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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.

Sunday, July 31, 2016

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.

Friday, July 29, 2016

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.
 




Wednesday, July 27, 2016

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.





Sunday, July 24, 2016

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.



Friday, July 22, 2016

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 .

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

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

Thursday, July 14, 2016

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. 


Tuesday, July 12, 2016

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.



Sunday, July 10, 2016

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.

Saturday, July 09, 2016

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

Thursday, July 07, 2016

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 

Monday, July 04, 2016

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!


Friday, July 01, 2016

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