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Lampworking is an ancient art form almost tracing it’s roots back to the first glass workers. Defining the original lampworkers or exactly when lampworking came into being is a little difficult. Part of the problem lies within the definition of lampworking. What is now a torch, used to be a lamp and before that a fire pit. Approaches used over a fire pit are similar to ancient lampworking methods which also have some carry over into today’s techniques.
Today’s glass artists use torches fueled with either Mapp gas or a Propane and Oxygen mix. Various types of glass can be used to create different looks. Steel tools for shaping, poking, pushing and prodding are used to help the glass artist create their desired look. Different techniques can be applied to the surface of the glass to achieve certain textures and patterns. Glass blowing, to create small forms and vessels, is also possible with lampworking. Molten glass can be difficult to work with yet it is so versatile and engaging that one’s imagination become the only real limit.
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