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**(Deleted Post)** Posted: 1/24/2012 8:24:26 PM

(This Post was deleted by Twist on 1/26/2012 5:29 PM.)

**Re: Apprenticeship** Posted: 1/24/2012 9:13:45 PM

If you are really serious, you should consider a formal education a little longer. You say it is not for you, but some of the leading pipe makers in the industry right now graduated with degrees in glass. Also, you might have more luck if you started aspiring to learn how to make pieces that are legal, like tobacco accessories. The best way to learn how to make "one of a kind, unique" pipes is not necessarily to start off making just pipes. Start building a general knowledge of the material, and your progression will accelerate after the first few years instead of plateauing after you make your first double bubbler.

**Re: Apprenticeship** Posted: 1/25/2012 9:17:43 AM

Twist--

What do you have to offer?

Do you have any other form of income at this time?

**(Deleted Post)** Posted: 1/25/2012 11:12:14 AM

(This Post was deleted by Twist on 1/26/2012 5:58 PM.)

**(Deleted Post)** Posted: 1/25/2012 11:21:24 AM

(This Post was deleted by Twist on 1/26/2012 5:58 PM.)

**Re: Apprenticeship** Posted: 1/25/2012 12:36:57 PM

I ask because i need to understand more of what you are thinking...

Theres a few good routes here imo.

Please keep in mind, im no expert here, but ive been in your shoes.

You may be better off spending your money on the supplies and materials, and setting up at your place, maybe buy a grip of raw glass. That way, youve already got your tool bag set up. And youve made an investment in capital. Im not going to go into the ideals of art vs profit here, but I will say that, if a blower is making money, ie, paying his expences off so he can continue doing what he loves as a career--he probably wouldnt need a dime from you, (except for maybe cost of materials) even though hes sharing his knowledge. Rather, there is good reason for him to take you on, because he is profiting already as well. Its really a win win situation. Im not saying its bad to charge over the top, but i hope you get my drift.

An apprentice that has his own tools already, will get the contract over the one that dont.

Also, how easy it would be to session at your home, with a "master", and you guys could work out trades for tricks, you know? All hes got to do is show up. And no matter what happens, you will always have your tools to carry you along on your journey.

Im not so sure about a Master, working for the love and all. I know it can be like that for some, but if you want to go that route--invest in private lessons with these "masters" so when you hit it off big, you can have that on your "resume".

I do not recommend the college industrial complex at this time, when there is direct experience and autodidactic ways of learning glassblowing in this Age, and It sounds like you have already invested some time in that and you should continue absorbing as much unocculted knowledge about glass as you can-directly.

Hell, I walked into a production shop and learned the laymens way.I could go anywhere I like at this point. Theres always time to put another notch on your belt. It helps to know where youd like to be in 5 years.

If you have no ego problems and just have a love of learning the art, then you wouldnt be offended at becoming the point puller in a production shop. This is one way to go because the repetition really learns you quick.

My style is to treat my art more like a bussiness because when i started, i never did, and i damn near lost my ass because, well--i never put value to my art, i mean real value---I dont have any other income, so it has to pencil out. you are really the only one who knows what sucess is.

I mean, if you have expendable income, you should have no problem---it dosent need to pencil out then. Then I guess you are really livin.

I treat my products (pipes)like they are a nessecary componant to our livelihoods, as basic as bridges, welding, food. And i never have a shortage in demand.

Yeah, for you--if you got the cash, take a direct class with the masters you love.

**(Deleted Post)** Posted: 1/25/2012 1:34:47 PM

(This Post was deleted by Cow N on 1/25/2012 7:22 PM.)

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Apprenticeship

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