Blenko Glass - Pumpkins

Christy and the Ladies of Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com sent these photos and a reminder - Blenko will have a large selection of pumpkins (all sizes) at the Milton Pumpkin Festival.
note: Carolee you may order by phone, refer to the photo - please remember the selection changes daily.

Marvin Lipofsky - Glass 2010

FIESTA Tent Sale!

One of West Virginia's finest manufacturers is again having a Tent Sale. Complete your own set, start a set for
a relative, or just stock up on Christmas Gifts.
The prices are extremely low for items in the tents.
Bring a towel or cloth to clean the items and check for stratches, and also a wagon or someone strong to carry
your purchases.
Mark your calendar: Oct 14, 15, and 16th Tent Sale at the Festisa Factory Outlet.

http://www.fiestafactorydirect.com5+tentsale.aspx

Fiesta College Logo Items

www.hlchina.com

Hillary,

Few years ago I found a water pitcher in one of my favorite shops, the owner said it was hand made in WV . I'm thinking it may be made by Blenko. I' m attachn a photo of a Blenko pitcher with WVU logo. Can you tell me when this was made? Also what is the value? Lorrie Edes

Lorrie, Your water pitcher is a Fiesta Logo water pitcher. Fiesta began doing college logo items about 3 years ago.

I'm posting photos of Fiesta college logo items. Note photo #2 a water pitcher similar to the one you own.

hjh

PUMPKINS! Blenko Glass Pumpkins are available now.

Photo of Fiesta pumpkin plate and mug. FIESTA AND FENTON glass also offer Halloween inspired tablewares.

http://www.hlchina.com/

BLENKO Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ is currently making Pumpkins for the Milton Pumpkin Festival and for your table! The selection is at an all time high.

You'll want to phone to reserve several. If you live in the area, visit the Milton Gift Shop - Blenko Glass on Bill Blenko Drive in Milton, WV

to select your glass pumpkins.

If you have Blenko or other glass pumpkins - we' welcome your photos of pumpkins and fall colored glass the month of Oct.

Blenko Glass

Hilary

I did the google search for Blenko and blenko collectors. Three or four pages pop up

the obvious is blenko glass company and the blenko glass collectors after this I was totally confused, facebook, twitter, people selling glass, museums w/o walls, and more people interconnected and selling glass. Do I believe and read fromthe sellers pages or do I look for referencesw?

Even Wiki seems polluted with info from sellers. Very little factual, most a PR piece for

a seller.

Does Blenko own the name Blenko? Is anyone responsbile for their image on line?

Who do I trust? Where do I go?

I am now buying from Ebay and Etsy and only items listed in the catalogs I own.

It would help if you gave us more direction.

Connie Faulknier

Connie,

Check out the West Virginia Museum of American Glass, http://www.magwv.com/ . If you live close enough for a trip to Weston I would recommend visiting the museum.

Many sellers of Blenko are also collectors and their knowledge varies, members of the Blenko Collectors Society also have a good base of knowledge and many sold and still sell Blenko.

As with any hobby, people often start selling in an effort to improve their collection, or as their knowledge becomes more refined.

I'm a dentist, I have no expertise in glass making, or identification of glass. As a public service to blog readers, we do attempt to assist with identification as a group. Value of Blenko is subjective often the Pina book is used as a guide.

Continue to be cautious, read everything, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't true. There are a good number of Blenko myths and Blenko experts, long ago

Steve Bair a Charleston collector told me to buy only what I loved, then I would never be disappointed. Buy glass that you like and want to live with. Then if the value increases you'll be delighted, if it doesn't you won't mind.

I don't have an answer for your question about Blenko's name and who protects the name or image but I am forwarding the question to Mr. Walter Blenko the President of Blenko.

Thank you for writing and continue to buy Blenko Glass. If you live near enough to visit the

Blenko Gift Shop, buy new glass. When you purchase new glass from the factory you make a direct contribution to the well being of Blenko Glass. Another plus is the gift shop has a wide

variety of glass and often you'll find older items that may have been lost in storage for a few

years.

Shop Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ Milton, WV.

West Virginia Birthday Vase

Hilary

While catching up on reading at the beach, I read about the WVBD collection you donated to WVU. Then I started researching glass and blenko on the net, I've read a couple dozen sites from start to finish searching for info about the WVBD Vase, also I drove to Morgantown to see in person the WVBD vases you donated to WVU.

There I told they (WVBD vases) were in the Presidents Home and not available at this time for public view. After this I made another weekend trip to Blenko Glass where I discovered only a dozen or so are on display. Someone should tell them they need the entire collection on display.

Now I want my own. Suggestions for where I can find the older ones and

suggestions for how to become a member of the WVBD club.

Sue Vickers

Sue,

I'll pass your suggestion to Blenko.
Thank you for writing. Blenko continues to make each year on or about June 20th a special vase to celebrate West Virginia's Birthday. http://www.blenkoproject.org/ .

Phone Blenko at 304 743 9081 with questions, http://www.blenkoglass.com/ .

The exact date is listed on Blenko 's website and also in this blog we promote the event a month or two prior. You need only show up at least 12 hours prior to the announced time the gift shop will open. You'll pay under $160 and you'll receive a signed and number WVBD vase.

Often WVBD vases (older) are offered for sale via this blog, and on e-bay. A few weeks ago a reader offered the 'fish bowl' WVBD vase which was created and signed by Don Shepperd.

In our wonderful State www.wv.gov - Fenton, Festia, Blenko and now OSBURN MODERN GLASS all make a special item for the WVBD event. This was the first year OSBURN GLASS participated.

First Editon are usually - well the first 1-5 years are the most difficult to find, and the first year is often the only one many collect. OSBURN's WVBD vase sold for less than $90 it was made of glass that looked very much like granite - with cranberry, creme, and beige. Very

unique. You ask how to acquire. I'd phone Dave Osburn and ask if he has one or two remaining and then make a quick purchase. All WVBD pieces are signed and numbered.

Osburn Glass is Fax 304 743 9281 Phone 304 743 9280 - the address is 1000 Amos St. Milton, Blog reader Phani took the above photo of Dave's WVBD Vase. Everyone agreed this vase will beautiful in Phani's photo , is even more lovely when seen with the naked eye.

Happy Collecting! Buy made in West Virginia Glass when possible.

Vintage Blenko

Vintage Blenko. Les Womack, Shorty Finley, no two people have been more involved with creating fine vintage Blenko. Consider yourself 'lucky' if you find an item signed by either Shorty Finley or Les Womack.

Everette " Shorty" Finley retired Blenko glass blower recently suffered yet another small heart attack. He was released from St Mary's Hospital www.st-marys.org on Saturday evening.
On Tuesday
he was feeding animals at his farm and visiting friends at Blenko Glass.

Les Womack has been blessed with excellent health since his initial retirement and he returned recently to Blenko Glass to begin making ANGELS and Snowmen for the Holiday Season. May I suggest you stop by Blenko soon for the largest selection of Angels.
Angels are a special holiday item, however, my family often uses the Blenko Angel in place of a floral arrangement when visiting a sick friend, or as a gift for someone undergoing surgery or chemo. The ANGELS are a wonderful gift for any occasion.

Purple Moon Estate Sale

September 24-25-26, 2010 - Teays Valley - Hurricane, WV

Closeout! 50% Off - Everything Must Go!
Friday & Saturday, September 24th and 25th - 10am to 4pm!
Sunday, September 26th - Noon to 5pm

This sale features exceptional quality home furnishings, bedrooms with vintage furniture and Two Craftmatic Adjustable Beds. Tables, chairs, Technics Stereo system, and much more!

Original and fine art prints, exceptional glassware from Fenton, and Tiffin. Fine dinnerware including Franconia China in the Millefleurs pattern and Fostoria American Glassware!

Hundreds of records including 78s, LPs and Boxed sets all in top-rate condition. Lots of collectibles, books, vintage treasures and kitchen items.

Three televisions, knick knacks, etc.

You will not want to miss this! Watch preview video on the Purple Moon blog for a glimpse of the items in this great sale which began last weekend!

Friday and Saturday September, 24th/25th from 10am - 4pm and Sunday, September 26th from Noon - 5pm.

Birds of a Feather

Hillary:


Here we see some glass birds, all made in West Virginia. The red and green pieces are Fenton: the green one is a two-piece candle holder; the red eagle is a stamped commemorative, bicentennial piece (1976-1776). The blue bookends are BLENKO. I've owned these for years but have seen several pairs for sale lately, especially in amber and clear. Finally, the owl roosting in the back is a Viking ashtray. I don't actively collect glass birds but, over the years, these have flown onto my shelves and I really enjoy them. I have a couple of the Viking glass birds with the long tails; however, they seemed too delicate to hang out with these heavyweights. Notice the birds have been reading a lot lately. They've just finished reading the Appalachians and are moving on to PEANUTS. However, on their "to do list" is to finish reading Senator Byrd's autobiography, "Child of the Appalachian Coalfields."


I'd love to see other readers share their glass bird photos. At the very least, I'm hoping the comments section of your blog will work so that we can get a reaction or two from this one!


WV Janis

West Virginia Football * Other Team Logos available

If you havent been to BLENKO GLASS http://www.blenkoglass.com/ for your
WVU and Marshall logo plates, decanters, bowls etc. plan a trip before your next football game.
The very best pre and post game parties will include Blue and /or Green
Blenko Glass.
Learn more about Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoproject.org/.

Note: Not all items in this photo are currently available. The available selections at the Blenko Glass gift shop change daily.

Bichoff Glass

hilary

I have 2 boxes of glass my Mom marked as Bischoff Glass.

Is this a branch of Blenko Glass?

Where can I find values? The glass is from the 40s I believe.

Lindsey G.

Dallas



Lindsey,
Bischoff was located in Culloden, WVa. My suggestion is you
contact the West Virginia Museum of American Glass in Weston, WV www.wvmag.com.
Another resource is the Blenko Collectors Four , you might also google Bischoff and follow the various links.
If this doesn't answer your question, email theblenkoproject@aol.com send the photos and I'll try to find answers for you.

OSBURN GLASS - Milton, WV

Photo # 1 is of Blenko Glass taken during the WVBD celebration.

OSBURN MODERN GLASS DESIGN in a swirl of color combinations, more beautiful when seen with the naked eye.

#3 Blenko Glass photo taken during the Festival of Glass by Phani.

These photos were taken by Phani our Texas blog friend. These are samples of Osburn Modern Glass. Dave Osburn worked for more than 2 decades at Blenko Glass
when he left to open his own studio he was the foreman at Blenko Glass. Osburn designed and signed many items of glass while at Blenko. He worked with Richard Blenko
to design a couple of the WV Birthday Pieces.
When time permits stop by Osburn Glass. Dave is still small enough to allow for special request - he recently made wine glasses for my Mother, and a challis for
a local church. If you don't see what you want - or have something 'special' in mind. Ask Dave if he can make the item.
The prices at Osburn Glass are much lower than we as Blenko Collectors are accustom to making.
Osburn Glass and Hinkle Dying Art Glass are two of the most well known art glass studio in West Virginia.
Osburn Glass is up the road from Blenko glass - about 1/2 mile. Watch for signs.

Note: Corrections to identification of photos made on 9/23/

Beyond Variations - Oval Gemstone Carafe

A brief history of The Variations designs
by Wayne Husted.

When Deb Novak and Richard Blenko were in San Francisco in 2002 for one of Blenko’s Public Television Promotions, Deb Novak advised me that if Blenko had a new design for Blenko’s iconic 384 Water Bottle it would be great for their TV promotions.

So I decided to create an up-dated version of the Iconic Blenko 384 Water Pitcher/Vase.

I named it “ PT Cruiser” because it was historically parallel to the Chrysler’s update of a 1936 car design.
For my newly modified version of the design from Osburn Modern Glass it is reborn as a Gemstone Carafe.

The Variations Group from which the new Oval Gemstone Carafe was developed totaled 12 designs, a design for each month of the year, for example: a Sun design for August, a Red and Green pitcher/vase for December, a Ruby heart for February and a rainbow shape for January.
After Dave Osburn left Blenko to open up his own studio glass shop up the road in Milton, I moved the molds from the Blenko factory to Osburn Modern Glass where some of the molds have been modified and the June bottle is now offered in four jewel like colors. Ruby / Sapphire / Emerald / Amethyst and Crystal.
David and I will be adding more Gemstone pieces and jewel colors. I have several new designs in mind, and plan to sketch them and put them on my new FaceBook page so that collectors of American Art glass can cast their vote for the next Husted/Osburn creation in the Gemstone colors.
The Gemstone offering can be accessed at gemstonecarafes.com or by Googling waynehusted25@gmail.com
People who love and collect hand blown glass know that while imported glass is much cheaper because of low labor costs, very cheap imports offer the unique beauty and creativity of American Styled handblown glass.

You can read more about the Gemstone Carafe venture at the Gemstone website: gemstonecarafes.com.
Or requste their mailer at: Husted Designs, POBox 515, Mill Valley, CA 94941.

VINTAGE BLENKO - Local Dealers

Hi Hillary,
Here is a nice grouping of yellow Blenko. I collect Blenko and also sell some pieces online at www.muddycreekantiques.com as well as at The Old Timey Shop in Milton, WV. This group includes vase #607 in jonquil, #595 in jonquil and #64D in lemon.
~vintageshopgirl

Blenko Glass 1982 WV Birthday

K.B. - Thank you for writing, the photo is beautiful. This is one of my favorite early WV Birthday Pieces. hjh

I own this 1982 Birthday Piece its in excellent condition and I'd like to sell it as I'm downsizing.

Can you let others know.

Thank You.

K. B.

Florida

Glass Classes

Heart of Glass gets letters every week requesting information about local glassmaking classes.
On special occassions Blenko Glass offers a few workshops - Tony Patti from Glassblower sent
along this information about a glass.
For most of you its a 2 hour drive - The price is right and the instructors are excellent!
www.glasslightstudio.com is the website.


Glasslight Studio is proud to announce it's 2010 Fall workshop schedule!

Workshops run 9am-5pm and cost $160 per person. It's a fun time had by all! Come out and join your fellow glass junkies and make some really cool glass!

Register with Pat Ackerman via email - packerman@healthpart.com
or phone 215-991-4036, (H) 610-692-6378.

Check out the studio's website for info and directions: www.glassslightstudio.com

Some of you are interested in ornaments. We have not designated a specific date as of yet. Usually it happens in Nov. If you are interested please let me know and we'll develop a roster.

Fall workshops

Sept
11
19
25

Oct
3
9
17
23
30

Nov
7
13
20

Dec
5
11

L ete c'est fini

Thank you . HJH

Hillaryy the French say L'ete' c'est fini - - - and the calender is a reminder end the summer on a high note.
If you haven't take 15 minutes to write down all the things you wanted to do over the summer but never got around to. Put your list in an envelope. When you get next year's calendar, paperclip the list to the first day of June and then open it. Don't forget to mark
the calendar with the Blenko Glass Festival, The WV Birthday /Blenko sale in June and Ganesh Chateurthi ( for Chitra's calendar. Mark local glass festivals - in Conn. its the 2nd week of July, In West Virginia Appalachian Glass does a Glass blower reunion / Festival of Glass in March. One way to include everything is to check out your state and neighboring states website.
Observe this year the autumnal festival of Michaelmas on Sept 29, which is the feast day of St Michael the Archangel. This ancient English harvest festival dates back to the sixth century. Its a tradition in our house to have blackberry or raspberry treats - pies, tarts or blackberry jam on scones with tea.
As a reader of the blog, I am aware of the infrequent post. I'm in agreement with Bridget we should all be contributing with possible articles and photos. Next week after our
glass trip I promise to send photos. We're a thousands miles from WV but Blenko is Blenko
and as Blenko Collectors we enjoy seeing photos.
Bridget suggested you ask readers for contributions of articles / post / what ever it is you call writings for a blog. Do this, you have nothing to loose. Also ask local vendors to send you photos of WV Glass they are offering. We visit each year the Purple Moon and Mason Blues in Mason County, start with these shops.
If you ask, people will contribute and the people who write the long and caustic post might focus their energy on a well composed
post for an upcoming blog.
Just wanted to sound off.
Sissie

Where Have All The Blenko Collectors Gone?

photo of Blenko Special Edition Bunny - signed and number and available at the Blenko Visitors Center in Milton, WV.

Bridgett:

I'm publishing your email. Readers suggestions for how we might help Bridgett?

HJH

Dear Glasslady,

Thank you. I continue to find the blog filled with educational information and bits of

Blenko News.

My roles in life are complicated - I'm on deployment with Public Health as a Doctor who changed career goals for a JAG assignment I like order, and consistency. Of late I find neither with the Blenko Blog or the Blenko Collectors.

WHERE HAVE ALL THE COLLECTORS GONE? My checks for dues are not cashed, I get no newsletters or emails.

In the last four years, I've recruited my future husband and a dozen or more public health officers to Blenko Collecting. All are happy with the color, the price they paid and would enjoy fellowship with Blenko Collectors . What's Up with Blenko?

The online prices of Blenko other than the Blenko being sold at the factory are very low. My guess is I've lost more on Blenko than in my 401K the last 24 months.

Before you response "its the economy" let me say that the sales of many glass artist show increases the resale value is stagnant but not declining.

Glasslady What is happening with Blenko Collectors? What is happening to increase the sales of vintage glass also to keep the prices up?

May I suggest you start allowing sellers of vintage or special Blenko to announce or send photos of these items and the asking price? It would allow readers to purchase from

local sellers and perhaps increase interest. (2) You speak with Blenko about more advertisement, and perhaps you could also weekly publish photos of available glass and prices (3) Blenko might offer sale items and you could publish photos.

(4) Ask others to write special articles for the Blog, this suggestions was received with warmth a year or so ago, however - no visible action.

I belong to 3 other glass groups, all complain of lower prices - as a buyer, I'm enjoying paying the lower prices. Quality is the issue. I'm not seeing quality vintage Blenko on line.

Would you either publish this or address the issue with a blog post?

Bridgett

Blenko Glass Collecting. The Hat

Hillary Homburg

Last week we saw a cowboy hat with a Blenko label - the block label it was priced $390.

I was attracted but felt the price was too high. Can you tell me what this item was intended to do, what I should pay and when it was made.

Terrance

Terrance,

Most Blenko was made to be used. In the home decor, or for tableware. The hat you saw is still being made by Blenko Glass and last I checked the cost was $132 The hat was made in several sizes.

This hat can be used as an ice bucket or to hold and chill wine. My Mom frequently puts soil and violets or grass in this hat and uses for display in an entry hall. ( note: collectors are concerned with stains, both water and soils can cause stains to the glass).

You didn't mention the color - The most common color and thus the least expensive is crystal, the most rare is Ebony and thus the seller will ask more for Ebony.

This hat has always been a big seller in the TEXAS area. The 'hat' was available in a rainbow of colors over the years. Special orders produced an even wider selection of colors.

In the last year - the hat has been offered for a low as $125 and up to $375. Always check the conditon of an item prior to purchase, and its always a good idea to know the value prior to buying.

Note: Ebony was produced for a short time is is the most valuable color

and elusive color for the hat. The crystal hat is from the Blenko website.

Blenko also made a ladies bonnet and a top hat.

Friends of Coal Bowl

Blog Reader Sol sent this photo of The Friends of Coal Bowl.

For most West Virginians its the biggest football game of the year.

Even though each year both Marshall and WVU play bowl

games - win their conference - this game is important. Not for national ratings - but for State Bragging Rights.

The trophy was made in West Virginia by FENTON GLASS , Dave Fetty came out of retirement to manage the making of the glass football. The design and implementation of this trophy is superior.

Don't like football? Well, you probably couldn't find a ticket - even if you wanted to attend. You can watch the game on TV hoping to see the trophy or google 'the coal bowl trophy" to find photos.

If you plan to attend the game. Stop by BLENKO GLASS, there are a dozen sale tables. Its a great weekend for football and Blenko / WV Glass.

Blenko Glass & Blenko Collectors

This is the time of year when most all Blenko Collectors start to inventory the items they've purchased and make a list of the items they want to search for in the upcoming year.

This is also the time of year when EBAY and other online websites have vintage glass at prices much lower than you'll find them in the established vintage web sale pages.

Also this is the time for end of year YARD SALES , if you are lucky enough to live in the tri state , almost every yard sale will have some piece of Dunbar Glass, Viking, Fenton or Blenko. In the Wheeling area one can find Fostoria and Cambridge glass at every other yard sale.

My Uncle Barry spends one weekend each month doing yard sales or estate sales. He enjoys the travel, meets interesting people and is amassing a great collection of WV and American Glass. He spends very little money, other than for gas and food. In the 5 years since his retirement from Coke - he's created a collection of over 200 BLENKO items mostly from the 60-70s and has an entire collection of WV Birthday Pieces ( minus one). This has become a passion for him. A retirement hobby , collecting Blenko has replaced his golf addiction. The uncles still get together to fish and travel - however, now when they stop for an evening they scout out yard sales and flea markets to search for WV and American Glass.

Blenko Collectors - We have doctors, lawyers, accountants, housewives, engineers ( a great number of engineers), clerks in local department stores, computer analyst - a fireman, a couple police officers, who write frequently to the blog - Blenko Collectors can be found in most every city. When you begin to collect BLENKO and American Glass you become immediately a part of something much larger.

If you haven't started a BLENKO or American Glass collection. Why not visit the WV Cultural Center this month - purchase one of the limited edition RON HINKLE flowers - and then drive down to BLENKO GLASS in Milton, then go over to OSBURN GLASS and with these 3 purchases you have become a collector.

Go on line and read and research. I like the BLENKO PROJECT http://www.blenkoprogject.org/ , Blenko Collectors Four and The Blenko Society website.

The more you know about the items you want to collect - the better your chances are for making good purchases.

Bought anything new this week? If so email the blenkoproject@aol.com and let us share your find with others.

HJH

photo from D. Weber Collection.

Labor Day Shopping?

Labor Day - The website says BLENKO GLASS is OPEN!

It seems all the clothing and furniture stores are offering LABOR DAY Specials!

At Blenko Glass we have daily specials, and on line coupons for $$$ off.

At Blenko Glass a clearance table is located in the rear of the gift shop. This table daily has new items and the prices are reduced up to 70% off.

Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ located in Milton, WV has been making very unique and special glass items for over 100 years.

Each year at least one new color or color combination is offered.

If you don't collect BLENKO GLASS now is a great time to start.

Learn more about Blenko Glass and Blenko Glass collecting by reading from the online web sites devoted to BLENKO GLASS.

When you buy Blenko Glass for your home, your office or for gift giving you are supporting a West Virginia Factory, WV workers and their families.

BUY MADE IN THE USA and when possible buy from local vendors.

Note: Photos is a BAYLISS TEAM design and is currently available from Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com

FOOTBALL Season www.msnsportsnet.com

This weekend is the first game of the season for WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY . http://www.msnsportsnet.com/ , http://www.wvu.edu/.

Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ yearly produces a number of special items with the team logos.

These items are made for use - the WVU water bottle and the WVU flower vases and wine decanters are often seen in the Blue Lot ( parking for WVU).

When you use GLASS ie BLENKO GLASS you are (1) promoting WV Glass, (2) using a recycled material (3) avoiding plastic (4) showing your support of your TEAM and (5) the many glass workers/ artist in West Virginia.

Note: Not all the items in above photo are currently in stock.

With team logo items, buy everything you can afford - as many items are produced for one season only.

If your team/ university isn't listed on the Blenko Glass website - give Katie a call, (304 743 9081) she'll work with any interested group to provide Team Logo glassware.

Blenko Glass has been making glass and also supporting West Virginia Colleges and Universities for nearly 100 years.

This season - wear your school colors for every game - and set the mood of your pre and post game celebrations with BLENKO!

Vintage Blenko - Estate Sale

TROPHY HAIR is conducting an estate sale in Charleston, WV 418 Virginia Street W, Charleston, WV 25302 Phone 304 346 3907

This estate contains a dozen or so very old, (50 - 60s and a couple pieces from 70s) signed by the artist & or designer.

No Blenko is priced for more than $400.

Tammy Fowler the owner of Trophy Hair and Antiques / Estate Sales doesn't allow for
online buying. However you may phone Trophy Hair and she'll email you photos and prices. For a small fee she will arrange shipment.

These prices are extremely low - as the family wants everything cleared out during the sale.

Trophy Hair will open again on Tuesday - If, like me you get anxious to see good quality, low priced vintage Blenko - - you may phone and leave a message during the weekend.

Dentistry - Blenko

Glassdoc

I have a riddle for ya?

How does selecting a toothbrush compare to purchasing Blenko Glass?

Give up?

The largest number of people purchase blue toothbrushes

and blue is also the most popular color sold at Blenko Glass.

I dare you to publish this.

Alex F.

Blenko 658 L & 6732L

Shown here are Myers designed decanters- 6732L in Honey and 658L in Peacock.

Several of you have written to ask about Bruce Specht Family.

Bruce sent this photo and note to say Thank you to all the blog readers who left such thoughtful responses to the post of Debbie's obit.

The Specht Family will forever feel the loss but are at peace and remain strong.

Thank you Bruce for these photos, and for your continued support of West Virginia Glass and Heart of Glass blog.

Ron Hinkle exhibit at State Cultural Center

The West Virginia Division of Culture and History will open a new exhibit, Ron Hinkle Glass, one of the West Virginia’s Gift to the World series, in the Lobby Gallery of the Culture Center, State Capitol Complex in Charleston. An opening reception to celebrate the show will be held Monday, Aug. 30, at the Culture Center beginning at 6 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and the public is invited to attend. Ron Hinkle Glass will remain on display through Oct. 31.

The evening’s event will include remarks by Commissioner Randall Reid-Smith of the Division and a Gallery Talk by Hinkle. The artist also will have 100 signed and numbered pieces entitled “Flower of the Evening,” for sale to the public for $40. The special edition piece is a six-inch-tall cranberry glass starflower mounted atop a solid base of crystal glass that rises up in a spiraled vine where the flower sits.

The exhibit has the theme “While You Were Sleeping,” and will resemble a glass flower garden. There are approximately 1,000 pieces of glass in the show including flowers, stars, orbs and leaves in a variety of shapes and colors – all set against the backdrop of a night sky.

Hinkle is an accomplished master glass artist who embodies great passion and appreciation for glass and the history of glass making. He was born and raised in Buckhannon and developed a love of glass at the young age of 12. Using the glass tubing from his chemistry set, Hinkle taught himself to bend and stretch glass over the burners of his gas stove.

During the summer before his senior year at Buckhannon-Upshur High School, Hinkle learned that the glass factories in nearby Weston needed summer help. He began working for Louie Glass and ended up spending the next 20 years there, learning from the masters, while developing his own style.

Within a few years, Hinkle began working independently during his breaks and after work to learn the art of glass blowing. He soon was assigned to a glass blowing position, where he remained for 14 years. He began crafting paperweights during every spare moment and secured an apprentice to assist him. In mid-1993, Hinkle left Louie Glass and opened Hinkle’s Dying Art Glassworks on Jan. 1, 1994 in Buckhannon. He initially sold his work wholesale, particularly to Princess House Consultants. For the first five years, his business grew by 30 percent each year. His art glass is available in more than 30 states and select international locations. In December 2005, he changed his company’s name to Ron Hinkle Glass.

Hinkle’s work has been featured on the West Virginia Governor’s Tree and the Christmas Pageant of Peace trees at the White House. He regularly demonstrates his craft at the Mountain State Arts and Craft Fair in Ripley and the WVU Jackson’s Mill Jubilee near Weston and has been featured in USA Today, Lifestyle Crafts Buyers Guide, Wonderful West Virginia, West Virginia Living. Corridor, West Ways and All About Glass magazine. His product line includes designer vases, rondels, bowls, stemware, table lamps and a series of novelty figurines including animals, fruit and flowers. He currently is developing a line of handcrafted custom lamps in collaboration with blacksmith artist Jeff Fetty of Spencer.

For more information about the West Virginia’s Gift to the World exhibit, Ron Hinkle Glass, contact Charles Morris, director of museums and collections and exhibits manager for the Division, at (304) 558-0220.

I plan on heading over after work tomorrow - I hope some of you will as well!

Specht Family of Texas - Photo

#549 Spouted decanters in Charcoal and Amethyst.

When I see Bruce Spect's photos of Blenko Glass - these words from a song . . ." nobody does it better " find their way into my sphere. Bruce's photos are always superior.

Vintage Blenko

http://www.vmglasshouse.com/

Hilary,

Please give me the phone number and address of the dealer in NYC you all

speak of on the blog.

I'm tired of looking w/o success for the older items I need to complete my

collection.

S. Preiser

Ms. Preiser,

Please check out the web site http://www.vmglasshouse.com/ if you don't find
the information you need, email me at theblenkoproject@aol.com and I'll forward your
letter to the appropriate person. A reader wrote to say Tammy Kosla former Blenko Collectors Society President - is downsizing and will be bringing her vintage glass collection to market.
Good Luck!

HJH

http://herald-dispatchblogs04.blogspot.com/

http://herald-dispatchblogs04.blogspot.com/ The Heart of Glass Blog
All things Blenko and West Virginia Glass.
Save the book mark.

Heart of Glass needs your Blenko and West Virginia Glass photos and stories. Please send to theblenkoproject@aol.com. Note: Please do not send photos from other websites w/o permission of the owner.

Its not easy to find a good Blenko Collectors Group!

Elle - The folks at Blenko Glass hear our voices re: the need to support a Blenko Collectors group. Family owned businesses in these economic times are struggling. Be patient, keep buying Blenko.
When you purchase directly from the factory and encourage your friends to buy new Blenko - you are supporting the factory.
hjh

Hillary Saw this card and had to purchase for you. I'd like to add
its very difficult to find not only a good dentist but a Blenko Glass Collectors group and a Blenko Blog.
Please return to the daily publishing of this blog.

For those of us new enough never to 'know' a Blenko Collectors Group this is all
we have.
Elle

Blog Reader Shares New York City - Blenko Shopping

Hilary.

Last week I did my annual 10 days in New York City. Saw a few plays, did a lot of shopping and browsing in antique shops.

My partner loves MOMA thus one day and evening was devoted to the Museum of Modern Art.

If you haven't been I recommend you all visit immediately. I ask about Blenko Glass. After some research a curator told me MOMA does own 5 pieces of Blenko and I could view them on line only.

I am attaching the photos from MOMA website. I found only 2 photos. This pitcher I own in a green color and the ash try is now on my list of 'must haves.'

Blenko is in every city. When you travel ask if shopkeepers have Blenko. In Short Hills, NJ of all places I found a Wayne Husted decanter for $275. This purchase kept me happy for days.

Thank you for allowing me to share.

Mountain Rita

Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass in Milton, WV is OPEN

each and every weekend.

Each visit - I encourage you to check the clearance tables and look in the boxes near the back wall for

items no longer made, or over runs - the prices are very low.

When you visit BLENKO GLASS www.blenkoglass.com don't forget to walk up the steps and visit the Blenko Museum of Glass also if time permits walk around the property.
The lake is beautiful, full of catfish, the ducks are available and willing to take your left over snacks.

Blenko Glass installed a dozen picnic tables last year. Blenko welcomes you to stay awhile and enjoy the property.

Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass has made bookends in the shape of Clams, Shells, Cats, Owls etc.

If your interest includes collecting solid glass bookends, think BLENKO GLASS.

This photos is from Margie who lives in Connecticut, Margie makes a trip to Blenko Glass twice each year to purchase glass for herself and her friends.

Do you collect Blenko Glass? If so - we welcome your photos and Glass Collecting stories - send to theblenkoproject@aol.com.

SALE - Blenko Glass

Check out the Blenko Glass wenbsite - www.blenkoglass.com.
You'll find the clam shell bowl ( see photo ) in a variety of colors. This item and many others are listed under the SALE tab. Return to the Blenko Glass website frequently for coupons off - and to check the reduced price items - look under the SALE tab.

Remember #1)BLENKO GLASS is made in the USA. #2) Blenko always has the perfect gift - for every occasion.
#3) Blenko Glass is famous for magnificent color and timeless design.

www.blenkoglass.com

Check out the Blenko Glass website.
Coupon for % off and photos of the current items being offered by
Blenko Glass.

Relay For Life

Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com has created a unique line of pendants and key chains. The Relay For Life (shown here) is the most recent addition.

These can be worn on a cord, or used as a charm. Blenko Glass donates a portion of the price to the American Cancer Society.

Wheaton Arts Announcing New Fall Workshops and Classes

Wheaton Arts will be having several interesting glass classes this Fall -- See pages 6 and 7 of this PDF:
http://www.wheatonarts.org/topnav/education/cefall2010/FW2010WorkshopsClasses.pdf


Glass Casting: Tree of Life

Saturdays and Sundays
October 9 &10 and October 16 & 17
(4 sessions)
9am to 6pm
Members $400 / Non Members $450

The tree of life, an old Mexican tradition,
is a beautiful, non-verbal, yet narrative
form of art depicting birth, life and death;
a construction of moments, passages and
people. For this exciting workshop we in-
vite each student to create their own tree
of life while exploring the expressive po-
tential of hot casting glass. By using a sand
bed as their canvas, students will take ob-
jects from their lives and press them into
the sand, leaving a mark on the sand creat-
ing a story or an autobiographical narrative.
Students will then add colors and inclusions
and finally will fill the impressions with glow-
ing molten glass. Once cooled, the glass ob-
jects can be used to create a mixed-media
assemblage. Ages: 18 - Adult; Class limit: 10;
Location: Glass Studio.
Instructor: Luisa Restrepo

Hot Glass Pumpkins!

Wednesdays
October 20 to November 3 (3 sessions)
6:30pm to 9:30pm
Members $235 / Non-Members $250
Color fee: $50

Do you want fun, decorative, harvest fruit
that stays fresh all year long? Well, come
join us and blow your own glass pumpkins!
In this three week workshop, students will
learn a variety of techniques to create their
very own collection of this popular October
squash. Using varying steel molds and spe-
cial color combinations, students will learn
how to twist and swirl hot glass into crea-
tive and unique pumpkin shapes! Prerequi-
site: None. Ages: 16 - Adult; Class limit: 6;
Location: Glass Studio.
Instructor: Karin Kozlowski


Glass Ornament Workshop

Wednesdays
December 1,
8 & 15
(3 sessions)
6:30pm to
9:30pm
Members $235 /
Non-Members
$250
Color fee: $50

Colorful and fast-paced, glass ornaments are an exciting
way to enhance your glass skills and create unique gifts/keepsakes for the holidays! A variety of colorful surface, and interior, designs will be explored in this three-week intensive. Students will also explore the optic mold as well as “alternative” shapes to give their ornaments their own creative twists! Pre-requisite: None. Ages: 16 - Adult; Class
limit: 6; Location: Glass Studio.
Instructor: Karin Kozlowski and
WheatonArts Staff


This notice is from Blogger friend Tony Patti

New Paperweight Website

Recall the post about paperweights? "CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN PAPERWEIGHT ARTISTS":

Drew Ebelhare has a new website: www.ebelharepaperweights.com.

Check out Drew's new paperweights.

www.blenkoproject.org

The Blenko Project www.blenkoproject.org is in the process of updating the web site. If you or a family member worked for Blenko - we'd like to hear from you, please write to theblenkoproject@aol.com . We're looking for old photos, oral histories, and most any Blenko Glass information you can share.
The Blenko Project is devoted to preserving the history of BLENKO GLASS.
hjh

Blenko Stained Glass Window

Rainbow Studios in Downtown Memphis is fabricating a large outdoor stained-glass installation that Memphians will be able to view just by driving down Walnut Grove or Humphreys Boulevard.

Employees of the studio at 400 S. Front recently unloaded in its basement 10,000 pounds of 1-inch thick, 8-by-12-inch slabs of glass in 75 colors to begin work on the installation, which will sit in front of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis' new 250-plus-seat educational auditorium.


A rendering shows the free-standing stained-glass panels and bell tower at the new Baptist auditorium. Courtesy of Earl Swensson Associates
The stained glass, set to be installed at the hospital at 6019 Walnut Grove in September or October, includes three free-standing panels, each 8 feet wide and 19 feet tall, and three panels installed in the auditorium's bell tower, each 8 feet wide and 45 feet tall.

The auditorium, which faces Walnut Grove, sits between two physicians office buildings, east of the patient tower.

The free-standing panels will be a few feet in front of the curved auditorium (the concrete blocks and steel framework are in place now waiting for the stained glass). The bell tower is free standing from the auditorium and will have stained glass in the east, north and west sides. The south backs up to the auditorium.

"It (the installation) will sit facing Walnut Grove, so because of its layout and its physical size, it will be highly visible. It's one of the first things visitors will be able to see," said Ric Ransom, assistant administrator for Baptist.

"I've done my research on the Internet, and the largest sculpture of this kind I've found is 6 feet," said studio owner Dan Oppenheimer. "Blenko (Glass Co.) says it's the largest as

well."

Established in 1893, Blenko of Milton, W.Va., Rainbow's primary glass supplier on the project, is one of the oldest stained-glass suppliers in the U.S.

"It has the potential to be a real knockout," Oppenheimer said.

The hospital sent out proposal requests to three Mid-South stained-glass firms in December and opted for Rainbow because of its design approach and its long history with the hospital. Rainbow created many stained-glass features for the old Baptist Hospital on Union.

"You have to think of where it is, on Walnut Grove and Humphreys, and think in terms of if another Hurricane Elvis came through. It would flop it to pieces," Oppenheimer said. "Rather than approach it as a design component, I looked at it as an engineering problem."

With the assistance of independent designer Jerry House of Memphis, Oppenheimer proposed using the Dalle De Verre method, also known as faceted glass, first used in European churches and primarily used in architectural applications. This sets dalles, or thick glass tiles, formerly in stone or concrete and now in epoxy.

Oppenheimer and his crew begin pouring next week, and will take a couple of months to complete the process.

"It's all done by hand, which is time-consuming, because it's the old craft style," House said.

The team of six or seven will assemble 126 sections, each 3-by-4 feet and weighing 125 pounds.

The process includes cutting the glass slabs with a diamond saw to shape, laying them out on sand-covered paper according to House's pattern, and pouring the molasses-like charcoal-colored epoxy between the glass.

Workers will then chip off extruding glass to give it a "jewel-like" appearance.

"It makes this semi-circular bridge, kind of like the bottom of a Coke bottle that's been chipped, so that to people driving by, it seems extremely lively. It creates this sparkle over the whole thing," House said. "And the negative space between the glass is very much a design element as well."

House at first came up with a traditional-style design for the panels, but evolved into a more contemporary, abstract look.

"I'm going for a spirit of movement to represent life and energy," House said.

Some of the panels will feature Bible verses to represent the Baptist mission, which is "Healing, preaching and teaching."

The three verses chosen by Baptist staff members include Exodus 15:26, "For I am the Lord who heals you"; Mark 16:15, "Preach the good news to all creation"; and Psalm 143:10, "Teach me to do your will, for you are my God."

"The idea of the stained glass is something people typically associate with churches. It's a very Baptist-y thing to do, and Dan's knowledge of that preference is an important value brought to the project," said Nick Lewis, assistant director of facility services for Baptist. "Not a lot of folks can do this work. He's a specialist at what he's doing, and he's been able to come up with something incredibly durable and highly resistant in addition to being very beautiful."

Once the panels are complete, Oppenheimer says it will take about a week to install, with A&H Glass overseeing the installation.

There will be a separate dedication of the stained-glass installation following the Sept. 15 dedication of the auditorium. Earl Swensson Associates of Nashville, the architectural firm and interior designer for the auditorium, came up with the concept for a stained glass installation.

Not only is he excited about taking on such a large challenge, but Oppenheimer also hopes the project will have an infectious effect on the city.

"It's really exciting, and hopefully it will start a movement toward more public art projects," he said.

Stained glass installation at Baptist hospital will dazzle passers-by this fall.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/jul/22/glass-showcase/

Museum Building Campaign Wildly Successful at MAG in WV

Weston, WV – CAMPAIGN SUCCESS: THE MUSEUM IS OURS !

Match the Money—and the Museum Is Ours! was the rallying cry that launched an ambitious fund drive for the Museum of American Glass in West Virginia at the 19th annual Glass Gathering held at the museum in Weston, West Virginia on Friday October 23, 2009. Now 6 months later and the results from the campaign are in. Campaign co-chairs, Jeff Evans of Jeffrey S. Evans Auctions and Dean Six, Executive Director of the museum are pleased to announce it has met and exceeded its goal in the six month long "Match The Money and The Museum is Ours" building campaign fund drive.

In October 2009, an anonymous donor offered to match, dollar for dollar, donations up to $45,000. The $90,000 amount would allow the Museum’s current mortgage to be retired and the not-for-profit Museum would own its home free and clear of any debt. Success seemed apparent from the outset as individual donors, community organizations and numerous glass collecting clubs stepped forward to donate. The museum holds an impressive array of American-made glass, the collection of objects from the National Marble Museum, glass making tools, an extensive library of glass industry information and the American Flint Glass Workers Union archives.

As of April 25, 2010, six months after the campaign began; the total raised by the campaign is $105,803. A public mortgage note burning ceremony is planned. The money raised over and above that needed to pay the $90,000 mortgage will be used to earn yet another dollar for dollar match. The Museum is submitting a proposal to the State of West Virginia for funds to renovate and make climate controlled the 2nd floor archival storage area. The archives include, among thousands of other items, the nationally significant collection from the American Flint Glass Workers Union.

In 2009, the Museum of American Glass in West Virginia became the residence for the artifacts of the American Flint Glass Workers Union now displayed in the public area on the first floor. The second floors houses over 100 years of archives and research materials of the AFGWU, glass catalogs and other valuable industry research documents in the archives storage area. The second floor area will benefit from the second matching funds being sought to provide much needed air conditioning and heating to preserve these and other valuable American glass history documents.


The Museum of American Glass in West Virginia is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day noon to 4:00pm. The balance of the year the museum is open daily noon to 4:00pm and closed on Wednesday and Sunday. Admission is free. It is easily accessible off I-79 exit 99 onto US 33 West for two miles to Main Avenue. A left turn onto Main and the museum is on the left at 230 Main Avenue. Begun in 1992, the museum relocated to its present location in 2007 and occupies 12,000 square feet with over 7,000 pieces of glass on permanent display. The museum is home to the National Marble Museum and The American Flint Glass Workers Union Archives. The museum holds an annual marble festival and numerous special exhibits throughout the year. More information can be found at http://wvmag.bglances.com/. Questions about programs or the museum can be directed to 304-269-5006.

###

Festival Of Glass Classes

Glass Blowing Workshop

$350.00 per person. Class limited to 8 participants. This workshop will allow you to participate in each step that is necessary to create a piece of handmade glass. The process will begin with making the ball, then gathering the glass that will become the finished piece, blowing the glass, sticking up the glass using a pontil to reheat the glass then continue to the finishing process, where the glass is sheared and opened up to the desired width. Finally, the glass will be carried to the lehr to begin the annealing process that takes 4-4 ½ hours. Participants will work with all shop members as they learn the process of making a piece of glass. Participants will be able to work on at least 2-3, if not more pieces each. Glass pieces will be available either later on Friday or Saturday in the shipping department. If you are unable to stay long enough to pick up during the Festival, please leave instructions for shipping.

Paperweight Class

$40.00 per person. Class is limited to 15 participants, ages 12-up. Each participant will choose the colors of glass frit They want to see inside the paperweight. Product will be available for pick-up in the gift shop later that day or can be shipped to your home. Please let us know how you want to handle picking up your product.

Lg. Windchime/Mobile Class

$60.00 per person. Class is limited to 15 participants. Create a wonderful display of art that can hang inside or outside your home. You will create a one-of-a-kind piece with Blenko kiln-fired sheet glass pieces. These pieces are reminiscent of Old-fashioned ribbon candy but reflect the beauty of Blenko's vibrant colors. Each person will be able to take home their creation immediately


Sm. Dreamcatcher Class

$30.00 per person. Class is limited to 15 participants. Create a wonderful piece of art using Blenko Kiln-fired sheet glass pieces cut in unique shapes and sizes. You will create a single strand dreamcatcher that you will be able to take home immediately.

Lg. Dalle Chipping Class

$125.00 per person. Class is limited to 6 participants, ages 14-up. Turn your artistic vision into a work of art by chipping away at a slab of glass. This class offers you the opportunity to learn the techniques involved in faceted glass art. A Fun-filled class that is approx. 2 hours long that will allow you to experience the art of glass design. Each person will be able to take home their own faceted glass art creation. The item will be available 4-5 hours after the class ends or it can be shipped to your home. 18 x 18 panel.

Sm. Dalle Mosaic Class

$40.00 per person. Class limited to 10 participants, parental supervision requested under age 10. Use your imagination to create a glass art panel using various shapes of Blenko glass including dalle de verre slabs. Participants will create their design themselves and a Blenko employee will assist in the finishing process. The item will be available 4-5 hours after the class ends or it can be shipped to your home. 8 x 8 panel.

Miniature Class

$40.00 per person. Class is limited to 10 participants, adult supervision under age 12. This is a wonderful chance for anyone who has ever wondered what it feels like to work in a glass factory to try it out. During this class you will learn to cast some of Blenko's Miniature figurines, including animals, hearts, etc. Each person gets to take home two of their creations. The items will be available 4-5 hours after the class ends or can be shipped to your home.
New Classes for 2010

Stepping Stone Mosaic Class

$20.00 per person. Class is limited to 10 participants. A great class for kids. A variety of forms will be available to choose from. A fun way to create your own custom garden stone using colorful glass gems made by West Virginia's own Marble King, based in Paden City, WV. Item will be available the next day for pick up.

Christmas Ornament Class

$35.00 per person. Class is limited to 6 participants. Each participant will choose their own frit colors and assist our skilled craftsmen in creating their very own one-of-a kind round Christmas ornament that can be displayed and shared with their family and friends. Ornament will be available 4-5 hours after the class ends or the next day.

Stained Glass Panel Class

$65.00 per person. Class is limited to 6 participants. You will learn the basic steps required to make a stained glass panel and will then create your own unique piece with the assistance of Blenko employees. You will learn basic cutting, grinding and soldering techniques during this class. You will be able to take your creation with you immediately.
Sign-up Today!!!

If you are interested in participating in any of the classes, call us at 877-425-3656.

3rd Annual Festival of Glass

The 3rd annual Festival of Glass event will be held at the Blenko Glass factory on Friday, August 6th & Saturday, August 7th. Free parking will be available, and visitors will have the rare opportunity to view our skilled artisans at work and participate in a variety of classes related to the glass making process (fees apply). A schedule of classes and events along with a class description for each class can be seen below. If you are interested in participating in a class please sign up early because class space is limited and classes are filling up fast.

Schedule:
Friday, August 6
8am-5pm
8:00 Welcome!! Visitor Center Open. Be sure to get your free
Blenko commemorative medallion. Free refreshments
and cake available upstairs in the Visitor Center for a
limited time.

8:00-3:15 Glassblowing Demonstrations

8:00-5:00 Red Wynn of Louisville, KY will be demonstrating the
primitive art of flintknapping & the reproduction of
arrowheads using Blenko glass. Products will be
available for purchase outside in front of the Visitor
Center.

8:00-12:00 Glassblowing Workshop $350.00 8 Participants

8:00-9:30 Sm. Dreamcatcher Class $30.00 15 Participants

9:00 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

9:00-11:00 Walter Blenko signing event in gift shop

9:00-10:00 Miniature Casting Class $40.00 10 Participants

9:00-10:30 Paperweight Class $40.00 15 Participants

10:00-11:30 Sm. Dalle Mosaic Class $40.00 10 Participants

10:00-11:30 Lg. Mobile/Windchime Class $60.00 15 Participants

10:00-12:30 Lg. Dalle Chipping Class $125.00 6 Participants

10:30-12:00 Christmas Ornament Class $35.00 6 Participants

10:30-1:30 Stained Glass Panel Class $65.00 6 Participants

11:00 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

11:00-1:00 W. H. Blenko signing event in gift shop

11:30-1:00 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class $20.00 10 Participants

12:00 Lunch (The Buffalo Grill food vendor on site & picnic
area)

1:00-2:00 Miniature Casting Class $40.00 10 Participants

1:00 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

1:00-3:00 Walter Blenko signing event in gift shop

1:00-2:30 Paperweight Class $40.00 15 Participants

1:00-2:30 Sm. Dreamcatcher Class $30.00 15 Participants

2:00-3:30 Christmas Ornament Class $35.00 6 Participants

2:30-4:00 Lg. Mobile/Windchime Class $60.00 6 Participants

*Time allotted for classes is approximate

Saturday, August 7
9am-5pm
9:00 Welcome!! Visitor Center Open. Special Limited Edition
Craftsmen pieces go on sale in the gift shop. Each
shop has created a unique signed piece. There are 50
pieces available for each blown tableware shop and 100
pieces available from the spin/cast shop. Be sure to get
your free Blenko commemorative medallion. Free
refreshments and cake available upstairs in the Visitor
Center for a limited time

9:00-3:15 Glassblowing Demonstrations

9:00-11:00 Walter Blenko signing event in gift shop.

9:00-5:00 Red Wynn of Louisville, KY will be demonstrating the
primitive art of flintknapping & the reproduction of
arrowheads using Blenko glass. Products will be
available for purchase outside in front of the Visitor
Center.

9:30-1:30 Glassblowing Workshop $350.00 8 Participants

9:30 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

9:30-11:00 Sm. Dreamcatcher Class $30.00 15 Participants

10:00-11:00 Miniature Casting Class $40.00 10 Participants

10:00-11:30 Paperweight Class $40.00 15 Participants

10:00-11:30 Christmas Ornament Class $35.00 6 Participants

11:00-1:00 W. H. Blenko signing event in gift shop

11: 00-12:30 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class $20.00 10 Participants

11: 00-1:00 93.7 "The Dawg" Live Radio Remote (be sure to sign up
for giveaways during the broadcast)

11:00 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

12:00 Lunch (The Buffalo Grill food vendor on site & picnic
area)

12:30-2:00 Lg. Mobile/Windchime Class $60.00 6 Participants

12:30-3:30 Stained Glass Panel Class $65.00 6 Participants

1:00 Guided Factory Tour (please assemble upstairs in Visitor
Center)

1:00-3:00 Walter Blenko signing event in gift shop

1:00-2:30 Sm. Dalle Mosaic Class $40.00 10 Participants

1:00-2:30 Paperweight Class $40.00 15 Participants

1:00-2:30 Christmas Ornament Class $35.00 6 Participants

1:00-3:30 Lg. Dalle Chipping Class $125.00 6 Participants

*Time allotted for classes is approximate

2010 GAS Conference

Dear Members and Friends of the Glass Art Society,

Here is the announcement you all have been waiting for. In line with our mission, the Board of Directors of the Glass Art Society is happy to announce that the 2011 Glass Art Society Conference will be held in Seattle, Washington, June 1-4, 2011. The 2011 conference will also feature a Day of Glass in Tacoma, WA, on Wednesday, June 1, 2011.

This 2011 Conference will celebrate the community and diversity of glass throughout the country and the world.

We know from listening to you that one of the most important aspects of the GAS conference experience to you is connecting with other artists. We are working to make an intimate conference experience for you with the downtown Sheraton Seattle as the conference hotel, which features a Pilchuck Glass Collection and plenty of spaces for networking and connecting. Some of the 2011 GAS Conference features will be the Pre-conference Fundraising Reception at Dale Chihuly’s Boat House; lectures and the auction at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel; and Technical Display, lectures, and demos on the CMoG Hot Glass Road Show across the street at the Washington State Convention Center. A variety of demos will also be held at Pratt Fine Arts Center and Seattle Glassblowing Studio. The Closing Night Party will be held at the recently expanded Seattle Art Museum, just blocks away from the Sheraton. Special tours to Pilchuck Glass School will be offered on Sunday, June 5.

The featured Day of Glass in Tacoma, WA, on Wednesday, June 1, 2011, will offer demos at the Museum of Glass and studios, and free admission to the Tacoma Art Museum.

Mark the dates on your calendar! More information will follow. See you in Seattle in 2011.