5 Tools in Our Glass-blowing Toolbox

Have you ever wondered what makes the handcrafted glass pendants from NICHE so uniquely....niche? The secret lies not just in our artistic vision and hard work - but in the essential tools we use in our glass-blowing hot shop. Each tool plays a role in transforming molten glass into NICHE lighting pendants. Today, we want to show you five vital tools from our glass-blowing toolbox that help us create the beautiful, hand-blown lighting pieces you adore.

1. BLOWPIPE

First up in our toolbox is the blowpipe. Imagine it as the heart of our glass-blowing process. This steel pipe is hollow throughout its length, allowing us to blow air into molten glass to form a bubble. The blowpipe enables us to gather, shape, and expand the glass into various forms. With a mouthpiece at one end and a working end for collecting the hot glass, the blowpipe plays an essential role into creating the NICHE shapes you know and love.

2. BLOCK

Next, we have the block—a shaping tool crafted from cherry wood. The block molds and refines the molten glass as it's worked. Its smooth, water-soaked surface helps to cool and shape the glass efficiently. The cherry wood is ideal for its durability and ability to withstand the high temperatures of molten glass. As the glass is rolled and pressed against the block, its shape becomes more defined.

3. JACKS

Another tool in our glass-blowing arsenal are Jacks. These long, steel tongs are used to control and manipulate the hot glass. The jacks create and refine the shape of the glass piece by pinching, spreading, or cutting into the molten glass. Their design allows for detailed and intricate adjustments, ensuring the curve and angle are just right. Whether creating the distinctive Stamen 'tuck' or the edge of a Pharos pendant, jacks are crucial for achieving the desired form.

4. SHEARS

Imagine shears as the gaffer's version of heavy-duty scissors. Made from robust, high-gauge steel, these shears are used for cutting, trimming, and shaping the hot glass. They are incredibly sharp and precise, allowing us to make clean cuts and detailed adjustments to our glass pieces. From trimming away excess glass to sculpting intricate details, shears are essential tools for perfecting our creations and achieving flawless finishes.

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5. NEWSPAPER

Ah, the humble newspaper. Yes, thick layers of wet newspaper play a surprisingly critical role in our glass-blowing process! By folding into layers, these newspapers create a cool, safe surface for us to handle and shape the hot glass. The moisture in the newspaper provides a cushioning effect that helps to cool the glass gradually, allowing us to manipulate it with our hands while protecting ourselves and the glass from potential damage.

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Crafting Excellence with Every Tool

Each tool in our glass-blowing toolbox is integral to our craft, enabling us to transform molten glass into the distinctive and beautiful pieces that define NICHE. From the initial blowing with the blowpipe to the final shaping with jacks and shears, every step is handled meticulously to ensure that our glass pieces meet the highest standards of quality and artistry.

If you have ever admired our hand-blown lighting fixtures and wondered about the craftsmanship behind them, now you know a little more about the tools that help bring our designs to life! Every piece we create is a product of skilled artistry and the indispensable tools we use.

Ready to bring a touch of handcrafted elegance to your space? Explore our collection of hand-blown glass lighting and see how we transform molten glass into stunning works of art. Contact us today to learn more about our process and discover the perfect piece for your home or business.