Glassblowing at Tacoma Glassblowing Studio

Tacoma and Seattle are home to some of the prettiest and extensive glass collections in the world. Renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly is from the area and his pieces showcase the glass bridge in Tacoma and throughout the Glass Museum. Many places offer glass blowing experiences and it is a must do while you live in the area. Here is what to expect during a glassblowing experience.

We did our glass blowing experience at Tacoma Glassblowing. They have a convenient location downtown Tacoma near El Gaucho and the Melting Pot. You will need to reserve a glass blowing experience online, they book out in advance and no walk-in appointments are available.

Tacoma Glassblowing Studio
114 S. 23rd Street
Tacoma WA 98402

When you book your appointment, you will choose the number of people and the date/time. You will have plenty of time to choose what glass piece you want to make when you arrive for your experience. They have plates, vases, decorative glass pieces and more to choose from. Pieces range in price starting at $85+ and you will pay after you finish your glass blowing experience.

First thing you’ll do when you arrive is decide on what glass piece you want to create. Then you will pick out your colors and head out to the “hot shop” to start!

You are required to wear protective glasses, gloves and close toed shoes. (Gloves and protective glasses will be provided). Your group will be assigned an experienced glass blower that will help each person individually with their piece.

I made a vase, and he helped me with the entire process up to the end.

Shaping, adding color, more shaping, adding glass and blowing to inflate the piece were all parts that I did. At the end he finished the opening shape and process of breaking the glass off the metal rod himself.

When your glass piece is finished, it will need to cool over a period of 48 hours. They will let you know when you will be able to return to pick it up. We had a blast and I already want to go back and make another!