Glass Blowing for Beginners

Each month CarSense highlights some of the best attractions in the region in a feature called "Sunday Drives."

March 28-29

Want to try your hand at something new? (Well, not exactly new, as glass blowing’s origins date back to the 1st century BC, when it was invented by Syrian craftsmen, but new to most of us.) The Glass Blowing Center in Hilliards, PA, is happy for beginners to give it a try. 

The Glass Blowing Center is operated by Tom Doner, a glassblowing professional for more than 25 years, and his wife Elaine. Beginner classes are two hours and require no experience. Working with a Pyrex rod and frit (crushed colored glass,) you’ll create either free-form color pendants or a mushroom pendant – and you get to keep what you make. Class times are 5-7 pm, or 6-8 pm, and are limited to 2 people per session. Cost is $50 per person, and you should reserve ahead. 

If you want to take home more than the baubles you create, the center handcrafts everything from figurines and glass sculptures to pendants, necklaces, candle holders, custom jewelry and more—many of which can be purchased from the center’s on-site gift shop. If you want to see a pro in action, they’re periodically at work in the in-store workshop as well. The center is open 10 am – 6 pm seven days a week (Wednesdays by appointment only.)

The Glass Blowing Center
114 Leonard Road
Hilliards, PA 16040

724 791 2100