Storsjöhyttan Glassworks
Jämtlands län
Storsjöhyttan Glassworks, located in Jämtlands län, Sweden, is a unique studio glassworks established by two glass artists since 1995. Housed in the beautiful old power station in Östersund's harbor, it offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to witness the intricate and historic craft of glassblowing firsthand. Historically, glassblowing was surrounded by mystique and secrecy, with ancient cultures such as the Phoenicians associating glassblowers with magic and medieval regulations enforcing strict confidentiality. At Storsjöhyttan, glassblowing is performed almost daily, and visitors can see how hot glass is shaped and blown into artistic objects that are available for purchase the next day. All products are hand-driven and finished on-site, reflecting the studio's dedication to craftsmanship. The studio also offers glassblowing lessons and group events, inviting guests to engage actively with the craft. Storsjöhyttan represents a modern continuation of Sweden's glassmaking tradition, transitioning from large industrial glassworks to intimate studio workshops that emphasize artistic expression and technique.
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Tip: Visitors are welcome to watch glassblowing demonstrations almost daily, making it ideal to visit during weekdays when the studio is active. It is recommended to book glassblowing lessons or group events in advance via email to ensure availability. Gift cards for lessons are available and valid for one year from the date of issuance. Purchasing items directly from the studio shop allows visitors to take home unique, handcrafted glass art pieces.
Interesting facts
- •During the Bronze Age, the Phoenicians believed glassblowers were magicians, surrounding the craft with rituals.
- •In the late Middle Ages and Renaissance, glassblowers leaving Murano island near Venice faced death sentences for risking the spread of glassblowing secrets.
- •At Storsjöhyttan, all glass products are hand-driven and finished on-site, ensuring unique craftsmanship.
- •Glassblowing demonstrations at Storsjöhyttan allow visitors to see the entire process from molten glass shaping to finished products available the next day.
History
While Sweden's glass production dates back to the Iron Age with early glass bead manufacturing, the country’s medieval glassmaking was primarily focused on producing window glass for churches from the 1100s to 1300s.
Over time, glassmaking evolved from large industrial factories to smaller studio glassworks, especially during the late 20th century, driven by technological advances like electric furnaces.
Storsjöhyttan was founded in 1995 as Jämtland's first studio glassworks, symbolizing this shift towards artisanal, small-scale glass production in Sweden.
Place Guide
Glassblowing Studio1995
The heart of Storsjöhyttan where visitors can observe skilled glass artists shaping and blowing molten glass into exquisite art pieces using traditional techniques evolved over centuries.
On-site Shop
Connected directly to the glassblowing studio, the shop offers a variety of handcrafted glass objects created at Storsjöhyttan, available for purchase immediately after production.
Glassblowing Lessons and Events
Storsjöhyttan offers individual and group glassblowing lessons, allowing visitors to try the craft themselves under expert guidance. Lessons and group events must be booked in advance via email.
Contact
Phone: 063-13 36 30