For as long as I can remember, I have been mesmerized by the art of glass blowing. The way molten glass transforms into stunning, delicate, and colorful works of art has always felt magical to me. I knew, deep down, that if I ever had the chance to try it, I would not only enjoy it but be good at it. This past Mother’s Day, my husband gave me the most thoughtful gift—a set of glass blowing lessons. He knew how much I had always wanted to try it, and little did he know, he was setting me on a path toward a new creative passion that would become an integral part of my life.
I remember the anticipation leading up to my first lesson. Walking into the glass studio in Ferndale, MI, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant energy of the space. The heat from the furnaces, the glow of the molten glass, and the focused artists working with such precision—it all felt exhilarating. My instructor welcomed me warmly and walked me through the basics of working with hot glass. Though I was a beginner, I felt an instant connection to the process, as if I had been waiting for this experience my entire life.
The first time I gathered molten glass onto the blowpipe, I was both nervous and excited. The sensation of controlling something so fluid yet so fragile was unlike anything I had ever experienced. As I shaped my first piece, I could feel a rhythm developing between myself and the glass. The process required patience, focus, and trust in my instincts—all of which came naturally to me. When I finally completed my first small vase, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and joy. I was hooked.
From that moment on, I knew that glass blowing was something I wanted to pursue beyond just a few lessons. I began returning to the studio at least once a week, eager to refine my skills and experiment with different techniques. Each visit was an opportunity to push my creative boundaries and challenge myself in new ways. I explored different forms, colors, and textures, each piece becoming a reflection of my artistic growth.
One of the aspects I love most about glass blowing is the balance between control and surrender. The glass has a mind of its own, and while you guide and shape it, there’s an element of unpredictability that keeps every session exciting. There is something incredibly rewarding about taking raw materials and, through skill and creativity, transforming them into something beautiful and tangible.
Beyond the art itself, the community at the Ferndale studio has been an unexpected gift. I have met some incredibly talented artists and kindhearted individuals who share the same passion for glass blowing. Their encouragement and camaraderie have made this journey even more fulfilling.
Looking back, I can’t believe it took me so long to finally try glass blowing, but I am beyond grateful that I did. What started as a Mother’s Day gift has blossomed into a true passion—one that I plan to nurture for years to come. Every time I step into the studio, I feel a sense of excitement and possibility. I can’t wait to see where this creative journey takes me next, and I am forever grateful to my husband for giving me the gift that sparked it all.
