What Are the Two Types of Glassblowing?

Glassblowing is a traditional craft where molten glass is shaped using air and tools. Over time, two main types of glassblowing have developed: freehand blowing and mold blowing. Each of these techniques produces distinct results and requires unique skills.

Freehand Blowing Technique

The free-blowing method is one of the oldest and most artistic techniques in glassmaking. In this process, the artist gathers molten glass at the end of a blowpipe. The glassblower then blows air into the pipe to expand the glowing mass into a bubble.

Unlike mold-blowing, this method doesn’t rely on any external mold or shape. The form is created entirely by the artist’s hand movements, tooling and breath control. Each piece is unique, with small variations that reveal its handmade nature.

Handblown glass is synonymous with freehand glassblowing. The artist shapes the hot glass by rotating and blowing through the pipe while constantly adjusting its form with tools. It requires precision and timing because the glass cools quickly.

This technique often produces decorative pieces like vases, ornaments, and custom glassware. The small air bubbles, uneven curves, and soft ripples are marks of authenticity, showing that the glass was shaped by hand rather than machine.

Freehand blown or handblown glass carries great artistic value because no two items are ever identical. Each reflects the artist’s skill, rhythm, and creativity, making it ideal for collectors and designers who value uniqueness. 

Mold-Blowing Technique

The mold-blowing method uses a hollow mold to shape molten glass. The artist gathers the molten glass and blows air into it while it sits inside the mold. The glass expands until it fits the mold’s walls perfectly, creating consistent shapes and patterns.

This process allows for uniform production of cups, bottles, jars, and structured designs. Mold-blowing became common after the invention of the blowpipe mold in ancient Rome, which made glass items more accessible and affordable.

Today, mold-blowing is used in both industrial manufacturing and art studios. It offers more control over symmetry, pattern, and size compared to free-blowing.

Free-Blowing vs. Mold-Blowing

While both methods demand skill and experience, freehand glassblowing technique emphasizes creativity and mold-blowing focuses on speed and production”. 

Glassblowers often choose one of the 2 types of glassblowing depending on the desired outcome.

Modern Applications

Today’s glass artists often combine both techniques to explore new possibilities. For instance, a piece may be mold-blown first for structure, then hand-shaped for artistic detail. This blending allows for both precision and expression, bridging tradition and innovation.

Freehand blowing remains the preferred choice for custom and decorative glass, while mold-blowing dominates mass production for commercial purposes.

Cut Top Vessel, Moana Glass

Final Thoughts

The two main types of glassblowing, freehandblowing and mold blowing, define how glass art has evolved. Freehandblown or hand blown glass reflects individuality, craftsmanship,and technical proficiency. Mold blown glass, on the other hand, showcases efficiency.

Both techniques highlight the remarkable balance between art and science in glassmaking. Whether shaped by hand or formed in a mold, each piece carries the timeless beauty of this ancient craft.

Glassblowing is one of the most unique arts one can learn. You can also learn this beautiful form of art by taking glassblowing lessons at Lahaina’s only glassblowing studio, Moana Glass and learn under expert artists while having lots of fun!