Glass blower/designer : Job description

A glass blower/designer is responsible for designing, producing, decorating and finishing pieces of glass ranging from giftware, tableware, exhibition pieces, stained glass windows, mirrors, vehicle and architectural glass products through to glass equipment used in scientific laboratories.

Most of the work is carried out by small, independent studios, although there are some larger glass manufacturers based in the UK.

The work can be commissioned by individuals, corporate organisations or the public sector. Most blowers/designers will be involved in the entire commission process, from concept to completion.

Glass blowers/designers may also be involved in restoring, renovating and repairing original pieces.

Typical work activities

Depending on the specialist area, work activities can vary but will probably include:

• designing, producing and finishing decorative pieces, including windows, mirrors, lamp bases, ornaments, tableware and sculptures;
• soldering pieces of coloured, painted or enamelled glass;
• using decorative techniques, including engraving, acid-etching, stencilling, sand or grit blasting;
• restoring, renovating and repairing original pieces;
• working with molten glass (from a furnace) and a blowing iron to produce an infinite range of shapes and forms;
• kiln forming - slumping glass into a mould;
• recycling scraps (cullet) from larger producers;
• selling wares directly to customers or stockists, from a studio, shop or gallery;
• networking to establish effective contacts in one's own specialist market;
• attending training courses to keep abreast of continuous technological, scientific and innovative advances in the industry and to learn new techniques;
• researching and monitoring the worldwide glass market to ensure products are current, in demand and reasonably priced;
• attending craft fairs and exhibitions;
• giving live demonstrations of production of work before selling;
• producing a catalogue or portfolio of designs for publicity purposes.

For those running their own business, additional tasks may involve:

• applying for grants and awards;
• working with professional associations and membership bodies for local and national artists;
• utilising photography skills and web design to market products;
• entering national and international design competitions;
• developing a variety of computing skills, including website development and graphics packages along with desktop publishing for producing publicity materials.