Read the interview with Giggle Glass artist TC Glass and learn from their glass blowing experience. Learn more about their revolutionary techniques here. Keeping an Eye on the Craft: Inside the Studio of TC Glass Co.
Who are you?
I’m TC, the artist behind TC Glass Co. I’m a primarily self-taught glass artist who has been working with borosilicate glass since January 2012. I mainly create glass pipes, along with eye pendants and eye attachments that have become a signature part of my work. I work a full-time job during the week and try to spend three or four nights a week in my home garage studio continuing to improve my craft.
When did you first get started in this industry?
I first got started in January 2012, when I was a freshman in college. I had been watching lampworking videos on YouTube and became fascinated by the process. During my first semester, I had to write a research paper on a topic of my choice, so I chose lampworking. Over Christmas break, I bought my first lampworking kit from Wale Apparatus, a copy of *Contemporary Lampworking, Volume 1*, and a small National 8M torch with a premix tip.
What New Innovations Have You Been Working On?
Lately, I’ve been focused on refining my signature glass eyes and finding new ways to incorporate them into my pipes. I make my own eye murrine using layers of silver-rich striking colors, which creates a lot of depth once the iris is encased under a clear lens. I’ve been experimenting with different color combinations, eyelid styles, and placements so each eye gives the piece its own personality.
How Do You See the Future of This Industry Going, and Do You Have Any Advice for Those Trying to Break Into It?
I see the future of the glass industry continuing to grow through collaboration, social media, and artists sharing techniques with one another. The internet played a huge role in how I learned, and today it makes it even easier for new artists to connect, show their work, and build a following. I also think handmade work will continue to stand out because collectors appreciate the creativity, quality materials, and time that go into every piece.
My advice to anyone trying to break into the industry is not to give up and not to rush the process. A lot of people get into lampworking because they want to make pipes, but hollow work has a steep learning curve. Start by making solid pieces like marbles and pendants so you can learn heat control and understand how the glass moves. Once you are comfortable with the fundamentals, move into hollow work. It takes time, but every piece teaches you something, and you will get there.
Any Fun Facts About Your Work Habits or Creative Process?
As for new work, I’ve recently started making flower implosion marbles. I’ve been experimenting with different color combinations to create hyper-realistic flowers, and it’s been exciting to explore that style more.
