Title

Heart of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass is a West Virginia treasure that spans generations. Nothing symbolizes the state of West Virginia better or more beautifully than Blenko Glass. We will discuss current and former craftsmen and designers and how important it is that Blenko and West Virginia glass be appreciated and valued by the younger generation.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Fall is Almost Here - Pumpkins Available at Blenko!

Pumpkins

Just in time for the Fall season and the Annual West Virginia Pumpkin Festival, our Tangerine and Dreamcicle pumpkins are great decorative pieces and come in both a small, 5 3/4" diameter, and a large, 6 3/4" diameter, variety.

Sm. Pumpkin Price: $60.00
Lg. Pumpkin Price: $70.00

Monday, August 29, 2011

Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com.
This week Blenko has a coupon on the website for $off.
You may use this coupon on line or bring to the gift shop.
The clearance tables in back of gift shop - are filled with wonderful glass
some marked 75% off retail price.
You'll want to start your Holiday Shopping early, several blog readers suggest
checking the gift shop weekly.
Gretchen wrote she purchased a large fish and 2 Husted vases from
the clearance table for a total of $125.
Start your holiday shopping this week - make Blenko Glass your
first stop.
Buy Made In USA - Buy Local when possible!

Friday, August 26, 2011

International Master Gardener Conference In Charleston - Blenko Glass tours available

About 1,000 gardening enthusiasts from at least 42 states and two Canadian provinces are expected to gather in Charleston Oct. 11-14 to attend the International Master Gardener Conference 2011.

The event, to be headquartered in the Charleston Civic Center, "will have a $500,000 economic impact on the city," said Jama Jarrett, spokeswoman for the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The conference will open with a "Taste of West Virginia" event showcasing state-grown foods ranging from ramp chowder to pulled pork. "We have 15 pounds of frozen ramps ready to go," said Barber.

In addition to lectures and workshops on gardening topics, there will be day tours to such destinations as Kanawha State Forest, Capital Market, the state Capitol grounds, Coonskin Park, the Carriage Trail, Spring Hill Cemetery, the gardens of Charleston's East End, the State Farm Museum, Blenko Glass in Milton, and Tamarack and the Exhibition Coal Mine in Beckley.

Read the entire Gazette Artice here.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

More Beautiful Photos from Bruce





Hi Doc,
I nice pair of Husted designed decanters. The nice flame stopper Regal 2-RE (19 1/2") piece was a mislist from Ebay that I picked up for another local collector. While the Jonquil decanter came back from Georgia with me a couple weeks ago. I stumbled upon it in a small out-of-the-way antique mini mall in the mountains for the nicest price I have seen lately. It is a Blenko #5922S (15 1/4") and for $34.00 I was one happy hunter.




Hope you enjoy as well,
Bruce

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Crackle Glass



Hi HIllary,
I don't have a lot of crackle pieces in my collection but I must admit I really am enjoying several that I have picked up lately. Hope you do as well.
From the left you have a Myers designed Blenko #629 (8 1/4") with a Blenko #6427 (25 1/2") in the middle and a Blenko #6849 (14") on the right. All of these are in a wonderful deep Tangerine.
Enjoy,
Bruce

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Schedule Your Class Visit to Blenko



Hilary



Can you tell me whats goin (sp) on at the factory? Is Blenko open, are they making


glass daily? Can I take my class there any morning, do I need to make a reservation?


I see the calendar on their web page but I know from experience what it says and whats happening are never the same.
Will Blenko have items our children can afford to purchase? What amount of money do you recommend having them bring?


Help!


Marmet Teacher







Today I phoned Blenko, spoke with the Admin and was told the online schedule is

usually correct. Please, phone 304 743 9081 ask for Christy Gibson let her know when you plan to come, how many children , the ages etc.


If you plan ahead, Blenko may provide a guide for your trip.


Please always phone. Blenko is a factory filled with machines - machines break - so the schedule isn't always 7-3.

Blenko always have a selection of small glass mold animals ( frogs, fish,) for under $10 and the wonderful medallions are also under $10. Ask Christy what else might be available when you phone for a reservation.

Every school child in WV should have an opportunity to spend a morning at Blenko Glass. A few years ago former President Clinton visited Blenko - he stopped as his secret service agent recalled visiting Blenko as a student .


Blenko Glass made in USA!





HJH

Monday, August 22, 2011

Blenko 600Ds



Hi Doc,


The next photo is of my collection of Blenko 600D's in various colors. I am currently trying to finish the last bit of documentation that any collector should do in order to properly insure our collection from the chance of, heaven forbid, loss or damage. From left to right the colors are Tangerine, Sea Green, Turquoise, Ruby, Amethyst, and Emerald Green. All these were Ebay finds with the majority of them mislisted.


Enjoy,

Bruce Specht

Sunday, August 21, 2011

More Specht glass

Next up is this trio of Myers decanters in Olive Green, Turquoise and Lemon. The taller decanters are Blenko #6948 (20 1/2") with the shorter Blenko 6947 (12"). All three pieces have the wonderful textural patterns and indentions.


Friday, August 19, 2011

Request keep coming for Specht of Texas Blenko Photos!



Hi Hillary,
I am going to send four photos through tonight if I can get my act together. The first is this nice grouping of Husted designed vases in Gold and Jonquil.
From the left is the Blenko #595 (9 1/2") with a nice tall Blenko #5716 (19 1/2") and on the right is a Blenko #554 (11 3/4")
Hope you and the blog readers enjoy.
Bruce

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Blenko Glass Collectors

The Blenko Project www.blenkoproject.org is opening the collectors pages to add
an additional twelve collectors.
If you collect Blenko Glass, and are willing to share your Blenko story and photos of your collection. Please email theblenkoproject@aol.com .
We'll provide you with the necessary information for having your Blenko Collection included.
HJH

Blenko find?

A Friend sent me this picture today of a small pitcher she found at an Estate Sale for $2!
What do you think - do you think she got a good deal?

Hillary J Homburg,

Founder, The Blenko Project http://www.blenkoproject.org/ .For additional Blenko Glass information or to share your Blenko story and photos of your collection. Please email theblenkoproject@aol.com





Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Sommerso Style JPM



Hi Doc,

I am sending this photo in response to a question raised when the last group was posted on the blog. I was familiar with these being a special piece by Joel Phillip Myers in what my reference books refer to as the Sommerso style wherein layers of glass create the final look, in this case Green, Ruby and Crystal. The story that I have heard connected with these goes that Myers created these himself as he was developing his skills and becoming a master glassblower himself. The pieces are all hand scribed on the bottom JPM and Blenko. Blenko in recognition that the material used was Blenko glass but these were Myers own personal pieces. I am fortunate enough to have four sets that I have collected over ten years of Ebaying. The goal I had was for each of my girls to one day each have one set of both colors. They are pricey but they do come up from time to time on Ebay. Good luck to anyone hoping to put together a set.


Enjoy,


Bruce Spec

~~~~

Hillary J Homburg,

Founder, The Blenko Project http://www.blenkoproject.org/ .For additional Blenko Glass information or to share your Blenko story and photos of your collection. Please email theblenkoproject@aol.com


Monday, August 15, 2011

Oct. 21 and Oct 22 Glass Festival in Weston

Mark your calendar.
Phone for hotel and air line reservations ( Weston is about mid way between Morgantown and Charleston)
if you are flying I would recommend using Pittsburgh airport and driving down - usually 30 - 45 % less expensive.
The Museum of Glass located in Weston, WV is the most well known, the largest and the only one to include all WV Glassmakers.

Hillary J Homburg,

Founder, The Blenko Project http://www.blenkoproject.org/ .For additional Blenko Glass information or to share your Blenko story and photos of your collection. Please email theblenkoproject@aol.com


Sunday, August 14, 2011

Myers 64b

HI HIllary,



For my final shot of the night I am sending this pair of Myers designed 64-B's in Honey Crackle and Turquoise. Thought you might enjoy. Found both of these mis-listed on Ebay and picked up for a song. Color is everything isn't it. Plus the shapes of these simple vases can vary widely so that they appeal to a wide range of collectors.


Enjoy,


Bruce Specht

~~~~

Hillary J Homburg,

Founder, The Blenko Project http://www.blenkoproject.org/ .For additional Blenko Glass information or to share your Blenko story and photos of your collection. Please email theblenkoproject@aol.com

Friday, August 12, 2011

Myers Peacock Decanters

Hi Hillary,

I am going to be sending several photos this evening. Here in Vashti with the temperatures coasting along in the hundred plus range I am trying to avoid the mid day heat which gives me the right lighting to shoot a few shots of the collection. Hopefully these will give you some filler over the next several weeks. First up is a couple of my favorite Myers designed decanters in Peacock. On the left is the ships decanter Blenko #6629 (12 5/8") with it's counter-designed Blenko #6615L (14"). The shape reminds me of the old ink blotters used on the early printing presses.

Hope you enjoy,


Bruce Specht

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

64 Vases



Hillary:

Here’s a shot of my 64 vases. Left to right, we have 64C, 64D, 64A, 64B, 64E. In 1964 catalog, the B vase has a much more exaggerated lip, rising to a point on one side. The B in my photo with the double split lip is more usually found. In the 1965 and 1966 catalog, only B, D and E are shown; in the 1967 through 1971 catalogs, only B and D. I’m working off the 1962 – 1971 Pina book of catalogs, so it is possible there are pages that show the other vases in the intervening years.

Have a wonderful day,

Diane

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

Laura Moul - Blenko Collector and Photographer

The Renaissance Art Gallery

Photography, Sculpture & Watercolor, three artistic mediums done by three accomplished artists, Laura Moul, Linda Harbison and Pati Payne from three States, West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio. These three artists will be displaying their finest work at The Renaissance Art Gallery. Opening reception is Sunday August 14, 2011 from 2-4 pm in The Renaissance Art Gallery Main Gallery. Reception is open to the public and free. Refreshments will be served. Families are welcome. Come in and meet the artists and enjoy the show. This new exhibit runs until October16, 2011.


The Renaissance Art Gallery
900 8th Street, Suite #20
Huntington, WV 25701

Gallery (304) 525-3235
Appointments: (304) 453-3187
gallerywv@yahoo.com
www.orgsites.com/wv/renaissance

Gallery hours are:

Friday & Saturday 12-4 pm, Sunday 1-4 pm
Studio hours Monday 10-Noon, Wednesday 1:00-7:30 pm and Saturday 10-Noon

###

Contact information:

Laura Moul: 304-743-8281
lauramoul@aol.com

Linda Harbison: (606) 833-2711
linda_harbison@yahoo.com

Pati Payne: 740-553-1516
pati.payne@yahoo.com

Monday, August 08, 2011

Blenko Amethyst Husted minitures

8


Hi Hillary,

Another pair of Husted designed miniatures in Amethyst. On the left is a Blenko # CM-3 with the right being a #CM-7.
I am finally getting a chance to fill out my miniature collection with several nice pieces.
Enjoy,
Bruce Specht

Saturday, August 06, 2011

20th Annual Glass Gathering in Weston

Weston, WV – The 20th Annual Glass Gathering, a meeting of glass lovers and collectors, is scheduled for October 21 and 22 at the Museum of American Glass in Weston, West Virginia. The Gathering returns to Weston every other year after alternating with other locations that offer opportunities to study glass. Such opportunities abound in West Virginia as shown in the plans for Friday, October 21, which is touted as a day of travel, discovery and glass fellowship. Attendees will visit glass artisans in Doddridge and Ritchie counties including Eddie Seese in Ellenboro, Davis Marbles in Pennsboro and Boyce Art Glass in West Union. Special features of the day include locally prepared food and digging for glass shards.

Saturday, October 22, is a day of presentations and more glass fellowship. Topics tentatively scheduled include Fry Glass, Pioneer Glass, glass insulators, and the stained glass church windows of Weston. Others topics will be announced as confirmed. There will also be time to focus on some of the favored objects from the MAG collection.

Those who have attended past Gatherings know that Dean Six, Executive Director of the Museum, puts together two jammed-packed days that are both fun and educational. Looks like 2011 will be no exception ending with the ever popular silent auction, which is always more raucous than silent, following the banquet. Auction items are both donated and purchased by attendees with the proceeds benefiting the museum. Space within the Museum limits attendance to 100 people, so mark your calendars now and be sure to watch for information on registration.

Details regarding the Glass Gathering program, registration and lodging can be found at the website for the Museum of American Glass in West Virginia at http://www.magwv.com/ or call 304-269-5006 to receive a registration form for the Gathering.








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 12,000 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://magwv.com/. Questions about programs or the museum can be directed to 304-269-5006.

Friday, August 05, 2011

Blenko GLass Festival of Glass

Blenko Glass is again hosting a ' Festival of Glass', a weekend of
classes, entertainment, the opportunity to meet other collectors.
The tradition of limited edition sign art glass will continue - several shops will each make an item.
www.blenkoglass.com for additional information.
Phone Blenko Glass 304 743 9081 with questions.

Thursday, August 04, 2011

Last Chance to Register for Blenko Festival of Glass!

It's your last chance to register for the 4th Annual Festival of Glass at Blenko August 5th & 6th!


Class Schedule

Friday, August 5th

8:30-12:30 Glass Workshop
8:30-10:00 *Snowman Class
8:30-10:00 Glass Paperweight
8:30-10:00 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
9:00-12:00 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
9:00-10:00 *Sm. Spin Bowl Class
10:00-11:30 Sm. Dalle Mosaic Class
10:00-12:30 Dalle Chipping Class
10:30-12:00 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
11:00-12:30 Christmas Ornament Class
11:30-1:30 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class
1:30-4:30 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
1:00-2:00 Miniature Casting Class
1:00-2:30 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
1:00-2:30 *Sm. Clock Class
1:30-3:00 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
2:00-3:30 Christmas Ornament Class

Saturday, August 6th

8:30-12:30 Glass Workshop
8:30-10:00 *Snowman Class
9:00-12:00 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
9:00-10:30 Small Dalle Mosaic
9:00-11:30 Dalle Chipping Class
10:00-11:00 *Sm. Spin Bowl Class
10:00-11:30 Glass Paperweight
10:45-12:15 Christmas Ornament Class
11:00-1:00 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class
1:00-2:30 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
1:00-2:30 *Sm. Clock Class
1:00-2:30 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
1:30-4:30 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
1:30-3:00 Christmas Ornament Class

for more information please visit:

www.blenkoglass.com

Wednesday, August 03, 2011

Festival of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass www.blenkoglass.com will host a Festival of Glass this weekend.

Classes in glassmaking, ornaments, mobiles, etc are being offered at very reasonable cost.

You'll want to phone 3047439081 to pre register for class of your choice.
There is no fee to attend Festival of Glass. Blenko craftsmen have again made several limited edition items - available for purchase after Friday.
This is one of the best festivals devoted to Glass in the month of August.
Local hotels ( Huntington, Hurricane have blocks of rooms at reduced prices.
Make plans to visit Blenko Glass, Milton, WV

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

Chicago Collector downsizing Collection

Dear sirs and/or madames,

I represent a gentleman here in Chicago that has a large collection of mid century and older decorative glass - many of which are Blenko.

He is anxious to sell the collection as he is relocating his offices.

I've attached only a couple of photos of the more than 200 pieces (others are Viking, Anchor Hocking, Fostoria, Kosta Boda, Cambridge, etc.

If you know of anyone in or around the Chicago area that we might contact about selling these pieces, we would certainly appreciate the lead. I've listed same on Craigslist, but have not received any responses.

Or, if there is a decorative glass show coming to our town that might have dealers interested in purchasing the collection, we would also appreciate that lead.

Thank you for your consideration,

Cheryl A











Monday, August 01, 2011

AKC Responsible Dog Owner Month

Responsibility - being responsible for each and every item you bring into your home or your life is a requirement.


Photo of Miss B (aka Blenko) she is a Bichon, she was a rescue dog.

If you are considering dog ownership, volunteer at a Vets office, speak with other owners then investigate the breed. After this,
Visit your local shelter or bred specific rescue groups. Don't buy from a pet store or an ad in a newspaper.
Consider adoption - 'bred specific rescue groups ' are listed on AKC website.


The Western Pa Bichon Club will meets monthly in Pittsburgh. For additonal information email theblenkoproject@aol.com .
This month the AKC invites you to join the Responsible Dog Ownership Movement by Sharing Your " Act of Responsible Dog Ownership" with them.
To participate in Virtual AKC RDO Days share an "Act of Responsible Dog Ownership on line through Sept 1. Did you take your dog for a walk (duh three times daily), did you give your dog a good grooming ( every 10 days), did you Volunteer at the local dog park? AKC invites you to post a description, photo or video of your " Act" on:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/americankennelclub
Twitter at @akcdoglovers
Email at Communications@akc.org
You TUbe: http://www.youtube.com/AmericanKennelClub
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/meethebreeds/

4th Annual Festival of Glass

4th Annual Festival of Glass, August 5th & 6th Blenko

Class Schedule

Friday, August 5th

8:30-12:30 Glass Workshop
8:30-10:00 *Snowman Class
8:30-10:00 Glass Paperweight
8:30-10:00 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
9:00-12:00 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
9:00-10:00 *Sm. Spin Bowl Class
10:00-11:30 Sm. Dalle Mosaic Class
10:00-12:30 Dalle Chipping Class
10:30-12:00 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
11:00-12:30 Christmas Ornament Class
11:30-1:30 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class
1:30-4:30 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
1:00-2:00 Miniature Casting Class
1:00-2:30 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
1:00-2:30 *Sm. Clock Class
1:30-3:00 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
2:00-3:30 Christmas Ornament Class

*New Classes for 2011


Saturday, August 6th

8:30-12:30 Glass Workshop
8:30-10:00 *Snowman Class
9:00-12:00 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
9:00-10:30 Small Dalle Mosaic
9:00-11:30 Dalle Chipping Class
10:00-11:00 *Sm. Spin Bowl Class
10:00-11:30 Glass Paperweight
10:45-12:15 Christmas Ornament Class
11:00-1:00 Stepping Stone Mosaic Class
1:00-2:30 *Dichroic Glass Pendant Class
1:00-2:30 *Sm. Clock Class
1:00-2:30 *Blown Glass Candy Dish
1:30-4:30 *Stained Glass Ornament Class
1:30-3:00 Christmas Ornament Class

*New Classes for 2011
Special Glass Demonstrator

Ron Hinkle

Ron Hinkle of Ron Hinkle Glass will be demonstrating at various times during the festival. Ron will also have a Limited Edition Piece available for purchase during the festival. The name of the piece is "Cosmos Battle". There will be a total of 75 signed, numbered, and dated pieces available in the following colors: Pink Ruby, Aqua Blue, Purple Amethyst & Emerald Green. $38.00 each, (approximately) 4" tall, 3" diameter.




for more information please visit:

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=jwq8btcab&v=001xdqoBdbuEqDMZNCVWNRTEtB9aPh-wJoYONWbz69KZBW2k3RvdMHXA34MEHanpd1WNNbPNfMlKYjKl43m68Qj4sN63OpQoSNOiFvW-lJ7NBo0C6uHmdQ4_2sKVzAepH-K

Seeking American Glass Collectors.

We're looking for glass collectors - American and/ or Blenko Glass . We'd like to have no more than 10 photos of your glass collection to add to our
web page of glass collections.
If you are interested - please write a brief bio, and send photos
to theblenkoproject@aol.com . We'll accept photos until 11/1/ 11.