Working at the Glass Bubble

I just finished with my first week of glass blowing and I am already improving. The first day I walked in and within 10 minutes i was standing infront of a 2,100 degree oven full of melted glass. We started off making paper weights. We dip the glass in color, melt the color into the peice then shape it however we want, but time run out quickly before the glass cools and you ahve to heat it up again. After the basic weights we moved onto cups which involve actually blowing the glass. The professional blowers make it look so easy, when in reality its probably the hardest part of the process. I stand there for about 2 minutes with a redding face and blowing until my lungs just about give out. If the glass is still warm enough a little bubble starts to form, but can easily be deflated if there is just a bit too much air. I gather more glass on top of he bubble then blow it out again. Then the shape starts to take and from then i can do what i want with it. After a few wobbly glasses and some brakes in the cups, I am starting to get the hang of it. Today I realized how much i have improved when i began making bowls and cups with added handles, wings and other decorations. Also i made the perfect gift for mothers day so i am getting two things done at once! Also I ran into emily anagnostos and the urban development class in ohio city! I will post some pictures of my work next time. I hope everyone is enjoying their projects too!