Retiring the Pint, Collins, and Shot Glass — A Farewell and a New Beginning

Collage showing the retired Dombey Pint, Collins, and Shot Glass with retirement announcement July 2025

We’ve officially retired three of our most classic forms: the Pint, the Collins, and the Shot glass.

These shapes have served us well — sturdy, familiar, and beloved by many. But our studio continues to evolve. And these glasses no longer reflect how we work or where our creative energy is headed.

This isn’t just a production decision. It’s part of what it means to be an innovative studio — to stay curious, question what no longer fits, and make space for something new.

Why We’re Retiring These Glasses

For years, the Pint, Collins, and Shot glasses were part of our core lineup. But they’ve always been some of the most physically demanding forms to make — especially when repeated in large batches. After Ben’s injury, we had to seriously reconsider the toll certain shapes take on the body.

And as we paused to reassess, our creative direction began to shift as well.

We started asking deeper questions: What lights us up? What processes feel joyful, sustainable, and creatively alive?

These forms no longer matched the answers — not because they weren’t successful, but because we’ve outgrown them. As makers, that’s part of the process.

Making Space for Innovation

Letting go of these shapes gives us the freedom to experiment more deeply — with color, form, texture, and technique.

We’ve begun investing in new tools: a flame-working lathe, a microwave kiln, and an expanded palette of color rods. Our focus is shifting toward smaller batches, richer hues, and more sculptural expression. We’re exploring hybrid processes that blend hot shop techniques with new technologies — always with an eye toward precision, ergonomics, and play.

This isn’t about scaling up. It’s about evolving into a studio that reflects where we are now — in both body and spirit.

Still Want One of These Retired Glasses?

We know these designs have a following — maybe you’ve gifted them before, or have a set you love.

While they’re no longer part of our standard collection, we’re happy to discuss custom orders. If you’re looking for something specific, reach out to us here, and we’ll let you know what’s possible.

Looking Ahead

We’ll be sharing more over the coming months — from our experiments in flame-working to new color-driven designs and refined studio processes. This transition isn’t about what we’re leaving behind. It’s about continuing to innovate, to respond to what’s real, and to make with intention.

Stay Close to the Fire

To follow the evolution of our work — and be the first to know about upcoming workshops, studio updates, and behind-the-scenes process — follow us on Instagram at @StudioGlassblowerBen.

We’re building something new, one small batch at a time. Thanks for being here.