Blenko Glass Company, Milton, WVa. LABOR DAY!

In my family as in most West Virginia Families, Labor Day is a time for being together as a family. We most often spend this holiday at the ocean.  We always spend the holiday with family, playing games, eating and watching sports.
Many Blenko Glass Collectors bring out their Red, White & Blue glass for  the table ware and Blenko for the flowers.   My Aunt Hazel used Blenko to hold the small USA Flags she placed on the picnic tables.  IN West Virginia, handcrafted glass is a way of life.  Long before the 'back to basics or back to nature' movement.  West Virginians were using and enjoy handcrafted glass.  Glass often made by their friends and neighbors.

Labor Day is observed in the U.S. on every first Monday in September as a day to recognize the contributions of American workers of all industries to the U.S. economy. It is also meant to give workers a well-earned day off to relax at home or to get out for recreation.

To many, Labor Day marks the end of the summer season, even as Memorial Day marks its beginning. Many see Labor Day as their last chance to get out and take a vacation before summer is gone, and many workers get a two-week annual vacation period with Labor Day Weekend right in the middle of the two weeks off.

Most U.S. schools restart classes, after the long summer break, about a week before Labor Day. Others schools, however, resume classes on the day after Labor Day, thus allowing families to get in their last taste of summer before the school year gets underway.

Parents if your child's school doesn't offer a field trip to BLENKO GLASS in Milton, WVa.  make the suggestion at a PTA meeting.   Blenko Glass is one of only three remaining WVa Glass Manufacturers and the only maker of antique stain glass.
Thanks to Bridget for wiki definition of Labor Day.
Enjoy Your Holiday.
HJH

 Below are photos of Red / Blue and Crystal Glass we often use on Labor Day and on Memorial Day.
Wayne Husted after 9/11 made a series that was red blue and crystal...if anyone owns this please share a photo with theblenkoproject@aol.com  We would like to share with our readers, and new collectors. hjh

Blenko Glass Company. Personalize Your Blenko

Blenko Glass - A Touch of Glass

www.westvirginiaglass.com/blenko-glass.html

Blenko Glass Company, specialists in the craft of hand-blown glass, is a family owned and operated company in Milton WV. In business
 The Homburg Family has used A Touch of Glass for over 10 years to personalize Blenko - for weddings, births, birthdays, graduations etc.
Touch of Glass is known for their expertise in etching.

 

Blenko Glass Company. Is This BLENKO?

The Blenko Project

The Blenko Glass Company


Hilary,
  These belonged to my Maw Maw, she has them label Blenko Glass.  
I can't find these in the on line catalogs.
Can you assist?
Lynsey McD

Lynsey,
These are Fostoria candlesticks.  I cant remember the name of the design, first check the Fostoria Glass Collectors group.  If you can't find an answer.  Contact us again, and I'll do the research. HJH

Fostoria Candlestick

Blenko Glass Company. IS This Blenko?

The Blenko Project is about 18 months behind in responding to emails from collectors, wanna be collectors, and friends of Blenko.   We lost two of our most valued volunteers in December 2015, and 19 months ago we lost Dr Vivek Yadav our webmaster.  We have yet to find replacements.

While we apologize for the backlog.  We will respond to all letters.

I'm publishing a few this week.   Easy answer letters that do not require research.
Hillary

Hillery is this BLENKO?

This is NOT Blenko.  It was sold in large quantities at the 'Tuesday Morning' store.  Blenko Glass did make a heart bud vase, very similar in size, the Blenko heart was 99% of the time done in crystal and is much heavier than this imitation.
Thank you for the photo, for reading and for purchasing in the future Blenko Glass.
HJH

The Blenko Project
The Blenko Glass Company
 

MCM Glass Symposium this weekend in Weston WV

The Museum of American Glass in West Virginia will host its 4th annual American Mid-Century Modern Glass Symposium on Friday and Saturday in Weston

Registration for the symposium is $79, which includes both days of activities and two meals. For those who are Museum of American Glass members, the cost is $69.

The symposium will be held at the museum, which is located at 230 Main Ave. in Weston.

To attend, call the museum at (304) 269-5006, although same-day registration is welcome.

http://www.magwv.com/

Read more at: http://www.theet.com/news/local/th-annual-glass-symposium-returning-to-the-museum-of-american/article_2675dd8c-b9c7-59d9-8dce-0e8c5b2032f7.html

Blenko Glass Company. IS this Blenko?

Hilery,
Sending photo.  Is this Blenko?
I can not find in catalogues.
Adam G.

Adam,
I know this to be  Blenko - it was made for a fund raiser WV Museum of Glass conducted a few years ago.  You are correct it is NOT in the catalog.
At the time of purchase the Museum valued this at $100 ( approx.).
   It is a nice almost one of a kind piece of Blenko.  Thank you for sharing this photo.
HJH
The Blenko Project
The Blenko Glass Company

Blenko Glass Company. Texas Glass Collector

HI Doc,
Juts wanted to send along this nice pair of Myers and Husted sheared top vases. The Tangerine vase on the left is Joel Myers designed Blenko #6923 with an earlier design of Wayne Husted, a Blenko #6317. The Myers design only has the dimples on two sides as opposed to an earlier design by Husted that all four sides have the pattern. The Husted vase is Jonquil and has a rose image on one side of the vase.

Two nice examples of Blenko vases where the tops have been cut off and ground.

Hope your readers find this useful,
Bruce S.

Blenko Glass Company. Blenko -Husted Design #627L Peacock

Specht Collection - Blenko Glass 

HI Doc,
A trio of Peacock decanters is next. From the left is a Myers design Blenko #646 optic body decanter, a Husted design Blenko#627-L in crackle, and another Myers design Blenko #6528-S.

Hope that the group enjoys as well,
Bruce S.

Blenko Glass Company. Faded Jade Vase and Bowl

HI Doc,
Sometimes even a mistake can take on it's own beauty. All three of these pieces are in Blenko Jade or were supposed to be as is the case of the two vases on the right. Both of these were supposed to be solid Jade but the gathering and blowing process produced these fade patterns where the turquoise covering the jonquil base color was too thin to achieve an even jade coloring. As with most Jade pieces and as illustrated in the bowl if you are wondering if a piece is Jade or another Blenko green, just look at the edges as you hold the piece up to strong light. If you see the turquoise "edges" you are holding an example of Jade.The three examples here are, from the left, a Blenko #3744, a Blenko #5824, and a Blenko # 533.

Hope this helpful,
Bruce S.

Blenko Glass Company. Vintage Blenko Glasses

Hi Hillary,
I refer to these as the "Big Brother" and "Little Brother". These are Husted designed optic vases in Tangerine. The smaller is a Blenko #601 and the larger is a Blenko #602.

Really sparkle in some good strong light.

Hope you enjoy as well,
Bruce S.

Blenko Glass Company. Steve Bair Collection

We recently heard the Steve and Margie Bair collection of Blenko Glass will be in an upcoming sale.
When we have more info or photos we'll publish this information.

Steve and Margie Bair were very active in the Blenko Glass Collectors Society.  They have the most remarkable collection of HUSTED signed glass,  they have a large collection of WVa Birthday Vases,
and other items too numerous to mention.
Both Steve and Margie are artist - and have an eye for the unique and perfect .
You'll want to check out this collection when it's offered.

This weekend I'll attempt to get more information and photos for your viewing.
HJH

BLENKO GLASS Company. Festival of Glass

Blenko Glass Company.   The Festival of Glass is this weekend.   Glass Classes and the ability to meet Blenko Glass staff.

Consider visiting the shops of Milton  ( across street from street light)
and the Milton Flea Market for vintage Blenko Glass.

If you have not been to Milton,  let me be the first to Welcome You to one of
West Virginia's finest small towns.

If you need info about hotels or places to eat - ask at Blenko or send an email to theblenkorproject@aol.com and we'll send you a packet of info.
HJH
Blenko Glass
The Blenko Project

Festival Of Glass. Blenko Glass Company

Festival of Glass is this weekend.
Need info phone 304 743 9081

Also you may check BLENKO GLASS COMPANY. 

If you haven't made plans - its not too late.  Several glasses have some vacancies
and you'll meet the world's finest craftspeople and people who love BLENKO GLASS
and West Virginia.

See you there!

BLENKO GLASS COMPANY> Festival of Glass Aug 5 -6 in Milton

The 9th Annual Festival of Glass event will be held at the Blenko Glass factory on Friday, August 5 & Saturday, August 6. 

During this event, visitors will have the rare opportunity to view our skilled artisans at work as well as be able to participate in a variety of classes related to the glass making process (fees apply & sign-ups required. Call us  (304) 743-9081 or (877) 425-3656 with questions and to sign up). 

Descriptions of our newly designed Special Edition Items as well as a class schedule with remaining openings can be seen below. 

NOTE:  If you attend please send photos for sharing on this blog.

Blenko Glass Company

Hilary On my last trip to Blenko I noticed they had drilled holes in bowls and they were attached to the walls?  Can they withstand the elements?  Also what did they use to keep the bowls on the wall?  It lookis like screws?
Can you provide more info?   Robert Shelton

Robert,  In this photo it appears the bowls are predrilled and then attached with rubber washers and bolts.  We 'll send note to Dean Six  - Blenko Glass and ask for additional info.
Hillary 

Joel Myers Designed Panels with Blenko Glass Bowls ( flowers) on the walls.

MORE Blenko Glass In the Garden.

We hope these photos of the Joel Myers 'Gardeen of Glass'  which was recently revamped under the direction of Dean Six inspires you to visit BLENKO GLASS.   The Garden of Glass  like the Self Guided Glass Demonstration is free of charge.

 

Blenko Glass In YOUR Gardens

If you have Blenko Glass in your garden...please share a photo with Blog readers.  It's almost time to begin the garden clean  up....this would be an ideal time to add glass in the bare spots left by annuals.

What Do Gardeners Want Most? Could it Be Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com in the Garden?

Thank You to reader Maggie for this close up of the Bottle Tree  - with Top Hat

Can you recognize these? 

Joel Myers Panels in background - Blenko Glass brick used as border for circle bed.

West Virginia University

Do you have a student  - who is graduating or just going off to West Virginia University or Marshall University?   If so   -  you'll want to gift the student with a Blenko Glass Company logo item.

 

Each year we see more Blenko Glass being used in  pre and post game parking lot parties.   Blenko Logo items holding flowers or drinks.

BLENKO GLASS  www.bloenkoglass.com .

Blenko Glass Bottle Art Tree

Hillery,
Can you tell me what they used to make the bottle tree in Blenko yard?
I have many bottles and stoppers but need to know how they are staying on the tree.  I want to use some of my Mom's milky and sick  older pieces to make this as a surprise for her. 
Alex S.

Alex,   We'll send a note to Dean Six  and ask where they purchased the metal hangers and also the rubber inserts ( see photo below).
Good luck with your recreation of the Blenko Glass Bottle Tree.   HJH

Marshall University LOGO Items Made by Blenko Glass located in Milton, W.Va.

Ernie Downey - Glass Artist

 One of the nicest things about Blenko Glass ,  Blenko Glass Company in Milton, W.Va   is you never know what you'll find -  what treasure you'll find - in the Visitors Center Gift Shop.

Ernie Downey - a glass artist -  we own a few of his pieces of jewelry using sterling or silver based metals and Blenko Glass. 
Ernie Downey's work is sold in many bouquets in  the tri state.  Ernie uses BLENKO GLASS in his designs.
Pictured above is one of his latest creations - I'm calling it a paddle - but I would envision a group of three or four hung in a kitchen.  
Beautiful  yet very functional. 

Blenko Glass Company. Blenko In The Yard

Photos:  Examples of Blenko Glass used in a Garden.

These photos were taken at Blenko Glass in Milton, WVa.

Many  of the items seem are sold separately or as a garden ornament at the Blenko Glass Visitors Center.  BUT use these are a point of inspiration and design your own " unique" Blenko Garden Art.

Blenko Project www.blenkoproject.org Seeking Volunteers.

The Blenko Project www.blenkoproject.org  needs volunteers .

If you have  a few hours each week to devote to the website  please send us a note.
Include your name and contact info.
Thank You
Hillary 

Who Is That Lady?

Who Is That Lady - an oldie but goodie from the Isley Brothers. 

Some time ago - we had a couple dozen emails asking -  Who is that Lady making glass at Blenko.

Well,  she now has made a name for herself  as a glass worker.

Brennda Ellis is her name - when you visit the Blenko Visitor Center look for stain glass items and special items made by Brenda Ellis.
Ask the Visitors Center Clerk for assistance.

We hope to publish photos of Brenda's work later this month.

If you own glass made by Brenda Ellis from Blenko - please share photos.

Blenko Glass Company Water Bottle

The single longest running item in the Blenko line is the Blenko Water Bottle.

Blenko now makes this item in 2 sizes and multiple colors and styles.

What we like most about the water bottle - is its affordable ( great gift for under $50 - often found at the Visitors Center for under $25)   can be given  with or without flowers.
It represents out STATE,  it can be a going away, or with engraving a gift for most any occasion.

Our favorite Blenko Water Bottles are used for flowers, or OJ, or mineral water.
The Blenko Waterbottle  its a perfect gift for all occasions.

Blenko Water Bottle in mid century table scape

Use Your Blenk or Display Only Your Blenko ?

This is often a serious question for the 'new collector'   do I use or just display my Blenko.

My parents have collected Blenko and WVa Glass for 45 years - they use everything except
some large Husted Pieces,   a couple unique Joel Myers items,  and the recently acquired sloped shoulder vase .
They use the WV Birthday vases to hold fruits and flowers.  Never hot foods.  But they were made to be used - its FACTORY GLASS for the most part.

Each item is gently cleaned after use. 

Don't be afraid to use your Blenko.    Plan your table scape using your Fiesta and Blenko
both are durable and can be used.

As you know we often use our BLENKO GLASS outside - and now Blenko is making items to be used OUTSIDE.   Visit Blenko for ideas ( the Glass Garden)  you can bring home and use in your outdoor space.
Photos OF Blenko on display and being used.  
The Answer is of course BOTH - use and display your Blenko.

Simple - Yet colorful Collection of Blenko and WVa Glass

Blenko Waterbottle 

JULY 4th 2016

Fire Works.    The State Fair.   The Cultural Center.   Home with Friends for Iced Drinks in delightful Blenko Glass pitcher and water glasses. 


Happy July 4th!

July 4th Is Fast Approaching! Blenko Glass Company.

Do you have the needed Red - Blue - Crystal  for your July 4th  Holiday  table setting?

If NOT please visit Blenko Glass this week.
Blenko has an amazing selection of RED   BLUE  and CRYSTAL GLASS table ware
and decorative decanters.


Below:  Photos of Random  BLENKO GLASS in Crystal   Blue and RUBY.  Not an example of current glass.
Visit the Blenko Glass gift shop.   If you buy July 4th - items please send photos.  HJH