Neusole Glassworks

Neusole Glassworks is a small, non-​profit glassworks company located in Forest Park, Ohio (right off of I-​275). My boyfriend and I visited as a portion of Macy’s ArtsWave Sampler Weekend. We had both visited glasswork companies during our travels abroad and decided it was time to see the amazing artistry we have in our own backyard!
Walking in, you immediately step into a glass wonderland: Neusole’s glass artists have filled shelves and shelves with custom-​made works. They also have a small area with a few unique creations on display. We proceeded to the back ‘hot shop’ where two workers were putting a few pieces together. They would take their time mending and reheating the glass until it was perfect, working patiently and slowly to get the piece there.
For the Sampler Weekend, we were able to make glass flowers (or a sun catcher) at a reduced cost. I ended up working on the flower, which was so much fun! John Carter, the instructor, showed us the steps as to how each flower is made: from grabbing the clear glass to melting the color to forming the flower with just a pair of pliers. John was super informative, explaining the methodology behind each step and practice. Finally, it was my turn. Using the pliers, John and I formed the glass petals and stem together. Even though the glass was hot and soft, it was still extremely hard to pull and pinch to form the flower design (our first attempt did not work out at all), but John was patient and helped to make sure I ended up with a great final product.
Overall, this place was super cool to visit. The staff was friendly and looked forward to sharing their passion with the guests that day. A few other people arrived while I was working, and they all looked equally excited to take part in the day’s events. If you want to try something new to explore your creative side, I highly recommend visiting Neusole Glassworks!

Really fun experience, they are great at being hands on and guiding you efficiently through the process. Love the floppy bowl that I made!

I’m really irritated with this place. I don’t know if it is the instructor to blame, or the facility itself. I am an experienced glass blower, but I’ve never gathered glass (mostly bc i’ve never wanted to, not that I can’t do it), and since I hadn’t gathered the glass before I wasn’t allowed to do most anything with the piece «I» made. The instructor did all of the fun parts, while I sat and watched him roll out and shape MY piece. I got to put the color on and make the neck, and open the hole for the bowl. I did not get to heat it up, shape it, or twirl it to make the floppy part. The entire time I was irritated, bc I felt like i was being treated like a 6 year old, when I have been taking a lot of classes for over the last 6 months, and making more difficult pieces than a floppy bowl… all bc I had not gathered before??? I think I’ll go back for a second run with a different instructor who may have more faith in me, assuming it was the instructor and not the rules of the place. However, If i have to sit there and just roll the glass on the pipe while someone else basically creates the piece for me, I’m totally out and going to a different place.

This place rocks! First off, the studio is very nice; well maintained and clean. The staff is super friendly and knowledgable. Take a class! Get a group of friends and/​or family and schedule a private glass blowing class. Just to be able to see the demonstrations is worth the money!
The glass blowing class is unlike most others. You get to be hands on, using the tools and blowing the glass. Don’t be intimidated though; they are literally holding your hand through the whole process. You get to take home what you make; after its had a few days to cool down.
Just this past weekend, the facility did an anniversary auction event, where all proceeds went to charity. They provided beer, wine, soda, and food. There was a jazz singer for entrainment, live demonstrations and auctions. I’m really hoping this do this again! It was really cool!
Word of advice, keep an eye out for Groupon deals. If you see one, jump all over it!

Great fun! Well run, and engaging staff. Really enjoyed the opportunities to ask questions and learn about the art and craft. Alli helped me create a beautiful ornament I will treasure always. Highly recommended.