Blenko 2011 www.blenkoglass.com

This week I had a note from Margie saying " check out the Blenko online 2011 catalog,' I did and you'll want to also.
This 5929L is being offered in 3 colors for $400. Its 36 inches high.
Water bottle collectors will be delighted to learn there are
a half dozen or more new water bottles.
www.blenkoglass.com You'll want to visit the website and the Blenko Glass Museum and Gift Shop located in Milton, W.Va. (gps directions are on the web site).

Blenko Variations

New collector Sam Tyree frequently writes to ask if I can post photos of the Variations - a limited edition made by Wayne Husted.

I don't own this set. Reader Beth was kind enough to send this photo. The variation collection was a group of 12 bottles - sold in series of 3 - one could buy the entire collection or any three.

It was by subscription only. An authentic Variations bottle would have the signatures of Husted and Blenko.

Should anyone have this collection or photos of the collection they are willing to share, please email theblenkoproject@aol.com.

We believe less than 20 people purchased the entire Variations series.

Blenko Glass - For Your Stain Glass Panels

Hilary,
Can you tell me what Blenko employee did this stain glass panel? We're building a new home and I want a glass panel in the dining room window. The window is 36 x 54. Do I need to provide a drawing or do I list what we would want in the panel? Next question is colors, how do I know what colors Blenko has. With my decorator we are using the crayola color names. Can you give me info about price and also how long it might take. We expect to be moved in within 16 -18 months.
Melody S.

This stain glass artwork is located upstairs of Blenko Glass in what is commonly called 'The Blenko Museum of Glass', the stain glass work was not created by Blenko Glass employees.
I'll write today to ask Blenko who did create this panel and forward the info, or you could phone 304 743 9081 to make this inquiry.
In our area Shoebe Glass located in Huntington, W.Va., Franklin Art Glass in Columbus, Ohio, and Amanda's Stain Glass in Charleston, WVa are stain glass artist that I could recommend.
Blenko Glass floor vases and lamps are available at the Blenko Glass Gift Shop in Milton, WV and on line. HJH
www.blenkoglass.com

Is this Blenko? www.blenkoglass.com

Glassdoc

My questions are:P 1) Is it Blenko?

2) What is it?

Harry W.

Harry,

If this one is Blenko it should have an acid stamp BLENKO on the bottom. Get out the magnifying glass and check.

My best guess is its the bottom l/2 of a Husted decanter. On E-bay one can often time the stopper ( other half) for $14-20.

I've seen the piece you have used as a candle stick - a large chunky candle fits nicely in this decanter.

One other way I've seen this displayed is with a blenko plate then a candle on the plate.

Check out E-Bay or contact Kissin Kate, or one of the other vintage Blenko dealers then ask them to help you acquire a stopper.

Thank you for buying Blenko. hjh

questions? email theblenkoproject@aol.com

Commemorative Event - Think BLENKO

Commemorative plates? Are you hosting an event, a conference, or want to honor someone in a special way?

Blenko Glass may be the answer.

At Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com we can make a special ornament, an engraved block, engrave a water bottle, an unlimited array of products can be engraved.

This photo is of a disc - engraved for a 1968 Glass Tour. It is used as a light catcher - hanging in a window.

Blenko Glass - let Blenko make your special occassion " memorable."

Puppy Dogs www.smallpawsrescue.org

'Blenko, there is a lot of Blenko in my life, when the bichon I would later adopt came in to rescue, I named her Blenko - she was a survivor." Blenko is now known as Ms. B. She was a rescue dog - a throw away dog some 7 years ago. Now she is one very spoiled 'diva' dog.
Take this opportunity to donate money to your shelter. Volunteer at the shelter or with a rescue group. The economy is bad, the need has never been greater than it is today.

The cold and ice is not good for animals. If you own a dog or cat please bring them inside during the cold days and nights - or make certain they have a warm shelter. During winter months animals need a consistent source of food and water.

This is the time of year when the Shelters and Rescue Organizations have the greatest need for money and volunteers.
I volunteer with SMALL PAWS RESCUE http://www.smallpawsrescue.org/ this group is a bred specific group - they rescue only BICHONS.
Ms B (Blenko) is a bichon. (see photo).
Please never buy a dog or cat from a Pet Store. Buy only from an established breeder, better yet ADOPT. Many pure bred dogs are daily up for adoption.
If you can not adopt. Don't have room for a cat or dog. DONATE to a local shelter or Rescue Group. Don't wait any longer, donate today. hjh

ANGELS AND SNOWMEN

This week at Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com, you'll find Angels and Snowmen. The angels and snowmen are available in two sizes.

Previously only the larger size was available.

The SNOWMEN are appropriate for indoor decor from November to March - does anyone think the winter will end? The Angels can be used in home decor all year long, and are an appropriate gift for most any occasion.

BLENKO GLASS 304 743 9081 - handcrafted Snowmen and Angels.

You'll want to purchase now while they are available in several colors.

Sunday - The Very Best Day to SHOP Blenko!

Blenko Glass - 304 743 9081.

Open today.

Clearance table is located in the rear of the Blenko Glass visitor center.

Blenko Glass Gift Shop

Blenko Glass Gift Shop is open now.

The after holiday markdown table is full.

You'll want to visit Blenko this week.

www.blenkoglass.com - the Blenko website is open 24/7.

Don't see what you want - phone 304 743 9081 and ask if the item is available or when it might again become available.

BLENKO GLASS made in the USA.

Blenko Glass handcrafted glass made in West Virginia.

Dollhouse Blenko

A reader sent this article which was orginally published on 12/1/10.
Any Doll house collectors in your circle of friends? If so suggest
they combine this passion with Blenko Glass and use the Blenko minatures in the Doll house!
hjh

http://www.postbulletin.com/news/stories/display.php?id=1441202 Photo / Blenko paperweight

www.blenkoproject.org

Hilary,

Where do I start? I google Blenko and there are hundreds of post.

Margaret Mc

Margaret,

May I suggest you start with http://www.blenkoproject.org/ , The Blenko Project website provides a primer for new collectors - an overview of Blenko Glass Company.

Then move on the the Blenko Collectors Four, The Blenko Collectors website, weekly check the http://www.blenkoglass.com/ website so you are familar with the current line.

Reader Alice H writes she often spends one evening a week, checking out Ebay and reading the new google listings for Blenko Glass.

Joining a glass collectors group ( doesn't have to be Blenko) in your area should be a priority.

Photo: Blenko vases from a Blenko Collection

Randall Reid-Smith

Photo of Randall Reid- Smith ( WV Culture and History).

Hilary

Who is Randal Smith - you said he was the best thing to happen to WV Glass and artist

Who - What - When - Where?

When I google I find nothing about WV and Randall Smith.

Thank you.
Carolee P.

Virginia Beach, Va.

Dear Carolee,

Randall Reid-Smith was appointed Commissioner of Culture and History by

then Governor Manchin in 2006.

He and Jacqueline Proctor are responsible for the program that features WV Artist. WV 's Best. Thus far, BLENKO GLASS, Fenton, Hinkle Glass and the Marble Factory have been honored at the Cultural Center with a month exhibit.

Google Randall Reid-Smith, or visit the State of West Virginia website - all the State Parks, the State Fairs etc are listed.

Thanks for reading and for your support of West Virginia Glass.

Blenko Water Bottle & Other Handcrafted Cards

http://www.etsy.com/therenaissancewoman
Diane Weber of Sunny California - a Blenko Collector and an original member of the Blenko Collectors Society designs and crafts these hand made cards. They are often available at the Blenko Glass Gift Shop and available every day in Diane's Etsy Shop.
I triple matted a few of these - they hang on the wall near my collection of Blenko Glass.
You'll want one in each color. hjh

Can you spot the 'not Blenko' card?

Who is Keith Morris?

Hillary I bought a glass container at Blenko the card says made by Shop # and list the name Keith Morris. Is he retired and what can you tell me of Keith Morris?

Madge Q.

Madge,

Keith Morris is not retired, the Blenko Glass http://www.blenkoglass.com/ and the Blenko Project http://www.blenkoproject.org/ websites list Keith as a 23+ year employee of Blenko Glass.

Can you send a photo of the glass? I think you may have one of the Festival of Glass pieces - they were made by different shops and sold during the Festival of Glass 2010.

Make plans to attend the 2011 Festival of Glass and meet Keith Morris, Randy Rider, Shorty Finley's grandson and other Blenko Glass workers.

HJH

Blenko for Sale cont.

The rest of the collection for sale by Bob in KY.

Also, if anyone have the first 4 WV Birthday Pieces and want to sell? If so, I have a list of 4 buyers.
hjh

#5 13" across; don't know designer

#6 15 1/2" tall 4" top; #8310M by Don Shepard

#7 11" tall; 5" across; don't known designer

#8 14" tall; 2" top; 626M missing stopper Wayne Husted

More photos available on request.

Blenko for Sale

A Blenko Collector is downsizing and has a large Collection of WV Glass for sale. Today and tomorrow I' m posting photos of the glass and
and his descriptions.
If you have an interest send an email to theblenkoproject@aol.com and we'll forward the info.
Thanks for reading and for collecting Blenko and WV Glass.
hjh

#1 8 1/2" tall; 7" across; #629 by Wayne Husted

#2 is 11 3/4T 5" across top, #413' don't know designer

#2 8 1/2: tall; 7" across; #629 by Wayne Husted

#3 12" tall; 4" top; 35: acround; #7829L by Don Shepard

#4 14" tall; 8 1/2 across; #827L by D. Shepard

Blenko Blenko Blenko www.blenkoglass.com

Hilary
Saw this photo and thought about the blog. I think its Blenk and it appears to be a cigar ashtray?
I've seen ashtrays but this is the first bowl for cigar ashes I've seem. Anyone know anything about these? Are there enough so that I might start to collect? I have a collection of humidors. Sam Tyree
Sam I sent notes with the photo to several long time Blenko Collectors - thus far no response. We'll post on the blog, check back for comments. HJH

Glass blowing - " It's what makes me tick as a person"

Our Blog friend Tony Patti sent the article below ( Tony Patti gaffer@glassblower.info).


There is a two-page spread on pages 36 & 37 of the December 2010 / January 2011 issue of Inc. Magazine.

Superimposed on the two-page photograph is this sentence:

"Glass blowing is beyond a hobby for me. It's what makes me tick as a person."

http://www.inc.com/magazine/20101201/ceo-passions-glass-blowing.html

BRUCE SPECHT 'S BLENKO COLLECTION

Bruce writes: ' The second photo is of a nice pair of Myers designed 64D's in Lemon and Peacock. Two good finds from ebay that were mislisted and appear to have never been used. Great optic pieces with very different finishes to the upper lip.'
Enjoy,
Bruce

BRUCE SPECHT PHOTO

Blenko Collector Bruce Specht writes: " As part of a larger effort to get organized I have unpacked all of our collection so that I can choose and pick pieces for photographing. Now, if only the winter sun will cooperate since I do not use any artificial lighting. First up is a nice grouping of Husted designed Tangerine stoppered bottles. From left to right a 626S, 6123M, and 6123S. I especially like the two smaller bottle stoppers that have a tangerine swirl captured inside."

Blenko Glass - www.blenkoglass.com

24 hours a day, the Blenko Glass online website is available to take your orders for Blenko Glass. http://www.blenkoglass.com/.

The website has a coupon for $$$ off which may be used on line or in the Blenko Glass visitor center gift shop.

If you haven't spent all your Holiday money, you might want to hold on to some for the next Blenko Glass Warehouse sale - I've been told its being planned for early spring!

This is a sale in which the warehouse is open to the public - normally only vendors who buy and sell to the public are allowed to purchase from the warehouse.

As soon as the details are completed we'll announce the date.

You might also check daily the http://www.blenkoglass.com/ website for updates and for photos of the current stock.

hjh

photo of pre designer Blenko Glass by Bruce Specht of Texas

Post Holiday Sale - Blenko Glass

Hilary,

What's new at Blenko? Is there a 2011 line?

What do you suggest we purchase?

Madge S.

Madge,

The Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com hasn't been updated to include a 2011 line. If you have not purchased these items ( see photo) you'll want to buy them.

The Bravo line by Bayliss - is retro - these pieces look as if they were made in the 50s and 60s . I like them in ruby which is difficult to find. They are being made now in dreamcicle (sp) which is an orange color new to Blenko ( well not more than 3 - 4 years old).

The other item picture here is an 11 inch optic vase, again this is a remake of a classic design.

I have this one in Blue - the label says it was designed 'in house ' at Blenko.

Don't wait for a new line - buy what you like- the prices have never been better for handcrafted Blenko Glass.

www.blenkoglass.com. Use the online coupon for $$off your purchase.

Learn more about Blenko Glass by reading www.theblenkoproject.org. hjh

2009 Birthday Vase - SOLD

Thank you for your interest in Stevens' glass. I've tried to pass on his email address to all who wrote to theblenkoproject@aol.com . Today He wrote to say he sold the four Blenko Birthday Vases.
If other vases become available I'll post the photo or description - check back.
HJH

2009 West Virginia Birthday Piece

A blog reader is downsizing and has a 2009 WV Birthday Vase he would like to see for $550.

He has several other Birthday Pieces from 2005 forward, he wants to sell also for $550 to $650.

If you have a desire to purchase these items

we will forward your contact info.

West Virginia Birthday Vases have been made since the 1980's we have a list of collectors wanting vases made in the 80's but haven't complied a list to include other Birthday Vases.

This one (photo) was designed by Bayliss Team of Indiana. Arlon Baylis is a glass arts instructor and a well known glass artist.

The vase is of charcoal glass with a crystal (frosted) stopper. Bayliss has designed the last four WV Birthday vase, some folks say the last four have been the most beautiful.

WV Birthday Vases become available on line (ebay) and other vendors on occasion. You might also check local estate sale listings.

If you didn't start a Birthday (BLENKO GLASS) collection in the last 2 decades - why not start one now - begin with the Bayliss inspired pieces and collect from this point in Blenko history forward.

The 2011 Blenko Glass Birthday Vase will be offered in June - check back for more information.

Thank you for buying Made In USA and West Virginia Glass when possible.

hjh

John Nickerson - Blenko Glass Designer

www.nickersonglass.com ( Nickerson's web pages)

Hillary

Call me strange, but I am more attracted to the functional designs of John Nickerson from Blenko.

Anderson and Nickerson both in my humble opinion did functional glass. The form is good, the colors are good. Nothing fancy but all timeless.

Do you know if Blenko does reproductions of Anderson and Nickerson glass?

Carter Z.

Carter Z.

Many Anderson and Nickerson designs remain in the Blenko Glass catalog and are being made.

My suggestion is you bring your catalogs, or favorite photos of Nickerson and Anderson glass designs, then visit Blenko and the antique shops in Milton, and the South Charleston Antique Malls, after this drive up to Charleston, WV and shop Purple Moon ( located in downtown Charleston).

Blenko Glass may have some of the items you desire in the VC (gift shop).

Thank you for your excellent question, thank you for buying WV Glass.

HJH

photo: John Nickerson - Taken at a Blenko Collectors meeting several years ago.

Nickerson continues to work as an artist of glass and ceramics. For information, photos, and how to purchase his current works check out www.nickersonglass.com .

Problems ? email theblenkoproject@aol.com

I Heart Blenko Glass

- Almost 5 years ago - for Heart of Glass we submitted the first post " I Heart Blenko."

Very little has changed. I'm not a fine arts major, I do not possess a wealth of knowledge about glass or Blenko. I am energetic and I will attempt to help you find answers to your glass questions. We'll help you find a glass community, and perhaps a glass mentor.

This blog is a good place for 'new collectors' as we welcome questions, we have a list of sellers of vintage Blenko in most every state. A list of websites and web dealers, and we

welcome photos from vendors.

Our goal is simple. We want everyone to learn about Made In USA - Glass. While our favorite US glass is Blenko. We welcome your questions and photos re: any Made In US glass.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for your support of Made In USA products. While

Blenko Glass in Milton, WV http://www.blenkoglass.com/ is the primary focus of this blog, we welcome all comments and questions and photos. It has been our tradition to republish the now 5 year old I heart Blenko post.

I Heart Blenko -

This blog will focus on the Blenko Glass Company located in Milton, West Virginia. Twice weekly I'll post on Blenko and WV Glass topics, once a month the post will feature an employee or designer from the present or past. Biweekly I'll post photos of individual Blenko made items, and items that are currently available from Blenko. We will offer some background information on the piece and perhaps the steps/ process used to make the item.

I am NOT a fine arts major, a glass expert or an English/Journalism major. I don't have all the glass answers. I am inquisitive, don't mind asking people for answers - I believe in lifelong learning. This blog will I hope be a place where we can learn together.

If you have been to the Blenko Factory, or are a retired or former glass worker or just have photos of unusual Blenko and / or Blenko stories to share - this is the place - I'd love to see/hear them.

For the last 2 years I have spent all my free time traveling to meet former Blenko and other glass workers and designers. I want to learn more about Blenko and W. Va. made glass. . . and I want YOU to THINK before buy glass...who made the glass. The number of glass factories in the US has declined by almost 72% in the last 15 years.

Together we can stop this trend. Be an advocate for MADE IN WV.

Blenko Glass Factory is located in Milton, W.Va., less than 20 minutes from Huntington, W. Va.

Thank You Notes?

Thank you notes, isn't this what you are doing today?
In our house we spend the week after 1/1 writing thank you notes.
For Blenko Glass Collectors or for a gift giver who appreciates design the Diane Weber BLENKO GLASS inspired note cards are a must.
If Santa didn't bring you a selection of Diane's cards . . . . .well check out the Blenko Glass (phone 304 743 9081) collection. Don't see the cards? Ask the ladies behind the counter.
This card could stand alone as a gift. When combined with a gift of Blenko it is certain to impress the recipient.
The Diane Weber cards are hand crafted of paper made in USA.
hjh