What is the origin of handblown glass?

The art of glass blowing dates back to almost 50 BC when Syrian craftsmen invented the technique. Its popularity grew with the rise of the Roman Empire, taking it through Europe and then to parts of Asia and the Middle East. Soon after, the beauty and utility of blown glass made it widely known and desired around the world.The first glass made in North America was produced in Puebla, Mexico around 1535 by artisans from Spain. Handblown glass arrived in the Guadalajara area in 1820.Central Americas first blown glass factory opened in Guatemala in 1970. Its founders learned the art from local people, which made them valuable assets for two more factories that opened in 1972. Over the years, a small community of artisans from Quetzaltenango came together to create Cantel Blown Glass Artisans, a cooperative that works together with Novica to share these unique creations with the world.

Handblown Glass at NOVICA Canada

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Featured Reviews

Blown glass wine glasses, 'Confetti Festival' (set of 6)

Cynthia

Mar 17, 2025

So Fun and Lovely !!

A gorgeous holiday gift to my newlywed niece. Quality, beauty, supporting small businesses, recycled glass. A great conversation piece !

Wine Glasses Tableware

Glass Tableware

Eco-Friendly Tableware

Handblown Tableware

Tableware

Blown glass rocks glasses, 'Elegant Energy' (set of 6)

Madeleine

Nov 1, 2020

My Kitchen Pantry is Filled with these Glasses

I buy them for me. I buy them for gifts. They are colorful and durable. I have never had one break, ever.

Dishwasher Safe Glassware

Favorite Patio Drinkware

Fire Blown Glassware

Glass Drinking Glasses

Glassware Drinking Set

Glassware Sets

Recycled glass tumblers, 'Green Mountain' (set of 4)

Amy

Jun 20, 2023

Beautiful Glassware

These glasses are so pretty on the shelf. I love that they differ slightly in size and shape, it's part of the handcrafted artistry that makes these glasses beautiful and unique.

Tumbler Glasses Tableware