Feedback for Jason Stropko’s Glassblowing Classes and his qualities as instructor (click to continue reading)

Chad
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
Amazing experience learning how to blow glass with Jason. He is a great teacher. Glass blowing is very nuanced and Jason was patient with us the entire time. We had plenty of time to make two pieces each and he made sure we were able to fully execute our visions and they turned out great. Would definitely go back for another round!
Sep 11th 16

Christopher
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
This class was worth every penny! Glass blowing was something my girlfriend always wanted to try so I took her on a surprise date to Jason’s class. It went SO well.

Jason is friendly, informative and most importantly patient. Jason quickly showed us an example of what we would be doing by quickly creating a glass cup! My girlfriend and I then took turns making 2 small items each! We made a wine glass and a “cappuccino mug” each. Jason gave us the ability to choose our own shapes and colors! He then even gave us a little gift of two ornaments because we had some extra time left over.

We picked up our work a week later from him and couldn’t be happier! They look great!
Sep 5th 16

TAKE A CLASS WITH JASON : FOLLOW THIS LINK for options

Sen-Sei
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
After conducting some research and reading other reviews, I decided to try out the “Beginner Glass Blowing for 2” with Jason. What an awesome experience!

First off, Jason is a PRO when it comes to the art of blowing glass. His skill and passion is transparent (no pun intended). Second, it takes a certain personality type with abundant patience to be a good teacher. My wife and I learned a lot to say the least. Finally, the finished product(s) we created actually didn’t suck; Jason assisted me with a wide bottom wine decanter, and my better half crafted some heavy bottom glasses.

When I confirmed my appointment, I gave Jason a heads up what our favorite colors are and when we showed up, he was prepared. The end result was exactly what wanted.

Now I’m not one to write reviews since everyone can have a different experience and/or opinion. All I can say that for the two of us, we were “blown” away.. (pun intended).

Thanks Jason!
Aug 18th 16

Tianyu
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2:
I sooo recommend this over the group class at Public Glass! We had a lot more hands-on time to get a feel for working the glass, and Jason was flexible with his role depending on your experience/comfort level. I loved that he could verbally explain how to improve/correct our technique throughout the process, without taking over himself whenever something went wrong.

Jason was also very committed to making sure we achieved our creative vision. After describing the shapes/colors we wanted, he quickly made some sample orbs with our colors melted in so we could see how they looked and how they’d react with each other. While we were occupied with something more passive, he also taught us a little about the history of glassblowing. Amazing way to spend 3 hours, do it!
Aug 13th 16

Nancy
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason
I loved this class! Jason is a wonderful teacher – guides you and helps when needed and is calm and supportive throughout. You have time to get the feel of it and actually create something beautiful and useful!

You leave really feeling like you accomplished something. I wholeheartedly recommend doing this!
Aug 11th 16

Kathryn
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
What a fun evening! Jason is an extremely welcoming host, patient instructor and skilled artisan. He taught us all about glassblowing and helped us bring our ideas to life. We left with beautiful pieces that we’ll treasure for years – no one will believe we had a hand in their creation. It’s a hands on, creative, safe experience and I’d recommend it to anyone!
Aug 9th 16

Zoë
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason did a great job of explaining the process of blowing glass. He started by making his own and having us watch as he explained the steps involved, which I think is really helpful for beginners! Then we each got to make our own glasses with a lot of help from Jason. He is really thorough and makes sure to answers any questions you may have.
Aug 7th 16

Tammy
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
We had a great time with Jason! His instructions were clear and easy to follow. He was patient & made the whole experience really fun. I would recommend this class to anyone. Loved our pieces. Between the two of us we made 2 lowball glasses, a terrarium and an ornament.
Aug 2nd 16

Latha
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
Jason was a great teacher. Me and my husband had a lot of fun during the class. We made two bowls and two glasses. One was a huge ornamental piece an Jason taught us the techniques patiently. He was nice enough to stay back extra 30 minutes to help us complete the glass we were trying to make. I took couple of glass blowing classes and Jason is the best!

I highly recommend his class. He is very responsive and goes out an extra mile to help you! Thanks a lot Jason for good memories!
Aug 1st 16

Penny
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
If I could leave 6 stars I would. This experienced blew us away and completely exceeded my expectations. Jason provided the perfect balance of instruction and hands-on experience. He was extremely attentive, patient, and supportive of our creations. I don’t think there is any other class like this in the Bay Area–especially with the expertise and professionalism of Jason.

I highly recommend Jason for any glass blowing class he offers, at whatever level of skill or interest you have. It is well worth the money.

We now have a two glass wine decanter and lovely bowl to remember this experience!
Jul 22nd 16

Christina
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
Jason was absolutely awesome! My boyfriend and I were pretty excited to take his class since neither of us had ever blown glass. Jason was an excellent teacher -he did a great job of walking us through the process before we started and he let us be really hands on in making our pieces, while still giving us plenty of guidance. I’d love to take another class with him!
Jun 21st 16

Maria
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
My husband and I had SUCH a great time at this class! Neither of us had blown glass before and didn’t really know anything about the process. We had 4 total people in the class (2 in addition to us) so we each got almost 45 minutes to an hour when working on our item of choice. Jason was such a great teacher, so patient, and gave us plenty of hands on time so you really got to try all the various techniques, but was also ready to swoop in and help to make sure you’d ultimately still be happy with your final product. Highly recommend this class, we have been talking about it to all our friends and coworkers for over a week since we took the class!
Jun 20th 16

Anna
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason’s glass was the best Verlocal experience I’ve had thus far (and my boyfriend and I have taken MANY Verlocal classes). He allowed both of us to get lots of hands-on experiences as each of us made our own glass pieces, patiently answered all of my questions about the glass blowing process and even met me the next week in SF to give me our completed glass pieces once they had cooled!

We are looking forward to taking more classes from Jason and strongly recommend you take his class(es), too!
Jun 17th 16

Celestial
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
So much fun! Jason was friendly, patient, and a great instructor. The private session was perfect for hands-on learning: no standing around waiting for a turn. We made a couple of Christmas ornaments and a drinking glass . They came out great! Perfect for a unique date-night, or anyone curious about blowing glass.
Dec 15th 15

Raquel
Class: Beginner Glass Blowing for 2: Drinking …
What an amazing experience! Jason is a phenomenal teacher – he was such a joy to learn with. My boyfriend and I had never blown glass before, and we really enjoyed it. It was such an interesting process – I love that we got to have creative freedom, and Jason really helped us bring our ideas to life. We made a pretty sweet bowl and vase. This is the perfect date night or gift!
Nov 19th 15

Ellen
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Hands down one of the best classes that I have ever taken.. Jason is an excellent teacher … very clear, concise and very, very patient!I learned so much about the process which gave me a greater appreciation of the art of glass blowing. I did not realize that there was not only a process but also a ‘dance’ to making objects. This class exceeded all of my expectations and went by too quickly. I really hope I have another chance to take a class from Jason. I highly recommend this class to everyone.
Oct 23rd 15

Lindsey
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Jason is an incredible teacher!! I had such a blast at class; by far, it definitely exceeded my expectations. The time flew by – plus I gained a greater understanding and appreciation of this craft. I didn’t realize how detailed the process is and learned so much. I HIGHLY recommend this to class. : )
Oct 6th 15

Alejandro
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
This was my first time at a class for glass making and I must say it was amazing. Jason has the confidence, patience and expertise to show you the basics and then progressing with more elaborate designs if you are up for the challenge. As a beginners class we got to do so much and is really hands on. He will show you how to really get in and shine while creating your design. Very happy with this class, thankful and definitively will be visiting the studio more often to sharpen up my craft.
Oct 1st 15

Sarah
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason – Profess…
Had a great time with Jason! He was a very good instructor. He tailored our class to exactly what we wanted to do and learn. I would definitely continue and take future classes with Jason.
Sep 26th 15

Kacey
Class: Learn to Blow Glass with Jason
Jason’s Studio is really cool, I felt like I was getting a sneak peak at all his upcoming works! I’ll definitely be back =]
Sep 4th 15

Large Stemware Vessels by Jason

Keep in touch during 2016 and be the first to see the development of another new project by Jason Stropko. These vessels are already available to order, dimensions variable and subject to client choice!

The lowest of these vessels in this image is approximately 20cm high, and makes a stunning display for precious objects, truffles, fruit and bakeware.. As always your imagination is the limit!

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sizes can be completely modified to suit your display area. Prices: vary depending on size, number of pieces and technical difficulty! The pieces that you see here range from $400 – $750 each, depending on colour work, size and your timeframe. Individual pieces in a rush order can be delivered as soon as 72 hours from the time of order.  Please use the contact form tab above for enquiries.

Jason Stropko in the studio making drinking glasses for a commission

Below a few very short videos to show part of the process. Photographs of the finished pieces are coming soon, too…

We received final details of an order for drinking glasses a couple of days ago and Jason got into the studio to make each glass specific to the colours, shape design choice and sizes requested.

optic mould :

shaping:

blow mould (error in labelling that says optic mould, but it is a blow mould)

creating an extra large blown glass acorn

THIS acorn is now SOLD. We welcome your custom orders.

Jason Stropko creating a special order, extra large, blown clear glass acorn.. The small ones are usually solid glass and weigh about what a good paperweight does. All size acorns are available well in time for the Thanksgiving Winter season, we strive to complete your orders at the first opportunity. If we have a lot of work in the studio we will try and fit acorns between other production items. We know your order is special to you and it is to us, too. If you have a deadline by which you need any custom made pieces then please give us a call or send us a message before placing your order. We always try our best but it is still best to check in.
Prices for all acorns vary depending on size. For current pricing please check our shop or use the contact tab on our website.

Jason Stropko creating a special order, extra large, blown clear glass acorn..
Jason Stropko creating a special order, extra large, blown clear glass acorn..
large blown glass acorn
large blown glass acorn
large blown glass acorn
large blown glass acorn made by J. Stropko

(Limited acorns are available for $– please check current prices on our website shop or send us a message. Our prices have changed as our business grew since 2015.

Also worth noting is that we do continue to have occasional seconds sales of pieces that are beautiful but have small irregularities – perhaps a small air bubble or a slightly unintended shape. As the years have gone on we have less seconds these days than we did 7 years ago but it’s worth asking us about seconds if you love what Jason Stropko creates but need a more wallet friendly option.

All our glass is, yes the seconds, too, is tactile, beautiful and daydream invoking but may contain a small defect, which can be that the size doesn’t match it’s brothers and sisters or that it’s cap sits a little differently or it may have caught an unintended dent. Still a beautiful heirloom piece with a character all of it’s own)

Assisting Alex Abajian making large blown glass lampshades for a commission

As an outsider I just keep finding it amazing how much physical energy and simultaneous fine tuned technical skill goes into making each object that emerges from the hands of any of the glassmakers here at the studio.

Alex Abajian making custom lampshades matching existing sets precisely. When you work with technically advanced glassmakers you will get what you pay for: very special glass pieces!
Alex Abajian making custom lampshades matching existing sets precisely. When you work with technically advanced glassmakers you will get what you pay for: very special glass pieces!

Alex Abajian has some serious skills and a few more years of experience than most of the other glassmakers around the studio. It is always additionally exciting when two or more talented makers work together!

Blown Glass Sunflower Seed (large)

Watching the entire process of Jason creating a single seed takes a good 30 – 45 minutes. Many steps are involved in the making of each individual seed. Good timing and control of the glass is essential. ..

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Jason Stropko in the process of creating another blown & sculpted glass sunflower seed for his collection of glass nuts & seeds ..
Jason Stropko creating another blown & sculpted glass sunflower seed for his signature collection of glass nuts & seeds ..
Jason Stropko with an almost completed blown & sculpted glass sunflower seed from his collection of glass nuts & seeds .. (Available for purchase anytime.)

#2 from the day of working with Alex Abajian and Ivan Mora

(written from the perspective of a glass-layperson)

This was one of the most exciting projects that I have been able to witness at the Glass Studio so far. The teamwork among these glassmakers is really great, there is a huge amount of competency coupled with fantastic working atmosphere. The day is spent working incredibly hard with serious concentration and yet there is always a surprise moment when Alex’s intelligent sense of humour gives occasion for laughter and short refreshing relief. I have rarely seen people work so incredibly well together as here at Glow Glass Studio in Oakland.

Alex Abajian holding the blowpipe with the large body cast glass (project for Ivan Mora)

Witnessing this process and the attitudes the makers and artists here have with each other has done a lot for my appreciation of the craft and technical skills-manship but also is taking dusting influence over both Jason and my (Birgit’s) future choices of places to live and creative paths to pursue.

Having this opportunity to be here is incredible. Seeing all this hard work affects hugely how I, as an artist and glass-layperson, am able to appreciate this material and the possible forms of expression. Coming from a conceptual arts background it is refreshing to be surrounded by the down to earth labour these creatives are bringing to the table each day.

Jason torching the large glass body cast to keep it at even temperature to protect it from cracking before it can be placed into the annealer for a day long, controlled cooling process.. Project by Glass Artist: Ivan Mora
Jason torching the large glass body cast to keep it at even temperature to protect it from cracking before it can be placed into the annealer for a day long, controlled cooling process.. Project by Glass Artist: Ivan Mora

After witnessing just how much dedication and years of skill are required to excel in this field, seeing the amount of dedication as well as equipment required to build a smooth running glassblowing workshop changed my perception a lot. The value of glass in our society is huge, this is an age old but simultaneously incredibly fresh and contemporary medium that can teach us something about the value of an object that a China or Mexico produced (knocked out) mass ware item will never be able to.

When you see or hold handblown glass there is a connection that you will not experience with mass market products. In theory wine, juice or water should taste the same out of every drinking glass for example, however in practice: if you have any sensibility at all then the experience of drinking from a handmade vessel will be far superior and infinitely more pleasurable than from a  throwaway valued glass or paper cup..

Alex Abajian holding the blowpipe with the large body cast glass (project for Ivan Mora)Don’t let the price fool you: you will receive what you pay for. A lifelong heirloom treasure or an anonymous object that is the same the world over…

Back to Ivan Mora: look him up! He is a really successful artist making his way in the world; quite literally globally! And all the while he is also a real pleasure to speak with. This is the best combination in an artist isn’t it? Talent, success and absence of attitude. Brilliant stuff!

Making large cast glass work to commission for Ivan : at Glow Glass Studio – teamwork

Watching the casting process for a large glass art piece for Ivan Mora, another inspired and talented glass artist who works internationally! Today we had the opportunity to catch up with him a bit and I learnt that he was artist in residence for an extended period of time at the glass studio Berengo in Murano, Venice, Italy.

In Spring – summer 2013 Jason spent some time at Berengo Glass Studio before moving on to getting more hands on involved at Zanetti (practically around the corner from Berengo).

These are some of the world’s utmost renowned glassmakers and it was really exciting to hear personal stories of Ivan’s time there as well as to get to know him a bit better over a cup of coffee.

Casting at Glow Glass Studio with Alex Abajian, Ivan and Jason
Casting at Glow Glass Studio with Alex Abajian, Ivan and Jason

working with Glass Artist Jess Wainer at Glow Glass Studio…

Yesterday Jason assisted Jess Wainer creating her beautiful luminescent large glass lampshades for a client commission. In the light these shades virtually glow and diffract colour into these gorgeous washes of green, yellow, red.. When not hit by direct sunlight the shades are a warm golden honey yellow with a whitish fog over towards the rim.

The picture shows Jess’s work straight from out of the annealer after their overnight controlled cooling process; before the items are cold worked and finished, hopefully we can show her final pieces, too.

Each lampshade will sell for $1000, 3 were ordered.

Lampshade designed by Jess Wainer, created with assistance from J.Stropko