Fall Glassblowing: Make Your Own Pumpkins

Fall has a way of inviting creativity. The weather starts to cool down, everything gets a little cozier, and suddenly, there’s more reason to slow the pace and try something hands-on.

Whether it’s baking something warm or taking a walk through the leaves, this time of year asks us to connect, both with each other and with our surroundings. It’s also when people start thinking about decorating for the season, and nothing fits that moment quite like handcrafted pieces that bring autumn colors to life.

Glass pumpkins are one of those decorations that feel almost magical. They glow when the sunlight hits them just right, and each one is shaped a little differently from the next. The way the colors swirl together in orange, red, amber, or even opaque white brings a special touch to any room.

And the best part? You can make one with your own hands. Signing up for a glassblowing class this fall doesn’t just give you an activity for the weekend. It gives you something you can proudly show off, year after year.

Fall In The Studio: Why Glass Pumpkins Feel Just Right This Season

There’s something about the colors of fall that feel handmade. Leaves don’t fall in perfect rows, and apples never look exactly the same. Fall decor reflects that, blending textures and natural shapes to bring warmth into your space. Handblown glass pumpkins fit right in with that look, and they go far beyond what you’ll find on a store shelf.

Here’s why glass pumpkins have become such a favorite this time of year:

- They match the season. The rich hues of molten glass turn into deep oranges, golden ambers, rust reds, and even moody plums.

- Each one is unique. Because they’re shaped by hand, no two glass pumpkins come out the same.

- They work anywhere in your home. Display one on a mantel, line a few along a dining table, or set a small one on your desk to bring in some fall fun.

- They last, year after year. Unlike natural pumpkins, they don’t rot or collapse. You can carefully tuck them away and bring them back out each fall.

When people sign up to make one, it’s usually more than just the final piece they remember. The glow of the furnace, the turn of the rod, and that first look at your finished pumpkin make it feel personal. That’s something you don’t get from buying a seasonal decoration off a shelf.

What It’s Like To Make A Glass Pumpkin

At first glance, working with molten glass can look kind of intimidating. But the process of turning a lump of glass into a colorful pumpkin isn’t just doable. It’s fun. With someone guiding you through each step, the experience is smooth, safe, and full of cool moments.

Here’s a look at the steps you’ll likely take when making your own pumpkin:

1. Gather the glass – It starts with a glob of melted glass pulled from the furnace using a blowpipe.

2. Shape and color – You’ll choose your colors and roll the glass across small colored glass chips (known as frit). Then, you’ll help shape the round body with tools as it cools a bit.

3. Blow or shape the form – Depending on the style, you may blow gently to form a hollow pumpkin or keep it solid for a paperweight-style version.

4. Add the stem – An instructor takes gathered glass and helps attach a twisting stem to the top.

5. Cool down – The pumpkin goes into a special oven (called an annealer) where it slowly cools over several hours and hardens for good.

Throughout the session, instructors work closely with you. You’ll still do the hands-on parts, but there’s someone nearby to make sure things stay on track. One example that stays with most people is shaping their pumpkin just slightly off-center, and realizing later that the little wobble is what makes it special. It turns into something you’re proud of, something that looks and feels like fall made it with you.

From Furnace to Table: How Glass Pumpkins Become Décor

Once you’ve crafted your very own glass pumpkin, bringing it home opens up all kinds of possibilities. These artistic pieces are more than just decorations. They add warmth and a personal touch anywhere you place them. Their rich colors and unique shapes make them pop, whether they're positioned in a cozy corner or as the centerpiece on your dining table.

Think about setting a few pumpkins of various sizes together for a delightful cluster that draws immediate attention. Maybe mix and match different color tones to complement your home’s palette, or create a theme on your favorite shelf.

Here are a few creative ideas for showcasing your glass pumpkins:

- On a mantel: Arrange them among candles and autumn leaves for a charming fall display.

- Dining table: Use them as a unique alternative to table runners or among other seasonal centerpieces.

- Entryway decor: Greet visitors with a splash of color by placing a few pumpkins on an entry table or stand.

Glass pumpkins aren’t just fun to make. They’re memorable gifts. Surprise a loved one with a piece that they can enjoy every year, reminding them of the special time spent in crafting them or simply of the season they adore.

Interested in Glassblowing? Try a Class

Curious about giving it a shot yourself? Our glassblowing classes are made for those who have never held a blowpipe before. They’re designed for total beginners, and you’ll be in good hands throughout the experience. Each class offers a glimpse into the art of glassblowing while also allowing you to take home a piece of your own creation.

Here's what you can expect when attending a class:

- Step-by-step guidance: Instructors break down the process into manageable steps, making sure you’re comfortable at each stage.

- Friendly atmosphere: Classes focus on having fun while learning, meaning you’ll be in a welcoming environment.

- No pressure: Enjoy working at your own pace, with instructors assisting to keep everything on track.

Even if the finished product looks a bit wonky, it’ll be uniquely yours. That slight imperfection can become a cherished feature, something you remember fondly whenever you see it.

What Makes These Pumpkins So Meaningful

When the final product of a glass pumpkin sits on your shelf, it's more than just a pretty object. It marks an experience where you tried something new and learned along the way. Creating something by hand reminds us to slow down and take pride in making each piece unique.

Feeling that warmth and seeing the results of your effort is fulfilling. Each glance at your handmade pumpkin is like a little reminder of the creativity and joy behind its creation. It's an experience that turns into a story you get to tell every fall season.

With glassblowing, you’re not just crafting beautiful decor. You’re adding a piece of your own personality to it. Whether it's enjoying the colors and shapes you chose or reliving the moments spent in the studio, each glass pumpkin is a keepsake that carries a bit of autumn magic with it.

Thinking about diving into the art of glassblowing this fall? Glassblower Ben is rolling out an exciting Fall Schedule with various offerings. From make your own pumpkin events to hands-on experiences, there's something for everyone interested in crafting beautiful seasonal decor. Explore our glassblowing classes and see how you can bring a touch of handcrafted magic into your home this season.

Happy New Year & Happy Mardi Gras!

2022 was a big year for me- I got married and my wife, Allyson, joined me in business, and together we embarked on quite the journey. We renovated the glass hot shop, found new homes for many of my sculptural pieces, visited internationally renowned glass studios, and transformed our operations center to create a unique gallery and venue space designed to provide greater access to the arts for everyone.

2023 is off to a great start! In January, the studio hosted visiting veteran artist, Marcus Eriksen, who commissioned us to make 10 glass hearts for one of his emotional sculptures, known as the Iraqi Angel. Markus painstakingly welded together 70,000 small steel ball bearings to form the shape of a lifesize soldier, an image burned into his memory from when he was a Marine in Kuwait City in the early nineties. Creating the sculpture helped free the image from his mind. It was incredible to work with him, share stories and teach him about glass as he taught me about the importance of persistence and positive attitudes. After multiple models and many experiments we made some really accurate glass hearts. I’m sure we will continue to collaborate in the future.

As I sit here in this newly remodeled space, I am reminded of the joy this place brings me and how lucky I am to be able to share that with you. I am able to do what I love because of your ongoing support now and over the last 8 years as I learned my way. Thank you! Without you, we would not be able to continue to do what we love. We love making glass and we love making your moments extra special. Cheers!

We are excited to have some new things in the works this year. Expect to see a few more limited release collections of designer glasses. The Winter Wonderland Glass, the first glass from the Winter 2023 Collection was released last week and is inspired by our recent ski trip to Crested Butte for our 1st anniversary. There will also be seasonal collections, including a Mardi Gras Glass featuring purple, green and real 24k gold leaf. Keep an eye out for those and other collections this year.

We also plan to introduce 2 new glass shapes into our lineup later this year. It is very exciting to bring both a stemless wine glass and a stemless champagne flute to you! These glasses will feature the same great thick base that we are known for and be customizable like our existing line of glassware.

And lastly, it has been such a pleasure to meet so many of you as you visit the city. Whether you stop by for a quick tour, peruse our gallery, or join us for molten glass experience, we’re so happy you made it down here. It’s a real joy to share our space and craft with you. If your upcoming travel includes New Orleans, please give us a shout. You won’t be disappointed.

Cheers,

Ben Dombey

Winter Wonderland Glass

Mardi Gras Magic Glass on the Punty in the Hot Shop

Melody and Rocky making a stemless wine glass with support from Ben

New! The Winter Wonderland Glass

A limited edition glass that is part of the Winter 2023 Collection. This glass sparkles like the freshest powder snow on a fresh sunny day. These won’t last long, only 3 remaining.

Mardi Gras Magic is Almost Here!

What’s better than a beautiful and delicious gold liquid in your glass? Blinging real 24k gold leaf embedded into your glass! Celebrate another epic year with the Mardi Gras as we revel in the streets for Carnival, embracing the joys of abundance and excess among friends and family. This glass will bring you back to the colorful streets of New Orleans sparkling with a fresh dusting of Mardi Gras Magic.

Make a Wine Glass with Your Sweetie!

Glassblowing is an exciting and fun way to connect with your partner. Let your creativity flow freely in this 90 minutes couples glassblowing glass and make your very own stemless wine glasses. Sessions booked 2/15-2/23 will receive a free bottle of wine from Faubourg Wines! Use Coupon Code “SWEET” for $50 off the “Make Your Own Stemless Wine Glass” Hands-On Molten Glass Experience. Good Thru 2/23/23.

Handblown Thanksgiving Glasses

Thanksgiving is one of the greatest feasts of the year. It’s one of the best opportunities to drink with good friends and family. To catch up on stories, to share your latest accomplishments, and to do so in style. Seasonal decor does not have to be boring or mass produced. Sesaonal decor can be something to be proud of and show off. Enter the Turkuppin, our fresh spin on our medium sized handmade whiskey glass. Each Turkuppin features tailfeathers and the turkey head, featuring it's famous waddle.

A flock of Turkuppins