While in Holland, we had the privilege of visiting a glass blowing studio. There we learned how the glass is heated to extreme temperatures; how it is worked with to achieve the artisan's desired effect; how color is added; how different shapes are made - molding, blowing, etc.; the cooling and curing process; etc. It was a very educational and enjoyable outing!

This man is considered a master in his profession since he has been working with glass for over forty years! He has great talent and his work is amazing! In this photo he is in the process of making a tea-light candle holder. When the picture was taken, he was just finished gathering the proper amount of molten glass for the final product. He continues spinning the rod that the glass is on to keep it in an even formation. He then takes these wetted papers to smooth it - but he isn’t finished with it yet.

Here is a closer look at some of his tools: the papers that he wets and uses to smooth the glass; a funnel blower to make for fine adjustments in blown products; a tool for defining edges and making the brake-off point; a pail of water; etc.

Note: I'll be adding more photos and their explanations to this post soon, so keep an eye out for them.