Manchester Hot Glass

Absolutely Incredible Glassblowing Experience! If you’re even thinking about trying glassblowing…DO IT, and do it here! This place is an absolute gem. From the moment I walked in, the vibe was warm, welcoming, and full of creative energy. You can tell right away it’s a true local craft studio, not some cookie-cutter tourist trap. The process of blowing glass was nothing short of magical. Watching molten glass transform into something beautiful with your own hands is honestly mind-blowing. The best part? The owner is an absolute rockstar!Super knowledgeable, insanely talented, and just an all-around awesome human. They made the entire experience feel comfortable, exciting, and totally unforgettable. Whether you’re a total beginner or just love supporting local art, this is a must-do. I walked away with something I’m genuinely proud of and a deeper appreciation for the craft. Can’t wait to go back and make more! Highly, highly recommend. 🔥💥💯

Andrew is awesome and makes learning to make glass products easy! Tim helps walk you through the process! Want to dabble and catch the bug for making glass? Book a class!! We will be back!

We’ve been going to Manchester Hot Glass glassblowing studio for over 10 years, and it’s truly one of our favorite places. Andrew is an incredibly talented artist and an even better instructor; patient, creative, and passionate about sharing his craft. Every class is hands-on, inspiring, and so much fun, whether you’re a beginner or have been doing it for years. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does and cares about helping each person create something beautiful. The quality of the work and the welcoming atmosphere make this place a true gem. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a unique experience or a new artistic outlet

We had an incredible time glass blowing and creating our own bowls.The studio provided a welcoming, creative atmosphere, and the instructors, Andrew and Tim, were patient and knowledgeable, guiding us through each step. The experience was both educational and exciting, and we left with one-of-a-kind pieces we’ll treasure forever. Andrew, our dinner that night was delicious too!

This was our second time there. First time was just me and wife. We had such a good time we had to bring our three boys to do it. Entire family had a blast. If in the area definitely recommend taking a glass blowing class. Andrew makes it a great experience for everyone. If not looking to take class they have plenty of glass work and art for sale there as well. Will be back again when we visit area.

I had an absolute blast here with my group of friends, and we all had an amazing time! There were 5 of us, and we were all able to make something different, which was super cool 😎. The experience was incredible, and the instructors were so patient and helpful with everyone. I highly recommend checking this place out for a fun and creative activity. I can't wait to go back and try something else! 🤩🎨

We had the best time! Andrew and Jim are an amazing team. It was such a fantastic learning experience and we created the most beautiful, personal pieces of art! Andrew kept us on our toes (and laughing) the entire time. There are so many types (bowls, vases, glasses, etc) and colors of glass objects you can create, with true artists guiding your hands the entire time. Thank you, Andrew!

Andrew offers a great class! From start to finish we had a blast... learned alot about glass blowing, made great pieces (with alot of help)& he and his assistant Jim were helpful with the entire process. My husband and I would definitely do this again. Great value for the 2 hours... highly recommend!

Great glass shop. Andrew is a quality glass blower. His shop offers a wide variety of beautifully blown glass vases, decanters, bowls, art pieces, pumpkins, paperweights and jewelry. Always worth a visit. You can also take lessons! Andrew will assist you in learning the basics of blowing glass. You will create a drinking glass, a paperweight or other items. Come in and check out this beautiful store.

I did the blown glass object class. I loved the finished result, but ultimately was disappointed because it wasn't really a class. The teacher did the majority of it. Even the simple stuff like rolling the glass in the beginning, you don't get to do. So while I enjoyed the piece, I didn't feel that I got an actual class experience. I would've enjoyed having a less nice piece if it meant that I got to participate more in the workshop and learn for myself.

FANTASTIC experience - highly recommend. Andrew and his team are amazing - super friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed our time due to Andrew's patience and humor (yes, he gave us a "hard time" - which was VERY funny and made us laugh). We left with a great piece to talk about for years .... Also truly grateful he squeezed us in at the last minute - our ski plans got turned upside down due to an injury and we were looking for something cool to do - this experience doesn't disappoint! Thanks again Andrew - Brenda & Sue

If you are at all sensitive or easily offended..do not go here. I went twice with friends and family. The owner helps you make the objects of your choice with a little guidance in color. Andrew is irreverent, not there to be your friend. He can be entertaining and funny as well as cutting and insulting. I had a good experience both times and thoroughly loved my glass projects. His helper, Michael and store keeper, Melissa were helpful and polite. Above and beyond, keeping my grandkids safe and offering help and support. Andrew was encouraging to the kids.

Well, what can I say? If you're reading this, you must already be considering signing up for a glassblowing class with Andrew. As such, don't waste any more time! Get in touch with them immediately to schedule - you won't regret it. Andrew and his team make the whole experience so much fun and informative. My two children and I had an amazing time and were pleasantly surprised by how much of a choice there was in what we could make. They ensured the whole process was both educational and safe. Of equal importance (for us at least), they made it exceptionally entertaining too! We made two vases and a bowl and I think the pricing for our creations and the lesson was very fair. We are so happy we went and it was definitely a great activity for me to do with my children. Thank you Andrew!

Super nice people and the glass pieces are incredible! Side note - I used to stay at this house in the early eighties during the Summers learning how to play guitar. The family that owned and lived there at the time will forever be part of the most incredible memories of my life. Cheers, Sean Kelly

I went with two girlfriends and we had such a great time . Andrew and Tim made our experience so much fun . We all made wavy bowls , picked out colors , and away we went. We laughed so hard and it was a great great time ! Highly recommend this business . They have items for purchase as well , stop in !

Accommodating, personable and EXTREMELY fun. Hands down, the best part of our sisters trip! The experience was memorable and the guys made sure safety was a priority! We would come back to Manchester just to blow glass again with Drew & Tim.

Thanks for your response, Andrew. But all you did was double-down on your sexism by blaming the victim. None of the ways you're trying to shift the blame back to me excuse your behavior. You DID know I was upset and you made fun of me for that. I actually love what I made, so that excuse doesn't work either. And I am big joker myself, so I was not offended by your obvious "blow" jokes and "gloryhole" jokes. It was the belittling that was offensive. I don't want my money back. I want you not to be a dick. Look, it's not just me. There is a long string of comments about your sexism before mine on this thread. It's time to stop blaming others and look at yourself.

Fun experience. We were hesitant at first and only wanted to see the process, but after seeing the couple ahead of us make a vase, we were reeled in and absolutely loved it. Andrew is fun and will have you laughing the whole time while giving you the instructions you need to make the glass item. We were able to pick up the vase the next day after it cooled and take it home with us (if you do not live nearby or will be leaving before the next day they will ship to you). We got our vase home and unfortunately discovered a leak from a small crack. My husband called to find out what epoxy they would recommend, and after providing pictures of the vase and cracks, Andrew was making us a new one to replace the cracked original. He even asked for more pictures to make sure it looked as close as possible to the one we made ourselves. It was a great follow up to make it right for us, and we appreciated it. On a side note, this is a good souvenir to make as it will be YOUR souvenir and something touristy That you could have bought anywhere. Recommend for a fun experience and something that is yours.

This was a blast. Andrew should be on stage. We really enjoyed the entire experience. Worth the trip. Thanks Andrew and crew.

The overall experience of making my own unique piece of glass was a 5-star, but I deducted stars mostly due to the owner's comments and behavior towards me during the glassmaking process. First thing, when I scheduled the class with the shop assistant, she didn't tell me there was a dress code and I showed up in nice clothes (not a huge deal). Andrew, the owner and the instructor of my class, liked to joke around a lot and said what came to his mind. During the class, he made some inappropriate comments that I will not repeat, and were very offensive. I ignored the comments and proceeded with the class, mostly because I was from out of town and I had already paid for my class/vase. He cooled off on the comments after he realized I wasn't responding to them. Again, the fact that I got to make art, was great! Parts of that class, not so great.

How the hell did I live here so long and never do this until this weekend?! A friend and I were looking for something to do this rainy weekend and booked ourselves a class for making a blown glass object. Andrew and Jim not only led us through the production of our pieces skillfully but kept us laughing the whole time. They worked in tandem to keep us safe and get the feel of what it's like to create something from the beautifully colored glass we chose. We can't wait to go back and do the 2 hour class. I highly recommend this for a wide range of ages. Skip the touristy purchases and go for an experience you won't forget. When you get home you will then enjoy your masterpiece and be reminded of your visit to Manchester, VT every time you use it.

No Stars if I could. Owner called me after all this time (a year) to tell me he found the glass he lost. He started off the conversation by saying; "Because you were so obnoxious about this...". He tried to blackmail me by saying that if I remove my negative review he would repair the glass. I have moved on.....and would never set foot in his shop again. If you look at other reviews I've written you can see that I am not the "complaining type"! Geez, get a life, bud.

I can't say enough about Andrew and Manchester Hot Glass Studio. My family and I have been coming to Manchester, VT for years. We never leave without visiting Andrew and his studio. He is so genuine, hysterical, great with children and a brilliant artist. If you are in the area don't miss out on an extraordinary creative experience.

Very cool place to shop & either take a class or watch the artists blow glass. Small glass studio & gallery w a nice selection of glass art, kaleidoscopes, jewelry, light catchers, bottle stoppers, exceptional variety of colorful bowls, wine/water/champagne/ glasses etc. Beautiful lighting- chandeliers, pendulum, & sconces to create ambiance & a unique artistic style. Custom orders! Windows, transome too. Friendly & funny staff.

Was visiting Vermont for the first time and heard about this place through yelp. I figured if I wanted to try something new, this could be fun. I wasn't entirely sure I even wanted to blow glass once I was in there, but for the prices you pay, it's almost stupid not to have the experience of doing it "yourself" and getting to take home the result. The staff working there was incredibly easy to get along with, specifically the owner. It's like your friend pushing you to try something new. The whole experience was enjoyable and certainly different for me. I definitely recommend stopping in her. It's good people and good fun. Happy I walked in.

Came here to treat my mom to a glass blowing private class with Andrew and Jimmy. We had an absolute blast. They are super friendly, welcoming, entertaining, and ensure you feel safe from the heating elements. We were so happy with our pieces and have a memory from the experience to last forever. Thank you for a wonderful time! We'll be back again in the future!

Andrew is hilarious and obnoxious. Going here is like sitting at the front row of a comedy show- you will get made fun of and you should also make fun of him right back. I can definitely see how some people thought he was sarcastic and rude, he is! Honestly though, we booked a group of 6 people and watching is fun but after a couple of people it may get boring so the comedy was entertaining. Jim, the other glass artist, was polite and quiet. I also walked around his store and his assistant explained to me the complex process of glass art/design. You will end up with a beautiful, albeit imperfect glass piece, I like to think it gives character to the vase I made.

Sooo fun! I've seen glass blowing before when I went to Venice years ago, but never thought I could try it. I stopped in here on my way back home. Andrew's designs are incredibly cool: they are all a modern, artistic version of the classic blown glass seen. I wasn't sure if I wanted to just buy one of his awesome pieces or create one myself. I decided to create one myself and I'm so happy I did. It was a bit scary to be near the fires and hot stoves, but they made it as easy as possible. It was one of the most fun and unique experiences I had! If you are on the fence about stopping in, just do it....you won't regret it.

Such a good time! We did the paperweight class and this stuff is harder than it looks. Andrew has quite a sense of humor and knows his stuff. The pace of the paperweight making is quick (gotta work it while its hot!), so he stepped in to help make "mistakes" look like we meant for that to happen all along. He cares a lot that your final product looks good. It shows. We had to get them shipped to us at home since we were unable to pick them up when they cooled, and they were packed really well with bubble wrap and peanuts. I still can't get over how beautiful they look. If we ever go back to Manchester, we're going to do a longer class.

Best memory making ever! We spent a week in Stratton and glass blowing was all everyone still talks about. We were a party of 7 with 4 young children from ages 6 through 11. We split our party up to do the paper weights and glass blowing. We were greeted by the Owner Andrew and in spite of his snarky initial impression was incredibly warm and endearing. He gave very serious instructions to us on what to do and how to behave in his workshop and all for our own safety. After the first 15 minutes I've felt like I've known him my whole life. We started by choosing our colors and then with heavy instruction from Andrew and his assistant Alice (who was exceptional and informative) began creating our object. Andrew went to far as to even tell us where to get the best photos and made a conscious effort to ensure that at least a few shots were without him in the frame. The children were initially terrified but Andrew was incredibly reassuring and supporting even showing us pictures of his daughter blowing glass at age 1! Incredible! Manchester Hot Glass is definitely a must do for any family visiting Stratton/Manchester. In fact it would be worth your while to go out of your way to visit you will not be dissappointed. Please be aware do not save this for your last day as the glass will not be cool enough for pick up until the next day. Also they close Tuesday and Weds and are in hot demand so call early to book. Do it early in your visit as you might want to return to make another object. We regret saving this toward the end of our trip and as much as we wanted to created another object we simply did not have time. Go there and have some fun! You'll thank me you did.

Had the best time learning glass blowing from Andrew and Jim. Great teachers and super funny. Definitely worth the trip! Highly recommended.

We had a great experience today. Felt very safe and even a bit normal while we were there. Just what we needed! Andrew and Jimmy were great and informative. They guided us through the process and we actually made the pieces ourselves (with their help) We will be back! Thanks to Andrew, Jimmy and Maddie

Andrew is amazingly talented and funny! What a great experience. Highly recommended! Five stars

I am fascinated by glass blowing and have ALWAYS wanted to do it. Well I recently crossed that off my bucket list at MANCHESTER HOT GLASS. Andrew and his staff made it such a great experience. Andrew is hilarious which made the experience even better. I made a 'wavy bowl" and I'm so proud to say, "I made it". I would definitely recommend taking a class at Manchester Hot Glass, next time I'll do the 2 hour class!

Highly recommend this to people near and far! What a cool experience and the end product is really beautiful. You get choose size, shape, and colors. I felt safe and entertained; the instructor is a funny guy!

My husband and i came to VT for our baby moon and wanted to have some fun while we are there. I have personally always wanted to try this and the prices were reasonable so, why not. We made paper weights ($50 each) and had such a fun experience doing it. I actually liked that we didn't need much notice and didn't have to sign any waivers or anything. It was just an easy going and personable experience which we both really enjoyed. our paperweights are awesome by the way and hope to come back and try to blow glass next time. The instructor was also very laid-back and enjoyable to be with for the short time we were there.

This was so much fun, did the two person two hour class. Everyone there was so nice and funny. An experience that you should not pass up if you are considering trying this - ABSOLUTELY go for it.

So much fun definitely recommend if your going to Vermont for Vacation. And maybe dinner in Manchester after, cute town. But Andrew was funny and really nice made the process less intimidating and more fun. I would recommend the 2 hr two people private. We did the one sculpture, but wanted to do more. So next time we'll do the 2 Hr class. So cool. So fun. Loved it.

This was not only one of the best experiences of our trip, but one of the best experiences we've had in years. The staff are friendly, fun, and endlessly knowledgeable. My wife and I each made a blown glass art piece that we are proud and excited to showcase in our home, and we would have paid good money for either. We honestly feel that, when combined with the experience, we got a steal on the class package. We cant recommend it highly enough. Please don't pass this up if you're in the area!

We went to Vermont to see the leaves, visit cousins and found ourselves with a few days where we weren't sure what to do. I saw a brochure on the Glassblowing Studio that was open that day - I think it was a Sunday - and my husband and I stopped in, without a reservation. Andrew Weill greeted us nicely, and I asked about the customer blowing glass experience. He showed pictures and encouraged us, without pressure. So we spent about an hour, sharing a fascinating and educational experience blowing glass. Andrew is not only bright, knowledgeable, but engaging and entertaining. Andrew was skillful in letting us both enjoy the time, and create a beautiful piece and a memorable experience. Our piece was shipped to us in California and arrived before we returned home. Wish I had bought a few pumpkins, which we also saw featured at Hildene. Next time, I'll make reservations and make it a group event. Highly recommend this! Am going to try to figure out how to post pictures to show the beautiful piece my husband made for me!

It's always a joy to stop into Manchester Hot Glass when we're in town. My wife and I have taken the two-hour class with Andrew and Mike and it was a blast. Fast paced and fun, you'll have a good time while learning some art. We have several pieces of Andrew's work in our home now and plan on stopping by on our next trip to VT.

Andrew is awesome. Have you ever watched Seinfeld? No Soup For You! He is fantastic and we were in stitches laughing the whole time we learned hot to do our own blown glass. Highly recommend.

Just had a glass blowing class and Andrew and Jim were fantastic!! Their personalities made the experience so much more fun and memorable. During Covid they have found a way to continue to provide an artistic way to spend time with family and loved ones! Cheers to them!

If I could give it 6 or 10 stars I would!!!! My girlfriend surprised me with an hour long class here at Manchester Hot Glass over the summer. The entire staff was absolutely amazing. Not only was it educational but Andrew was a fantastic teacher and highly entertaining! He is so genuine and kind and his passion for the art really shows!!! I actually just purchased the Glass Blowing 101 for my father for Christmas. You absolutely can't go wrong here!

On an icy/ rainy day in Manchester, my boyfriend and I were looking for something to do. We heard about glass blowing and went for it. The owner was willing to workout a time so it was one object, but two people working on it. We had the most amazing time! The owner is extremely funny and helpful! We definitely will be back!!

The best experience we had in Manchester. This is a MUST when visiting. Not only do you get to learn this cool art, but Andrew makes it fun and entertaining! He and his staff are true professionals and they are extremely generous! During the class, you are the one blowing the glass,...you are the one creating the art. And then, the next day, you get to pick up and keep your treasure for a lifetime! Prices are so reasonable and the glass pieces are beautiful. As soon as my wife and I buy a new home, we'll be contacting Andrew and his team of artists to create some custom light fixtures and sconces! Thanks Andrew for making Manchester cool!

Andrew the owner is exceedingly outgoing and hugely fun to interact with. We didn't do one of the classes or special programs but can believe they would be an outstanding experience and be THE memory of your vacation.

I've wanted to take a glass blowing class for a while, so when the opportunity presented itself during my vacation in Manchester I happily took advantage of it. My husband and I signed up for the two-hour glass blowing class with Andrew and Molly, and it was a memorable and fun experience. I found Andrew to be very accommodating, and like most of the reviewers on this site I thought him to be enjoyable and knowledgeable about his craft. He was serious when it came to safety, as he should be when amateurs are playing with molten glass, but he was also there to have a good time and make sure that we had a good time as well. Meanwhile, Molly was thoroughly sweet and incredibly helpful. They provided a very good balance to one another's instructional style. This was a great experience, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone.

Went to make bowls this weekend at Manchester Hot Glass and had an amazing time. Andrew and Molly made the experience so much fun. By the end, I actually liked being around Andrew (a first for me with a Yankees fan!). Really can't say enough good things about this place. We will be booking the class on the next trip up to VT. Thank you for a great time!

Great selection of glass pieces. Shop is right off the main strip. I love to give their handmade ornaments as gifts for all occasions. Nobody is ever disappointed. Definitely check this place out when you're in town!

This place is wonderful! Andrew has a great sense of humor and really let our kids get involved in the process. The pieces came out beautifully. This is our second time here and we are planning to make it a yearly tradition. My sons jack and Charlie were so excited to pick up their finished glass and paper weight.

Took a family day trip up to Manchester from Albany on a Sunday and stopped in at Manchester hot glass for the blown glass object class. Reservations are mandatory but making them is a two minute phone call. All three of us participated in the glass blowing. My father and I made pint glasses and my mother made a vase. You get to pick out two colors from a selection of about 15 or so and there are a few ways to incorporate the colors depending on what you are making. The owner and instructor Andrew guides you threw the entire process and will help with any decisions that need to be made. Andrew will gather and work with the glass when anything particularly difficult needs to be done. Other than that you really are the one blowing and shaping the glass with your own two hands. Andrew instructs and pretty much let's you give it a go completely hands off. It's only when you need help that he steps in, he doesn't take over for you but rather guides your hands to make the correct movements to manipulate the glass into whatever you make. The end result is a one of a kind hand made peice that your own personal ineptitude is present in but with Andrews guidance in no way is ruined by. Now the man himself, Andrew is the reason you want to come here. Aside from his skills in teaching and glass blowing he is one of the most fun people to be around I've ever meet. He is hilarious, quick witted, and full of stories that will leave your cheeks sore from smiling so much. Learning and actually physically glass blowing is exciting and rewarding on its own but Andrew makes it so much fun too. We were there for about two hours but it felt like five minutes because we were having so much fun. I truly cannot recommend Manchester hot glass enough. You will leave with a beautiful piece of glass and a huge smile on your face. Absolutely come here absolutely take a class with Andrew and you will absolutely have a great time.

My wife and I had the best time making glasses the class was well worth the time and money THIS IS A MUST DO Andrew and his wife Trish were great. We will return again.

We just went here for the two hour introductory couples class. Alex, the helper, was AMAZING! Super patient and she explained everything. However, Andrew, the owner, has got a mouth on him. Just kidding.! :) We spent two hours making paperweights, drinking glasses, a wine decanter and a vase, and I don't think we stopped laughing once. He will correct you if you start getting it wrong, but that's a good thing when you are working with a molten blob of glass that could burn your face off. We had an awesome time, made some really cool stuff and can't wait to go back. Don't forget to ask about the $4 discount.

A Time to Remember! I was looking for unique things to do with my husband and daughter on our weekend getaway. This experience far exceeded my expectations. Andrew and Molly were great. They helped us make some amazing pieces. I am hoping my husband buy's some flowers soon to put in my new vases.... Thanks again :)

Second time visiting Manchester Hot Glass and loved the experience as much as the first time! I love Andrew and his staff! Lots of laughs and I created a beautiful wine carafe! This is a "must" experience if in the Manchester area. I am already making plans for a return visit.

Manchester Hot Glass..this place was AMAZING. Andrew had so much personality and was so much fun to spend an afternoon with. My boyfriend and I went up to vermont for a winter weekend. Our fantastic concierge at the Equinox recommended that we try this glass blowing activity. My boyfriend and I agreed that it would be a fun afternoon activity and signed us up. We came a bit early, but Andrew welcomed us and we began! The glass blowing was awesome; I made a stunning glass bowl while my boyfriend made a paperweight. Amongst the glass blowing, Andrew really made the memory. He was so personable. After some small talk, we realized we had a childhood connection, being born and raised in the New York/New Jersey area. That's when he really warmed up to us. From there, the two hours that we had with andrew flew by as we talked about life in the big apple and his new home, manchester vermont. My boyfriend and i would absolutely consider this the highlight of our trip. we talked about it the entire way home and couldnt wait to show our friends and family our homemade blown glass sculptures. A big thank you to andrew who made our trip so much fun! we will certainly be back.