Spotlight on Shwayze Glass
Since 2012, Shwayze Glass has been making beautiful glass pipes in Fort Collins, Colorado. We chatted with owner, Alex Pasquesi, about his background, process, and his pipes. The first thing we noticed about Alex is his down-to-earth personality and the passion he has for his art.
How Shwayze Got Started
Alex is following in his father’s footsteps as a glassblower. He also credits his abilities to taking classes from some of the greats in the field: Lucio Bubacco, Lauren Stump, Bandhu Dunham, and Andy Pollack. He currently rents studio space from one of his mentors, Big Z Glass, who has been a friend and collaborator in making glass pipes. Currently, Alex shares a studio with Shifty Glass, Dan Barto, and Ben Waggz.
The Glass Blowing Process
Alex works both on the bench and with a lathe, a machine that holds and rotates glass. He credits his amazingly rich colors to the alchemists that create them, Glass Alchemy, and Molten Aura Labs. In glass blowing, each color has their own working limits and stability issues. Because of this, some colors need a cooler, or more oxygen rich flame, and some colors need a hotter flame, called a reduction flame.
What Sets Shwayze Glass Apart
Alex is always making unique pieces and it is obvious that he is having fun with his craft. He also makes lights with blown glass and creates art with vintage pieces that he incorporates. Another thing Alex enjoys doing is sculpting glass, and he has made pendants and sculptures.
Where To Purchase Shwayze Glass Pipes
To buy Shwayze Glass directly through their website, click here.
Like and follow Shwayze Glass on Instagram, @ShwayzeGlass.
