Ancient Tools & Modern Glassblowing
- May 14
- 2 min read
Dear Gracious Guests,
It’s all about the Leidenfrost Effect—the astounding moment when there’s nothing between your hand and molten glass except for 8 to 10 sheets of folded, soggy newspaper. Described in 1756 by German theologian and physician, Johann Gottlob Leidenfrost, the effect occurs when the red-hot glass touches the water-doused paper pad and the water inside instantly vaporizes—creating a steam barrier and a thin, carbonized layer that allows the glass to slide rather than stick to the paper. It’s the closest you get to “touching” glass that’s about 1100°C and the technique offers a pliable way of shaping a piece. It’s one of the younger workhorse tools for Calgary’s fascapple glass artists and an amazing experience for workshop guests.
It’s easy to overlook that a lot of basic tools date back to about 200 BC, when artisans in the Roman Empire began experimenting with blowing glass. For instance, there’s the:
Blowpipe, typically made of metal, which allows the artist to gather molten glass and blow it into a shape. This remarkable instrument has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Marver, a flat surface made of stone or metal where glass is rolled and shaped. This tool not only aids in the cooling of the glass but also helps the artist achieve the desired diameter and smoothness.
Jacks, which look like large tweezers and are used for shaping and manipulating hot glass during the blowing process. Their design and sizing have evolved over time, but their purpose remains the same.
While you’ll find these tools at fascapple glass, others have also come with time, and artists are always looking for new ways of creating. However, when you see a spectacular blown glass piece, remember the tried-and-true instruments and the role they play in transforming a hot blob into beauty. Think of our hands on the tools and the heart and imagination behind the work seen in our Calgary fascapple glass gallery, here on the website or on instagram@fascappleglass. Each piece can’t help but be unique, made here on our benches in front of the furnace and the reheat holes. Join us for a glassblowing workshop and use tools of old to make your own pieces. Step away from a tumultuous world and into the wonder of blown glass.
Thank you for pausing to read.
Sincerely,
The Team of Fascapple Glass
