Glass Blowing is still a profession in some parts of the world. Places like “The Rogaška Glass Factory” in Rogaška Slatina. Here is where I learned that students in “Communist Slovenia” who did not qualify for University studies were given opportunities to become apprentices and learn a life long skill.

http://www.slovenia.si/economy/made_in_slovenija/2007100911012786/

In this particular factory some of the finest Crystal from the oldest patterns in the world are made, some are as old as 1,000 yrs.

Apprentices learn by assisting seasoned employees who stand on a platform--sort of like a stage were the elegant crystal designs are formed. The more intricate designs and colors are given to the finest trained workers.

Glass blowing can and does create medical problems. This fact was learned from William Noble Sr., my children’s grandfather, who was a glass blower in Irwin. Thirst is always a factor, same as in “Rogaška Slatina“, where apprentices pass bottles of beer to the glass blowers and keep count of the number of beers they drink. I believe they were allowed 3 a shift.

Another hazard is corroded arteries, from bloating ones cheeks for an extended period. Burns from melting and heating glass occurred, apprentices also took care this problem.

It was interesting to watch and talk with the apprentices, they readily knew that one day they too would be “Crystal Glass Makers“.

From the West Irwin Glass making factory, workers often were sent to work for companies in Jeannette (Glass City). They were the best workers in hand blown glass and the jobs they were sent to do were the most difficult .

For some it is called a hobby, for others it’s a billion dollar industry.