Glory Hole
A reheating chamber that brings a cooling piece back to working temperature without touching the main furnace.
Shaping / Blowing
| Length | 600 - 900 mm |
|---|---|
| Internal bore | 6 - 10 mm |
| Material | Silicone or EPDM |
| Coupling | Swivel, 3/4 inch |
| Maximum temperature at mouth | 80 °C |
Compatible glass types
Soda-lime
Borosilicate
Lead crystal
Compatibility assumes the tool is rated for the working temperature of that glass family. Check the maker's documentation before use.
Overview
Blowing while rotating is the core skill of the hot shop, and it is only possible because of the swivel. The hose couples to the mouthpiece through a rotating joint so the pipe can spin freely while you keep your mouth on a fixed tube. Bore diameter controls how directly you feel the resistance of the glass: a narrow bore damps the feedback, a wide one transmits it.
Safety notes
- Inspect the swivel for wear. A hose that pops off a hot pipe is both a burn risk and a shock.
- Never blow into a pipe whose tip is blocked. Pressure builds in the hose and can burst it.
Using it well
Practical guidance
- A wider bore gives you finer control over slow inflation.
- Keep a spare swivel in the drawer. It is the part that fails first and it always fails mid-piece.
- Blow with a steady cheek pressure rather than short puffs to inflate evenly.
What to look for
- Low-friction swivel for continuous rotation
- Reinforced wall that resists collapse under suction
- Removable mouthpiece for cleaning
Reference information only. Specifications are published ranges drawn from manufacturer documentation and normalised for comparison. They vary between makers and between individual units. This page does not sell or endorse any product, and does not guarantee any result. Follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions and take hands-on instruction before operating hot glass equipment.
Related
Tools used alongside the blowing hose
Blowpipe
The hollow steel tube you gather on, rotate and blow through. The primary instrument of the hot shop.
Gathering / Blowing
Gathering Pipe
A solid rod used to pick up a gather when you are working solid rather than hollow.
Gathering / Shaping
Heat Shield
A radiant barrier that slides onto the pipe and protects the back of your hand.
Gathering / Shaping
See the gathering & blowing workflow
Read the category overview, or jump into the 3D Studio to see these tools applied to a live piece.