In an age of mass production and machine-made perfection, there's something profoundly captivating about objects created by hand. Among the most mesmerising of these is mouthblown glass; a centuries-old craft that continues to enchant with its delicate beauty, individuality, and unmistakable human touch.
What Is Mouthblown Glass?
Mouthblown (or handblown) glass refers to glassware created by blowing air through a pipe into molten glass, shaping it using breath, motion, and traditional tools. Unlike moulded or pressed glass, each mouthblown piece is unique, a subtle variation in shape, a whisper of an air bubble, or a trace of the maker’s hand, all adding to its charm.
This technique has been practised since at least the 1st century BC, originating in the Middle East and spreading across Europe and beyond. Despite technological advances, the essence of the craft remains unchanged, requiring extraordinary skill, control, and creativity.
The Process: From Fire to Form
Creating artisan glassware starts with raw materials such as silica sand, soda ash, and limestone, melted in a furnace at over 1,100°C. The molten glass is gathered onto the end of a blowpipe, and through the combined forces of heat, breath, and motion, it is transformed into a finished piece.
Glassblowers use tools like jacks, shears, and paddles to shape and refine the form, whether it's a delicate tumbler, a sculptural vase, or a decorative ornament. Once shaped, the glass is slowly cooled in an annealing oven to ensure durability and stability.
Why Mouthblown Glass Still Matters
In today’s world of uniform, machine-made products, handblown glassware stands out for its authenticity. Each piece carries the story of its creation, a tactile reminder of the person behind the work.
Mouthblown glass is also a more sustainable choice. Many glass artists use recycled materials and small-batch production methods that reduce waste and environmental impact. Choosing handmade glass is a way to support ethical craftsmanship and preserve a centuries-old tradition - something very close to our hearts!
Our Curated Collection of British Glass Artists
At our studio in Kent, we proudly curate a selection of contemporary British glass art from some of the UK's most respected and talented glassmakers. Our collection featuring exceptional pieces by:
- Timothy Harris – acclaimed for his vibrant, energetic works crafted at the renowned Isle of Wight Studio Glass
- Peter Layton – a pioneer of British studio glass, renowned for his expressive, painterly forms
- Bob Crooks – celebrated for his dynamic, sculptural designs and technical precision
- Elizabeth Welch – a leading lampwork glass artist, admired for her intricate, flame-worked designs and delicate detail
- Will Shakspeare – known for bold colour palettes and contemporary interpretations of traditional glassblowing
From mouthblown vessels to flame-sculpted forms, each piece is selected for its craftsmanship, individuality, and artistic vision. Our collection represents the very best of handmade glassware in the UK, perfect for collectors, design lovers, and those who appreciate the beauty of artisan work.
Where Tradition Meets Modern Design
Today’s glass artists are not just preserving tradition, they’re pushing creative boundaries. From minimalist drinkware to abstract sculptures, contemporary glassware is finding its place in modern interiors. These objects are more than functional, they’re art forms in their own right, blending timeless skill with modern aesthetics!
Whether it’s a mouthblown wine glass that elevates your dinner table or a one-of-a-kind vase that becomes a conversation piece, artisan glassware invites us to appreciate slow design, natural imperfection, and the enduring power of craft...
Discover our full collection of unique, mouthblown glass pieces here.