The Blenko Glass Foundation:
Honoring Tradition, Fueling the Future.

With deep roots in Appalachia’s glassmaking history, we stand as a testament to the practiced skill and gritty persistence unique to the Appalachian glassworking industry. Discover the incomparable art of handmade, West Virginia glass and learn about the historic impact of Blenko on the industry, state, and world.

If you are looking for Blenko Glass Company’s current offerings, please visit our online storefront.

Skilled glassblower Shorty Finley, in a black and white photo, stands at his workstation using jacks to delicately cut down the neck of a large handblown glass piece on the blowpipe.

More about the Blenko Glass Foundation

  • Blenko Glass Company has been in operation for well over a century, making it one of the oldest continuously operating glass manufacturers in the United States. Its longevity speaks to its resilience and adaptability in a changing industry. With active apprenticeship programs and an eye on the future, Blenko seeks to bring another century of design, color, and impressive craftsmanship to the world. In an era of machination and mass production, Blenko Glass is dedicated to handcraft.

  • Blenko’s handcraft glassware transcends mere functionality to become pieces of art, representing a unique and exciting intersection of artistry and manufacturing.

    Known for (but not limited to!) the punchy and angular designs of the 1950s, Blenko garnered critical acclaim for innovative glassware, particularly during the mid-20th century when designers like Wayne Husted and Joel Myers put together collections that embodied the modern and futuristic trends of the era, making Blenko both the parlance of design and a household name. Today, Blenko has a passionate and diverse collector community across the nation.

  • Located in Milton, WV, Blenko’s historic factory is nestled between the Appalachian mountains and the Mud River and still produces innovative and handcrafted designs that underscore the historical significance of glass production in the region— while setting the stage for the future.

    Blenko’s story is intertwined with a larger narrative of glassmaking heritage in West Virginia and Appalachia and speaks volumes to a proud regional legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and perseverance.