POP-UP GLASS GALLERY Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM
The Streeters
We are excited to announce that our annual POP-UP Glass Gallery event is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. because you won’t want to miss this!
Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of hand-blown ornaments featuring hundreds of stunning pieces and our newest vibrant designs.
Looking to add holiday spirit to your home or find the perfect gift? Our beautiful glass creations will capture your heart. Join us for a delightful experience filled with cheer and craftsmanship as we celebrate this magical season together!
Creating blown glass ornaments is a delicate and intricate craft requiring skill and artistry.
The Art of Blown Glass Ornament Creation
The process begins with gathering glass, heated to an incredibly high temperature until it becomes molten and pliable. Skilled artisans carefully gather this molten glass onto a blowpipe, and with a precise technique, they blow air into the glass to form a bubble, which serves as the foundation for the ornament.
Once the glass has reached the desired size, artisans can manipulate it using various tools. Tweezers, paddles, and jacks are frequently employed to shape the glass, adding unique characteristics to each movement. Artisans layer glass colors to create captivating designs. This stage of the creative process illustrates the mastery required to produce a single ornament, highlighting the dedication and passion in each piece.
With the rise of mass production in the 20th century, unique, handcrafted ornaments such as those made by Conway Glass stand apart in a world increasingly filled with mass-manufactured items. Each piece reminds us of the artistry and individual attention in handmade goods.
The Historical Context of Blown Glass
The tradition of blown glass dates back to ancient civilizations, with significant advancements occurring in the Roman Empire around the 1st century BC. While the techniques have evolved over the centuries, the fundamental principles remain unchanged. Artisans passed down their knowledge through generations, refining their craft and innovating new styles. As a result, each ornament produced is not merely a decorative item; it embodies a rich history and a testament to the evolution of art and craftsmanship.
Blown glass ornaments gained popularity during the Victorian era when they became staples of holiday decorations.
Christmas Morning Red Multi
Blown glass ornament handcrafted in Conway, SC 3 1/2” Round Color:Red Multi
The Significance of Ornaments in Festive Celebrations
During the holiday season, glass ornaments hold significant emotional and cultural value. They serve as symbols of celebration, family unity, and tradition. Many families have specific ornament traditions, where cherished pieces are handed down through generations, each telling a unique story. These ornaments often evoke nostalgia, representing memories of past holidays and the joys of gathering with loved ones.
Furthermore, contemporary glass ornaments are not limited to holiday settings. They have transcended their original purposes and are now appreciated year-round as decorative pieces that enhance home décor. Their vibrant colors and unique designs often serve as conversation starters, drawing admiration from guests and creating an inviting atmosphere.
Christmas Morning Silver & Blue
Blown glass ornament handcrafted in Conway, SC 3 1/2” Round Color:Silver & Blue
Conway Glass Inc.
The artistry in making each piece and the rich traditions and memories they foster enrich our lives during this festive season. As everyone decorates, they are not just adorning with beautiful elements but celebrating a legacy of craftsmanship that continues to thrive at places like Conway Glass. Each ornament is a testament to the enduring allure of blown glass art. At Conway Glass, we continuously strive to enhance our techniques, materials, and designs to create unique pieces that reflect beauty and quality.
We also explore new materials and sustainable practices to ensure our production process is environmentally responsible. This year, with the installation of our new state-of-the-art glass furnace and other improvements, we are proud to say that we’ve reduced our energy use by 25%.
By sourcing eco-friendly glass and utilizing energy-efficient equipment, we reduce our carbon footprint and create exceptional-quality products.
Ultimately, improvement at Conway Glass is an ongoing journey that involves refining our art, listening to our customers, and committing to sustainable practices. Each piece of glass we create is a testament to our dedication to excellence and our desire to elevate the art of glass making.