Vase, Tumbler, Bowl Experience

About this experience

Experience the heat, skill and excitement of traditional glassblowing as you create your own multi-coloured crystal vessel with one of Cumbria Crystal's skilled glassblowers.

Working closely with your tutor, you'll choose your colours before learning how to shape, blow and manipulate molten crystal at temperatures of over 1,200°C.

You can aim to create a small vase, bowl, tealight holder or tumbler. Glassblowing is a fluid process, however, and your piece may evolve as you work – a vase might become a bowl, for example. Your tutor will help you get as close as possible to your chosen shape while creating something uniquely yours.

What happens during the experience?

Your glassblower will first demonstrate the process before guiding you through making your own piece.

You'll choose from our available colours, which will be melted into the hot glass, before learning some of the traditional tools and techniques used to shape and blow it. Your tutor will work alongside you throughout, helping you safely control the glass and develop the final form.

Each participant receives around 30 minutes of hands-on glassblowing time. Only one participant works with the glass at a time, so you'll have the full attention and guidance of your tutor.

What should I wear?

For your safety, participants must wear clothing that fully covers their legs and feet. Shorts, short skirts, sandals and stilettos are not permitted.  Breathable fabrics such as cotton is ideal, but clothing such as jeans, trainers, joggers are absolutely fine.  You can wear short sleeved clothing as you will be given a heat protective sleeve to wear during your experience.

When can I take my piece home?

Your finished piece cannot be taken home on the day. It must be slowly cooled in our kiln for 24–48 hours before we finish the base, making it smooth and safe to display.

Your piece can then be collected from Cumbria Crystal. If you're unable to collect it, delivery can also be arranged for an additional charge.

Before you book

This experience is limited to a maximum of two participants per hour. Up to four friends or family members are welcome to watch and take photographs.

The minimum age is 16 due to the close contact with hot glass during this experience.

Terms and Conditions Please note, our 10% welcome code cannot be used when purchasing glass blowing experiences.

Do you want to book for a larger group? Maybe a family birthday or a work away day? Feel free to email us shop@cumbriacrystal.com to arrange.