Did you know Blenko ware is made using the same methods and tools that the master craftsmen in Europe used hundred of years ago? All workers trained at Blenko are trained on the job and perpetuate a 1000 year old tradition. The workers in glass factories are divided into groups of six called "shops". The shop members each have a specific duty to perform and each task varies in its degree of skill. The Finisher and Blower are the 'two' key members of this team.
The Gather, Stick-up and Carry - In complete the shop. It is essential to the successful completion of a piece of glass that each member of this team performs his task skillfully and faithfully. Just as any team, full cooperation is necessary.
The opertion begins as the gatherer collects a globule of hot glass on the end of a blowpipe. This requires much skill, since the correct amount of glass must be collected, and it must be reasonably symmetrical. Large pieces sometimes require as much as ten pounds of glass. The ball of hot glass is then marveled (rolled on a metal plate). Next, the blowpipe is lifted into the air and with a gentle puff the workman traps air in the pipe (called thumbing out) and this air pocket emerges at the end of the pipe into the hot ballof glass. With a wet, coop-shaped block and paddle of wood the iron tong (pucella) shapes the glass. It is then shaped to fit the mold oin which it is to be blown. It takes year of experience to accomplish this task repeatedly - it must be done quickly without a moment's hestitation.
Note: The above information was found on second floor of VC - the Blenko Museum
The first Monday of each month - this blog will feature a Blenko Craftsperson, Blenko designer, Blenko employee current or former. You'll get to know more about the individual behind the unique skill. We'll speak with the Finisher, Blower, Carry -IN and Gatherer. In the mean time if you haven't been to visit the Blenko Glass Factory and Outlet in Milton, plan now to do this - see the craftsmen working and purchase the lovely handcrafted tablewares.
5 comments:
Hillary, do you have any recommendations for someone interested in beginning a Blenko collection?
The question should be does Blenko increase in value over time
before you begin a collecton.
In response to recommendations for someone interested in collecting Blenko - -
buy what you love, then if it increases in value you are a double winner -
my next bit of advise is to get out websites (www.blenkoproject.org)
follow the links and see what is available - then search for what you find most beautiful.
Signed and number Blenko pieces are more likely to increase in value.
Several Wayne Husted lines have increased by 600% or more in value from time of purchase.
Do some research and then either email me at theblenkoproject.org or post on the blog.
Start collecting soon!
Does Blenko increase in value?
Pleae check out ebay . . Blenko does increase in value.
One of the Blenko lines my family collects the WV Birthday Pieces
which started in 1980 and is still in production - one Blenko item each year sold only on June 20th WV Birthday - signed and number (no more tahn 150 of any item) is a prime example of how Blenko can / does increae in value.
The 1980 piece has sold about three times in the last 2 years. The price has ranged from 800 to 1,800.
The original bowl cost of the 1980 pice was $50 and sold at the Diamond Department Store.
NOTE: This does not guarantee all Blenko will rapidly increase in value - - so buy what you love and want to live with.
Having Blenko in my home - makes me happy - the light reflecting off the color glass, Blenko is unique in color shape and form.
Another comment re: your before you collect make certain it increases in price - - Most people who collect realize the market is fluid - and there collections may or may not increase in value. The collectors I know collect things they love - and then enjoy the increase in value!
Life has few guarantees - other than death and taxes (and I'm too young to be thinking of either).
I've used Blenko in stained glass panels that have found homes across the country. The colors can't be matched anywhere else.
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