These are available at Kissin Kate's - Tim didn't say, they are vintage but I know they are - notice the silver foil BLenko sticker. Thanks to Tim of Kissin Kate's for these photos. hjh

Hello Hillary,

In an earlier blog I promised pictures of paperweights made in WV. We have paperweights from Blenko, Hamon and Gibson. Attached are photos of the vintage Blenko paperweights we have. The conical-shaped ones are Blenko catalog #68A. The colors are wheat, olive green and turquoise. The cylindrical one is catalog #68D shown in wheat. Blenko made several others in this era that were round (68B,C and D). Today, these sell anywhere from $20 to $50 depending on color and condition.
I will send the Hamon and Gibson pics in another email.

Tim
Kissin Kates Antiques

www.blenkoproject.org

Interested in Blenko Glass? West Virginia Glass? Glassblowing?
Did you or your relative work at Blenko Glass or another WV Glass Company?
If so we need you - the blenko project - we need your story, your photos, and your help locating retired glass workers.
Learn about Blenko Glass visit www.blenkoproject.org

Master of Public Health -

Do you have a Master of Public Health? We're interested in learning more about Master of Public Health programs? If you currently enrolled or have completed a Master Of Public Health please email us at : theblenkoproject@aol.com

Black Friday - The sales start today.

Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com Outlet sale starts today. You'll want to attend, if you haven't signed up for the classes being offered we just heard there are some vacant spots.
You'll want to phone or go and ask for a place in one of the classes.
HJH

Blenko Holiday Outlet Sale - Mr. Bill and Walter Blenko Will Be available to Sign Your Purchase.

Having your glass signed, or gifting signed glass - the signature makes the purchase or gift more memorable.
At Blenko Glass during the Holiday Sale (check the website www.blenkoglass.com) Mr. Walter and Mr. Bill Blenko will be available to sign for several hours. There is no additional charge for having your purchase signed.

HJH

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Blenko Glass is closed today. We will open on Friday for the Holiday Outlet Sale.

Thanks to blog reader, Mr. Thoms for the Turkey image.

# 6732 Tangerine Available Charleston Estate

Heart of Glass and http://www.blenkoproject.org/ friend Ms. McGee wrote: : I'm a professional organizer in Charleston, WV and have recently completed an estate sale for a family here. I have a myers decanter that needs sold, and thought I'd offer it to collectors before we go public.

. Blog Readers who want to add this one to their personal collection, might contact her.

Mrs. Mc Ghee wrote:
Hilary -

Here's some information about it:
We deleted the description as it was a cut and paste from another website - taken without permission .
XXXXXXX.. . . . . . are offering this lovely Blenko balustrade decanter for sale for $1,200 or best offer. It is stunning. The reason it is only $1,200 ( 1,000 lower than our only known competitor) is that it has a small flaw and repair, that is only noticeable on very close inspection, in the stopper. The decanter itself is in excellent condition. In Person viewing can be arranged before purchase or more photographs. For more information contact Rita McGhee at (304) 206-8144 or ritamcghee@sortmyspace.com

Thanks for your help
Rita M.

$20 and under? BLENKO GLASS Outlet Sale

New Item

and its $20.

Finding gifts , no finding a perfect gift for $20 and under w e l l it

is almost impossible.

This year - Blenko is announcing the creationof a minature snowman! You'll want to get a dozen.

Compliment your collection of snowmen with our NEW festive miniature snowmen. Approx. 3" High.
Price: $ 20.00
S & H not included

Harzfield's Kansas City

Hello,
I thought I would share this page for our soon-to-be published book on Harzfeld's, Kansas City based a specialty store. Please feel free to use the ad on your blog if you wish.
Best to you,
Joe Boeckholt
http://harzfelds.blogspot.com/

Harzfeld’s advertisement featuring Blenko Glass from Milton, West Virginia. Blenko
diversified from sheet glass into vases during the Depression, and by the end of World War
II it had expanded its line of items and ramped up production to meet consumer demand.
Fashionable, branded items such as Russel Wright dinnerware and Jensen silver were also
popular gift items. Numerous unbranded gift and decorative items were also offered to
customers. Courtesy of The Independent, May 22, 1948.

Blenko's HOLIDAY SALE

Readers - I sent your questions to Blenko. Ms. K. Trippe response is below.
Should you have additional questions about the Blenko Holiday Sale (1) check their website (2) phone the Visitors Center 304 743 9081 (3) then you may email theblenkoproject@aol.com . Blenko wants to keep you informed.
Katie Trippe VP of Blenko Glass writes:
First, I have attached photos of some of the pieces that will be on sale at the VC after thanksgiving. There are Limited Edition Shop Designs which are labeled by shop and will be limited to a quantity of 20 each design. We have new miniature snowmen which are 3" high compared to the regular 5" high. We have two designs the Christmas angel and first snow basket by Retired Craftsman Les Womack which are limited to a quantity of 50 each. There are new Limited Edition ornaments and new necklaces. I will also attach our ad which will be running on the 22nd in the Herald Dispatch. It will have a coupon. Pink Ice is also back in new designs and it is shown on the Hot sheets.

Second, The Antique Department is not closed and there are no plans to close the department. We have a lot of sheet glass and dalles in stock in a wide variety of colors.

Third, Mr. B and Walter will both be signing glass. Mr.. B will be signing on Friday the 27th from 10am to Noon and Walter will be signing Friday from 1pm to close and Saturday 9am to Noon. Mr.. B is doing as well as he can be and he is still in good spirits with his sense of humor intact!

I will get you photos as soon as possible of the inside of the VC. You should be able to pull any photo off the website that you need by right clicking and saving the photo to your desktop. Let me know if this doesn't work and you can e-mail at any time for any photo. I am never to busy to make sure your project succeeds.

Smoking Major Risk Factor for Periodontal Disease

Hillary
Does Blenko plan to make ashtrays in the near future? We are starting a collection, of ash tray and cigarette cigar lighters from American makers, not pressed but hand blown.
In my last visit to Blenko Glass, I noticed a good number of men smoking tobacco. Is this common amongst glassblowers? Does Blenko have any tobacco free zones?
I also noticed the restaurant workers and hotel workers seem to have bad teeth. Is there no state wide education program in your state?
Geog D.
Geog,
Blenko no longer makes ash trays or cigarette lighters. Now to address your other comments:
Mr. WH Blenko encourages all employees to live and enjoy a tobacco free life.
You neglected to say how much you enjoyed your visit to our State, I hope your hotel and restaurant were satisfactory. My friend Kathy Elkins from WV Health Dept states, "WV has the 3rd highest number of smokers'. Geog your observation was good. We (State of WV) are trying to improve.
http://www.wvdtp.org/ has implemented a very successful Stop Smoking program.
Delta Dental http://www.deltadental.com/
(WV primary dental insurance carrier ) had the following to say about Tobacco use in West Virginia.
Tobacco use is a major risk factor for periodontal disease. A smoker's risk of developing periodontal disease is increased anywhere from 2 to 10 percent, depending on the amount that person smokes.
 A person’s genetics can amplify or reduce the severity of periodontal disease. High production levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1) – which indicate that people may be more susceptible to severe periodontal disease – run in families. A genetic test now can determine if a person has this genetic marker, and this knowledge could provide further information about a patient's prognosis.
 Eighteen percent of all pre-term, low-birth-weight births may be attributable to periodontal disease.
 People with severe periodontal disease may be twice as likely to have the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries as those with good oral health.
 People with severe periodontitis may be more than six times as likely to have poor glycemic control as those without periodontal disease.
 Decreased bone mineral density and osteoporosis appear to be related to tooth loss. Hormone replacement there
The Public Health Corp website states: http://www.usphs.gov/
Tobacco use is a major risk factor for periodontal disease. A smoker's risk of developing periodontal disease is increased anywhere from 2 to 10 percent, depending on the amount that person smokes.
 A person’s genetics can amplify or reduce the severity of periodontal disease. High production levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1) – which indicate that people may be more susceptible to severe periodontal disease – run in families. A genetic test now can determine if a person has this genetic marker, and this knowledge could provide further information about a patient's prognosis.
 Eighteen percent of all pre-term, low-birth-weight births may be attributable to periodontal disease.
 People with severe periodontal disease may be twice as likely to have the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries as those with good oral health.
 People with severe periodontitis may be more than six times as likely to have poor glycemic control as those without periodontal disease.
 Decreased bone mineral density and osteoporosis appear to be related to tooth loss.
Geog
We know there is a problem. Its a national problem.
Thank you for the opportunity to bring awareness to the need for a tobacco free WV and the need for affordable dental care for everyone.
Good Luck with your collection of ash trays and lighters.
HJH

Black Friday at Blenko Gass (Outlet Sale)

This 'new' Les Womack angel in Christmas colors is available only at the visitors center . She won't be available until Black Friday- Blenko Glass will start their annual Holiday Sale on Black Friday - you should not miss this outlet sale. www.blenkoglass.com

All of the colors of Christmas are highlighted in this handcrafted angel. Limited to 50 numbered pieces. Each piece is signed by retired master craftsman Les Womack.
Price: $ 55.00
S & H not included

Note: webmaster Steve tells me Black Friday means many different things - we are referring to the friday after Thanksgiving!

Black Friday may refer to:
Friday the 13th, any day when the 13th day of the month is a Friday.
Black Friday (shopping), day after Thanksgiving Day
Black Friday (partying), last Friday before Christmas
Good Friday, the Friday preceding Easter Sunday
Black Friday bushfires, a day of devastating bushfires in Victoria, Australia
Black Friday (1940 film), American film starring Boris Karloff
"Black Friday Rule", a song by Flogging Molly
"Black Friday", a 1975 song by Steely Dan on the album Katy Lied
"Black Friday", a song by Megadeth
Black Friday (2004 film), Indian film about 1993 Bombay Bombings
Black Friday (album), 2004 album by Indian Ocean
Wall Street Crash of 1929 at the New York Stock Exchange
Thanks to webmaster Steve for the links from web to other articles about Black Friday!

West Virginia Glass

Hilary,

This is for the man who wrote asking what to do in WV. The State of WV has a website and glass arts is a link I'm sending you the text for publication. Fenton is the only WV glass I collect, but must acknowledge the photos on your blog should come with a warning "glass may be more beautiful in photo....."

Alice H.

Our state’s many glass companies further illustrate the idea that beauty and utility need not be opposing ideals. From window glass and simple green glass bottles to the sophisticated art glass of today, more than 500 factories have manufactured glass in West Virginia throughout the state’s history. West Virginia was attractive to glass manufacturers because it offered great quantities of silica sand, stone and other chemical compounds necessary to produce glass and vast reserves of natural gas for fuel. The state’s natural reserves, paired with its network of rivers and railroads for the transportation of raw materials and finished wares, made West Virginia an ideal location to spawn the glass industry.

Fenton Art Glass, the largest handmade colored glass manufacturer in the United States, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2005. This family-owned Williamstown facility has a gift shop and museum, and offers free tours featuring glassblowers at work.

Note: Alice, Glass is difficult to photograph, if you like Blenko Glass in photos, visit the factory you'll fall in love with Blenko Glass.

Letter from Katie Trippe about HOLIDAY OUTLET SALE

All Specialty Items can be purchased at the Blenko Visitor Center Store starting November 27th, 2009 and by phone at (877) 425-3656 starting November 30th, 2009. All specialty items are available only while supplies last. Shipping and Handling are not included in the price of the pieces.

New!!! Miniature Snowmen Compliment your collection of snowmen with our NEW festive miniature snowmen. Approx. 3" High. Price: $ 20.00 S & H not included Limited Edition Nembered Ornaments Left: 1st in "West Virginia Seasons" Series. Hand painted on a crystal ornament the historic covered bridge is reflected in a snowflake creating a beautiful winter scene. Only 50 available. Right: 2nd Edition Winter Series "Skiing Snowman". This hand painted cheerful snowman is skiing down the slopes in his full winter attire on this electric blue ornament. Only 100 available. Price: $ 50.00 Stand Included S & H not included Christmas Angel All of the colors of Christmas are highlighted in this handcrafted angel. Limited to 50 numbered pieces. Each piece is signed by retired master craftsman Les Womack. Price: $ 55.00 S & H not included

Pink Ice is back in all NEW designs for the Holiday Season. These pieces will go on sale November 27th and will be available for phone order November 30th while supplies last. We would like to thank you for your continued support. We wish you a Happy Holiday Season, Merry Christmas and safe travels. Sincerely, Katie Trippe Blenko Glass Company (304) 743-9081

Debra Novak - Blenko Retro

Hillary
Recently I bought all the Blenko Glass films. The one I like best was directed by Debra Novak when did she leave Blenko Glass? Was she involved with other Blenko films? If so can you provide me with the names and contact to order?
What did Novak do after Blenko? Was she the artist in residence?
Karen Miller

Karen,
I wrote to Blenko about this - as I'm not certain but I think Novak was never a Blenko Glass employee. She is an outstanding WV film maker. She most often works with John Witek.
Perhaps some Huntington reader will have more information. I've been trying for over a year to replace my copy of the Novak/Witek Blenko Film -may I ask where you bought the film?
HJH
The following information was obtained from the West Virginia Divison of Culture - Film Office.

Blenko Retro - Three Designers of American Glass120 min. 2001 South Carolina ETVJohn Witek and Deborah Novak produced this colorful, award-winning documentary as a follow-up to their earlier film Hearts of Glass about the flamboyant and wildly creative glass produced by Blenko Glass of Milton, Cabell County. In the years following World War II, the family-owned Blenko Glass Company hired a series of three designers who later became world-famous, both for their glass designs and for their other design work. Their West Virginia glass pieces were considered some of the most creative in the world during the 1950's, '60's, and '70's, and this video provides insight into both the creative process and the production process of this unusual and collectable glass work. To purchase the video, visit South Carolina Educational Television's Web site at www.scetv.org/blenko/. (note: this didn't work for me - the film may be out of print).
This one isn't BLENKO but is an outstanding WV Film by Novak.
From Ashes to Glory120 min. 2000 Witek & Novak/WPBY-TVThis award-winning documentary deals with the worst sports disaster in American history - when almost the entire Marshall University football team died on November 14, 1970, after their plane crashed outside Huntington, killing all 75 aboard - and the team's subsequent rebound. The climb from the 1970 disaster to Marshall's two national championships during the 1990's in the I-AA division marks one of the greatest comebacks in American sports history. The video, co-produced by John Witek and Deborah Novak, describes Marshall's dramatic shift in fortunes and chronicles 30 years of sports history at the school. To obtain a copy of the video, call the Marshall Alumni Association at 1-800-682-5869.
Thanks for reading and for your comment.
hjh

A Sale . . . What is a Sale?

Having a sale . . .what does this mean?

Reader Ted E wrote to ask what I think a sale is?

Well. We all want a bargain. My Mom has been looking for a Toyota Prius V with advanced technology assist http://www.toyota.com/ and she wants to pay $30,800 which Consumer Report tells her she should pay. When she finds this car. It'll be a SALE!

Reader bgraham2007 wants all the WV Birthday Pieces and he's willing to purchase them at most any cost. When he buys Birthday Pieces . . . we'll they are for sell but I wouldn't consider it a real 'sale'.

When Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com announces a sale - it most usually means some reduction of the price on many items and many new items and 'special items' made just for the occassion. This is a sale!

Someone said everything has a price....and perhaps this is true. What you want to pay is determined by desire and availablity ( my opinion only).

May I suggest Ted you drive down to Milton for the Holiday Sale and then write to tell me if it was a 'sale' for you!. For me obtaining a new Les Womack angel and the opportunity to purchase glass created for the occassion and the ability to have my

glass signed makes this a special occassion and a sale I want to attend.

Check back for more information on the upcoming Holiday Sale and also new and exciting Blenko Glass items.

hjh

West Virginia Glass - Paper Weights

Glasslady

I wrote in September to ask about Paper weight collecting. What Blenko had to offer, what was currently available and also if you could publish photos of older paperweights.

I received a form email - stating you received my email and would research.

Call me Still waiting in OK.

Max K.

Max,

We wrote to Blenko in early September asking for photos of available Paperweights and any information they might have.
Readers: If you collect paperweights please send photos to theblenkoproject@aol.com Or if you have suggestions for starting a paperweight collection.

Dave Osburn - Osburn Modern Glass, Ron Hinkle, and Appalachain Glass all make paperweights. Check their websites.

Max just for you - I did find TAMARACK has a large - more than a dozen different paperweight made in WV available this day.

Below you'll find photos of my favorites.
Glass Potted Lily Paperweight
Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors at your office with this hand-blown potted Lily paperweight by John Murphy. Colors of flowers will vary.
4" x 3.5" x 4"
$59.00
Glass Pyramid with Geese in Flight
Decorate your desk with this pyramid shaped hand made glass paperweight made by Fred Wilkerson, Jr. Inside you will find Geese in Flight. Each paperweight is unique and one-of-a kind.
3.5" x 4" x 2.5"
price $45.00
Red Glass Apple
Be the apple of someone's eye with this his glistening Ron Hinkle Glass Apple, it will be a delicious addition to your Ron Hinkle Glass Collection! Perfect gift for teachers or apple collectors.
2.5" x 4.5" x 2.5"
price $22.00

Blenko Glass Holiday Sale

Blenko Holiday Sale -

This is an excellent opportunity to have your new purchases SIGNED.

Mr. Walter Blenko and Mr. Bill Blenko will in house signing glass.

The dates and times will be posted along with other information to come from Blenko Glass.

Please plan to attend the Blenko Glass Holiday Sale.

Many new items - many items made just for this sale.

Plan to do most all your Holiday Shopping at Blenko Glass.

Coupons may be available on the Blenko Glass website.

Thank you for your questions about the sale. When I have more information I'll immediately do a post. HJH (imagine from webmaster Steve)

Xander Blue

In response to the Xander Blue questions. Xander Blue sends the following:
Hi Hillary,

I’m not quite sure what they mean. Movie? If so, some custom desks were designed & featured on the movie “The Stepford Wives” with Nicole Kidman! We have also been featured on HGTV. I hope this helps. Thanks so much!

Tammy L. Halladay
Xanderblue
P.O. Box 798
Skaneateles, NY 13152
(315)685-1092 P
(315)685-0267 F
Note: Readers Ted E, Mary Ellen and Annu previously stated: Stepford Wives and the #5 Bond Film.

No Excuses - GAS in Louisville

If you're reading Heart of Glass then I'm certain you know GAS = Glass Arts Society.
In 2010 GAS meets in Louisville, Ky. A short drive for most readers. Plan to attend, if only for the art auction and to view the exhibits.

GAS 2010
Important Exhibit InfoVisit www.GASLouisville2010.org for regular conference updates or email info@GASLouisville2010.org.

Variations - July

Variations - Blenko glass designed by Wayne Husted.
Heart of Glass is searching for photos of the entire series. If you own Variations please send photos and any information about the series you might possess.
Thanks HJH
Photo of July issue for Variations.

July swirl in Blenko Sea Green. Probably the best selling along with the Oval June design.

Blenko Holiday Sale -

Hillary We were in Milton last week our goal was a) to spend the childrens inheritance on West Virginia Glass, and b) to stop at the factory to purchase christmas gifts. We were disappointed in both endevors. We discovered not much is available. At the factory the colors were not ones we recognized but seemed more garish. The technique of old seems to be lost. The shop had little to offer, I saw none of the lamps you promised and the lamp I did view was a hot orange color. May I respectfully suggest you publish photos of current items. Or if you haven't been to Blenko in the last year or go, visit you will be surprised by the change we were. Timothy S.

Tim

Blenko is a small family owned factory. The craftsmen at Blenko glass have great skill and are creative. It is impossible to have the shelves full daily - sales are brisk at the Visitors Center. May I suggest you order on line, or phone 304 743 9081 to inquire about availability of items you desire.

Blenko is known for 'color' they often experiment with colors and add new ones yearly. Perhaps the color you saw was a 2nd (the Visitor Center receives 2nd frequently), or from a batch that wasn't correct thus it was sold at the VC.

I have been to Blenko in the last year. My views are different. I saw the freshly cleaned Fence of Glass designed by Joel Myers, I saw new fencing around the beautiful lake, and a very clean and polish gift shop with full shelves.

Blenko is getting ready for the Holidays! The Holiday sale is this month.

You neglected to mention where you are located. Consider returning for the Holiday Sale. I guarantee you the shelves will be filled. If this is impossible, use on line ordering, OR phone Blenko and speak with one of the knowledgeable ladies on staff at Blenko. They will help you.

You also mentioned 'technique' the techniques used at Blenko are old, well established techniques with an occassional tweat or alteration. The Harvey Littelton quote about technique is a better response to your statement than anything I might state.

Blenko http://www.blenkoglass.com/ the last remaining manufacture of antique glass in the USA. Blenko Glass where you buy handmade items and everything in the shop was made in the USA.

Hillary

“technique is cheap.” All I meant by that is that technique is available to everybody, that you can read the technique, if you have any background. technique in and of itself is nothing. But technique in the hands of a strong, creative person, like Voulkos or Dante Marioni, takes on another dimension. And it’s that other dimension that is the product of our educational system, of our uniquely American freedoms, and so on.
Harvey K. Littleton
“
—
Oral history interview with Harvey K. Littleton, 2001 Mar. 15, Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

Holiday Sale - Blenko Glass

Each year BLENKO GLASS www.blenkoglass.com holds a special sale. The shelfs are filled to over flowing.
The prices are excellent. Often discount coupons maybe found in newspapers and on line.
Don't miss the Holiday Sale.
Blenko Glass a family owned business. A West Virginia company employing West Virginians.
Buy Made In the USA!

Hinkle Glassworks - Buckhannon, WV

Readers: A few weeks ago Pete wrote to ask

'what to do in WV - where to go?' Your response has been overwhelming.
Blog friend Joe Cantees sent profiles of 5 glass shops in West Virginia.

I'll publish them as blog time becomes available.

This one - Hinkle's Glassworks is definitely my favorite, I've had my eye on a Hinkle Lamp for more than 2 years. Visit the website, then make plans to visit Hinkle's studio.

hjh

Hinkle's Dying Art GlassworksRte. 9, Box 467Buckhannon, WEST VIRGINIA 26201UPSHUR County
Contact phone: 304-472-7963Fax: 304-472-6777Web site: http://www.hinklesglass.com/Latitude: 38.949285Longitude: -80.219767
Expressions of art are created through many mediums. But one of the most mystifying forms is the art of glass blowing. With more than 20 years of experience, Ron Hinkle crafts each piece of glass by hand without the use of any molds. Visit Ron’s studio for live demonstrations of his one-of-a-kind works of art.Hours: Open year-round Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tours: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Credit cards acceptedDirections: Interstate 79 to U.S. Route 33 east to the Buckhannon exit. Follow state Route 20 south five miles to Sago/Hampton Road and follow the signs.

Blenko Glass - Don't let Paraskevidekatriaphobia - Keep Your From Shopping Blenko!

www.blenkoglass.com Blenko Glass in Milton is OPEN and many shelves have reduced prices - don't let parakevidekatriaphobia keep you home. Enjoy the day and the great savings at BLENKO GLASS. 304 743 9081.
INFORMATION BELOW FROM WEBMASTER STEVE of www.blenkoproject.org and was taken directly from web info.
Friday the 13th occurs when the thirteenth day of a month falls on Friday, which superstition holds to be a day of good or bad luck. In the Gregorian calendar, this day occurs at least once, but at most three times a year. Any month's 13th day will fall on a Friday if the month starts on a Sunday. In 2009 this applies to the months of February, March, and November. The next year to have three Friday the 13th dates will be 2015.
The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskevidekatriaphobia, a word derived from the concatenation of the Greek words Paraskeví (Παρασκευή) (meaning Friday), and dekatreís (δεκατρείς) (meaning thirteen), attached to phobía (φοβία) (meaning fear). The term triskaidekaphobia derives from the Greek words "tris", meaning 'three', "kai", meaning 'and', and "deka", meaning 'ten'. the whole word means three and ten. The word was derived in 1911 and first appeared in a mainstream source in 1953.

Les Womack - Mr. Blenko Glass - Maker of Angels and Snowmen

Les Womack - Making Angels and Snowmen!

If you haven't started a Les Womack collection - plan to do so this season. Les Womack returns to Blenko Glass yearly for the Holiday Sale.

These photos were taken by Christy of Blenko Glass. Shown here is the 20 steps to making a handcrafted angel, very time consuming. Technique and skill are required.

Les Womack is one of if not my favorite Blenko Glass Retired Foreman. Les is a tall muscular man in the 2nd half of his life.

He looks 20 years younger than his stated age. He's been married to the love of his life Jenny for more than 45 years. They have one child Christy - yes, Christy from Blenko Glass. The entire Womack family - Les (foreman) Chirsty (office manager) Jenny (book keeper/secretary) worked with Blenko. Blenko Glass has many family units, cousins, sons, grandsons (Shorty Finley's grandson is a current employee). Blenko Glass is a small factory located in Milton,WV. Most past and present Blenko Glass employees will tell you they also belong to the 'Blenko Family.'

Les Womack returns each year to make ANGELS and SNOWMEN for the Holiday Sale at Blenko Glass. He's there today and most every day from now until Dec 18th making Angel and Snowmen. Yet, Somehow there are never enough Angels or Snowmen! These little glass figures sell out very quickly each and every day!

Should you want one - I suggest phoning Blenko Glass or going on line today to order. Maybe a pre order. I can't guarantee they will be in stock. BUT you'll receive the Angel or Snowman within 7 days. Problem with this. Phone 304 743 9081 and ask for Chirsty ( this is what I do for most all orders - but don't tell anyone we don't want her to be distracted from her real job).

If you want to see the Snowman and Angels being made go to the Blenko Glass website and check the calendar or phone.

Visiting the Blenko Glass on demonstration of glassmaking or observation days -should be a quarterly event for all WV families.

Take the children, the granchildren or your neighbors children to Blenko Glass during the School Holiday break.

Blenko / The Museum of American Glass - Weston

The Museum of American Glass in West Virginia will soon open a six month long show of 101 pieces of Blenko Glass
It opens 1 Nov and closes in April 30 2010
When you go - take photos for the blog please!
From Huntington - Charleston - Tri State area this could easily be a day trip.

I'll publish this post every few weeks!

Blenko - American One

This set is a limited edition BLENKO GLASS creation. It can be order by using the address or phone number below.

Mail: Po Box 255, Uwchland Pa 19480
Launch: 1012 North Pottstown Pike, Chester Springs Pa 19425
Phone: 610-458-7050
Fax: 610-458-8735

At Heart of Glass we'll be working in Clinic on Veterans Day - but if you have the day off - join a parade or volunteer on this day in Honor of Those Who Have Served and Are Serving Our Country.

The following info about Veterans Day is from webmaster Steve.

Veterans Day is an annual American holiday honoring military veterans. Both a federal holiday and a state holiday in all states, it is usually observed on November 11. However, if it occurs on a Sunday then the following Monday is designated for holiday leave, and if it occurs Saturday then either Saturday or Friday may be so designated.] It is also celebrated as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other parts of the world, falling on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. (Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice.)
The holiday is commonly printed as Veteran's Day or Veterans' Day in calendars and advertisements. While these spellings are grammatically acceptable, the United States government has declared that the attributive (no apostrophe) rather than the possessive case is the official spelling

Ruby # 6127 vase with stopper.

This photo and post are in Response to November 2nd post "can we help identify this glass'. Thank you Tim.
Readers: If you have photos you want to share on the blog, or a blenko or West Virginia Glass story you want to share, or you just want to write a post for publication please send to
theblenkoproject@aol.com We welcome your participation.
The Heart of Glass blog could not continue without your photos, and post. hjh

Hello,
a recent post asked for ID help with what was thought to be a Blenko Rialto piece. I think Bruce's analysis is correct. Its possible that the piece is Rialto but the Blenko etch on the base would help. The stopper should be ruby and shaped like the stopper in the picture I've enclosed. This picture is a ruby 6127 vase with stopper. It was often sold with the Regal series but is not listed in the catalog as such. Hope this helps.

Tim
Kissin Kate's Antiques

Patience!

" How can a society that exists on instant mash potatoes, instant cake mixes, frozen dinners, and instant cameras teach its children about patience?"

Do you have a Glass Collecting Patience story to share?

My friend Larry from Serenity Glass of Texas often suggest having patience is the key to a great glass collection. Personally patience is a virtue I'm developing.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/91373.Paul_Sweeney Paul Sweeney - Financial Advisor / and one of my favorite authors had this to say about Patience.
How can a society that exists on instant mashed potatoes, packaged cake mixes, frozen dinners, and instant cameras teach patience to its young? ~Paul Sweeney


Reader Larry Thompson (son of Blenko Glass Craftsman Harry Thompson has both a great glass collection and Patience. Red his note - 10 years he waits for the appropriate stopper!

DR. Hillary , We purchased a 7054 in the early 70s and it got broken after we had it about 10 years, the stopper was undamaged so we had been looking for an other bottle for many years. When we saw this one on eBay with out a stopper we jumped on it . I need to do a little fitting on the stopper to make an ideal fit. Thanks Larry T.

Discovery Channel 9pm Dirty Jobs - Fenton Class

The channel will vary depending on your service.
MIKE of DISCOVERY CHANNEL's DIRTY JOBS
Visits Fenton Glass in Williamstown, W.Va.
Set the VCR.
Thanks to Blog Friend Ted E for this info:
Fenton Art Glass to be featured on "Dirty Jobs" tonight!November 10
Watch Mike Rowe's glassmaking attempts on tonight, November 10, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs TV show. Click here for a sneak peek at the show! We have special Fenton USA items for Mike Rowe fans and Fenton collectors! Click here for details.

Not Blenko!

http://rickleephoto.blogspot.com/
If you need a break from Blenko. Check out Rick Lee's (Charleston artist / photographer) Blog.
Every couple of weeks I spend time visiting this photo blog.
Rick photographs will delight you and give you pause to think about each item in a new and different way . . .and after all isn't life all about
staying in the present?
Rick Lee and his camera capture beauty in each and every item.

NO Pre -ORDERS on Les Womack Series (limited to 50)

OOPs! Yesterday I misinformed you - Blenko Glass will NOT allow for pre orders of the Holiday Limited Edition items - I told you about the Les Womack series , there are other limited edition seroes . I'm waiting for photos, then I'll publish info about the new items and photos.
NO PRE ORDERS. Morning after the Holiday Sale you may phone order. I apologize for misleading you. Now my recommendation is: IF you can't come to Blenko for the Holiday Sale - PHONE the next morning to order.
The note from Blenko Glass says:
"we aren't allowing any preorders for the ltd edition items because of the small qty. After the sale weekend is over, folks are more than welcome to call the vc order if there are items remaining."

Les Womack - Holiday Limited Editon Blenko Glass

We just received this bit of news RE: BLENKO GLASS HOLIDAY SALE!


If you read the blog - you know we're big fans of retired Blenko Glass foreman LES WOMACK. We owe several of his angels and snowmen, I keep the angels on display all year long.


Mr. Womack returns to Blenko yearly to produce Blenko Angels and Snowmen. This year Les Womack will produce limited editions items. You'll want to pre order (304 743 9081 with your credit card) to assure you are one of the lucky 50 people.
http://www.pfcps.com/ PFC gift cards. My blog friend Chris http://not-my.blogspot.com/ recommends using the PFC gift cards for all your holiday purchases. Heart of Glass recommends you pay with cash or check. Increasing your debt to buy gifts is never good.
The best gift is the gift of your time - take the children, the grandchildren, the neighbors kids and drive down to Blenko Glass - the observation deck is open (check website for dates and times) and its free! Wonderful way to spend a morning. hjh

The following info is from Christy of Blenko - Christy is Les' daughter.

"Dad will have 2 pieces showcased this year. A very pretty, petite ruffle basket called "First Snow" It has blue and white swirls running through the body and a special angel we are calling the "Christmas Angel" which has all the colors of Christmas in her body, red, white, and green with a bit of sparkle. Dad will sign each piece, and they are limited to 50 each production. All numbered on the bottom."


I'll publish photos when they arrive.

Xander Blue

In response to the Xander Blue questions ask by Heart of Glass readers. Note: Heart of Glass - we're all about American Glass!

Hi Hillary,
E-mail us: info@xanderblue.com
I’m not quite sure what they mean. Movie? If so, some custom desks were designed & featured on the movie “The Stepford Wives” with Nicole Kidman! We have also been featured on HGTV. I hope this helps. Thanks so much!

Tammy L. Halladay
Xanderblue
P.O. Box 798
Skaneateles, NY 13152
(315)685-1092 P
(315)685-0267 F

BLENKO GLASS - Holiday Sale

Hilary
When is the Xmas Sale at Blenko and what are the special items being offered?
Sam Tyree
Sam, We wrote to ask Blenko, when the answer arrives we'll post. Times and dates for the Holiday Sale are listed on the Blenko Glass website. We have copied these for you (see below).

Annual Holiday Sale
Friday, November 27, 2009 - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, November 29, 2009 - 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
6th Annual Blenko Holiday Sale Sales and Events TBA
*Photo of WV Glass - WV Birthday - a highly sought after collection sold only on June 20th yearly since the 80s in honor of West Virginia's Statehood.

We Want Your Photos -

#1Please take photos of your Thanksgiving and Christmas Decorations (West Virginia Glass). Photos of your trees w/ glass ornaments. These will be used in late November - January.
#2 Wednesday Event - Send photos of your
special Blenko - or one item (WV Glass) that you most value.
If there is enough interest we'll do this weekly.
#3 Your favorite place to purchase Blenko Glass - on line and freestanding shops
we'd like the name address phone number and website info.
Thank you. HJH

Tear Drop - Glass Necklace Appalachain Glass

499 US Highway 33 East
304-269-1030
(fax) 304-269-0180
market@appglass.com

Reader Mountain Rita

Sent the following information photo and note.

Last year I purchased a dozen glass necklaces up in Weston, a place called Applacahin Glass. Daily they make the glass while you watch. One or two men, both retired from Louie Glass. This and the WV Glass Museum made the trip to Weston one I do yearly. I bought these for the women in my prayer group. The cost was minimal. Chip told me he can made special designs upon request if you order more than a dozen.

Rondels and Bullseyes

Blenko Glass in Milton, WV is the only American producer of Antique handrolled glass.

The Blenko Glass line is most important in the restoration of Anitque Glass Windows. Don Lemley (304 743 9081) is the Director of Antique Glass. Questions about this line - phone Don Lemley.

The BLenko Glass website has the following info about Rondels and Bulleyes.


Glazing of windows with small, round pieces of glass was very common in the Middle Ages in private homes as well as public buildings. In old towns, some of these windows, set in lead channels, may still be found in sensitively restored buildings.
Genuine rondels are produced one by one at Blenko Glass Company, Inc. in the traditional mouth blown method. Every rondel is a unique piece - brilliant and alive, setting it apart from pressed or cast imitations.
Molten glass is taken from the furnace with the blowpipe. The amount of the glass gathered determines the eventual size in the rondel. The molten glass is blown out into a small bubble. The circumference of the bubble is the second important factor determining the final size to be produced. The production of a uniform, high quality rondel depends on the skill and experience of the "rondelmaster". The small, still hot ball of glass will now be attached to a pontil rod and broken from the blowpipe. After reheating it is opened with a pair of shears. Using a special technique the "rondelmaster" then folds the edges, lending strength to the rondel, making it more workable. Spinning the glass, a small, round rondel is formed. After reaching the desired size, the rondel is tapped off the pontil rod and slowly cooled in an annealing oven.
The characteristic navel, caused by breaking the glass off the blowpipe is an unmistakable sign of genuinely mouth blown rondel.




Blenko has been producing hand-spun rondels for over 100 years using a process that dates back to Medieval times. Our rondels range in size from 3" up to 14" and can be custom cut into to "bullseye panes" for restoration purposes.

Question: Hilary
Can you provide for me the name and address of the glass maker in Milton (not Blenko) who does those beautiful glass Christmas ornaments?
Ruth H.

Ruth, Dave Osburn of Osburn Modern Glass is the only glassmaker in Milton other than Blenko Glass. His phone number is listed below.
Readers: Do you know anyone else in Milton who makes glass Christmas Ornaments? If so share the contact with Ruth.

Osburn Modern Glass
Milton, WV 25541
p: (304) 743 9280 Milton, WV 25541
p: (304) 743 9280

Blenko Inspired Art

hillary
I have 2 request. One can you publish photos of all the Blenko Birthday Pieces along with information about each?
2nd request : Long ago you published a photo of bronze Blenko inspired art piece. Will you publish this again as I cant find the article. Also publish contact info for the maker.
Thank you
Gordon L.
Gordon, Perhaps in January I'll republish the WV Birthday Vase, this series seems to appeal a large number of readers.
Re: Photo of the metal art. If I can readily find - I'll republish.
HJH

Blenko Catalog

Heart of Glass always recommends buying Blenko Glass catalogues and all reference books, so you can the informed buyer. Stu's question is about new catalogues.

My question is, When, where and how to get

the lastest print editions of Blenko Catalogs.

How do I order, or buy?

Who is the contact person? Can I make and pay for this on line

Is there a 2009 hard copy? When is 2010 available

Stu L.

Stu,

Sent your note to Blenko Glass. When we get a response I'll publish here.

Anyone have suggestions for Stu?

hjh

Keith Lahti - Pottery / Stain Glass etc.

www.claywestvirginia.com
Blog Friend and Most excellent West Virginia Artist Keith Lahti is having his annual Holiday Show (discounted prices and its for friends only - BUT you're all invited) Keith has given me permission to invite all Blog Readers.
See the invite below:
You are invited to the
Annual Holiday Show of Pottery
Created by Keith Lahti
With Ceramic Jewelry by Cree Lahti

Saturday and Sunday
November 14 & 15
Noon to 5:00 Each Day

Directions: I-79 to Big Otter, Exit 40 (Rt. 16). North on Rt. 16 to Nebo (about 3 miles), Right on Nebo-Walker Rd. and go 8/10 of a mile,
Bear left up hill (sign says Nebo Baptist Church).
Go to top of hill & down the other side,
Driveway is on left at bottom of hill.
Phone (304) 286-2635,
(call if you need another time)

Also happening out this way the same days:
Open Studio at McColley Studio with-
Connie McColley, Sterling Silver Jewelry
Lynn Gundry, Stained Glass
Tom McColley, Turned Wooden Bowls

I'll have directions to their Studio here.
Make it a day of craft!

More Blenko Ebay Finds

Hi Doc,
Just wanted to share this photo of a couple older pieces of Blenko. The Amethyst piece is a #375 that I just picked up mislisted. It is actually one of a pair that I ended up sharing with another local collector. The Jonquil piece appears to be a #488 which shows up in the Eige book only as an ad.
Enjoy
Bruce

Can We Help This Reader Identify Her Decanter?

Linda - will you write again to give you the size - measure the bottle, also tell us about the bottom of the bottle - what do you see when you look at the bottom (marks - Blenko etched?) HJH

Hello! I have a Blenko decanter I purchased at an Estate Sale here in Northeast Ohio. It is the white opaque semi-transparent glass that Wayne Husted made on in the year 1960. I was told that the flame stopper is not the original. I have a picture and would like to share it with you. Could you please let me know if the stopper is NOT the original? I wondered if Wayne Husted would remember this piece and if by chance he produced some of these decanters with this white cased stopper that came with the decanter when I purchased it.
Thank you so much for your time and any helpful information you can provide.
Sincerely,
Linda

Vacation West Virginia !

Hilary
We heard you said: "vacation in west virginia" spend your dollars in state.
If you did say this. My question is where? There are no beaches in West Virginis.
Why would anyone want to?
Where would one go if they did want this?
What is in West Virginia other than Blenko Glass?
Pete C.
Pete,
Your email made me laugh - and I needed a good laugh, this was a difficult week as spam filled my Blog , and comments were cancelled for the last few days.

Readers please write to suggest places in our beautiful state Pete might want to visit.
My suggestion would be www.wvtourism.com .
When you cross the state line - from Ohio, Virginia, Ky, Maryland you enter a wild, wonderful, friendly place filled with remarkable people and a majestic beauty.
Pete, Blenko Glass is only one of many glass shops in West Virginia.Fenton Glass, Osburn Modern Glass, Appalachian Glass, Hinkle's Glass Studio, etc. the list is very long!
The West Virginia Glass Museum http://wvmag.bglances.com/index.htmlin Weston and TAMARACK www.tamarackwv.com near Beckley bring thousands of visitors to West Virginia each year.

Fenton Glass

Fenton Glass. A West Virginia Glass Company.

Check out QVC for best selection of FENTON GLASS.

http://www.fentonglass.com/

Fenton Glass - A West Virginia Glass Co.

Photo: Tom Fenton showing the machine that charges the furnaces taken 05/22/2006. A glass worker carrying a QVC piece to the annealing oven is photo 50 taken when production was very limited on 08/20/2007. http://www.fentonartglass.com/

Note: On November 7th a Fenton represenative will be at the Bronze Look in Princeton, W.Va.

http://www.thebronzelook.com/