During our recent trip to Newport, RI, we made a paperweight at Thames Glass. Since we’ve been back, several friends have said they’ve made blown glass ornaments. Said casually, like, oh yeah, we’ve done that. Um… is this a common couples activity that we’ve somehow overlooked for 26 years?
Glassmaking was not in our vacation plans before we got to Newport. We had a loose idea that we would visit some of the Gilded Age mansions, explore the Cliff Walk, and shop along the wharf. It was all part of our Gilded Age Getaway (read more here!), which also included a few days in New York City.
Make Your Own at Thames Glass
On the first night, we were browsing things to do and came across Thames Glass, where you can make your own keepsake. They had several options, ranging from a simple blown ornament to a full vase or large bowl. We opted for the paperweight. A step-up from ornaments that would only come out at Christmas, without being too complicated.
I’m so happy with our choice! Instead of blowing through a tube to create a hollow ornament, we used tongs to sculpt a globe of molten glass before encasing it in another round of solid glass. The process was fascinating, and our glass maker/teacher was fantastic!
The Paperweight Process
We worked together to make one paperweight, taking turns to go through the steps. One of our first lessons was to keep the rod turning so the glob of glass at the end would stay relatively even. To add color, I had to dip the glass into our chosen color bits. We then took turns using tongs to stretch and twist the glass like taffy.
Once we had the inner part of the paperweight twisted, the rod was dipped into more glass, then rolled against wooden cupped molds until it had a rounded shape. Another tool was then used to narrow the base, gradually creating the line where it would break off the rod. To finish it, I got to hit the rod with a stick, causing it to pop off, then use a torch to melt the base into a level surface.
(Note: It takes 2 days to cool before pick-up, or you can have it shipped home. We were there long enough to pick it up in person.)
The finished paperweight is gorgeous! We also bought a small light stand, which gives it a magical glow! It also inspired a Freely Written podcast story, which you can listen to here: Paperweight.
It was a highlight of a trip that was filled with joyful moments. If we’re ever back in Newport, I want to make a vase!