How to Use the Jack Tool in Glass Blowing

A tool commonly used for glass blowing is a jack tool. It has several uses. Try using the jack tool once you have mastered gathering glass, centering glass and making a starter bubble.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Glass
• Pipe
• Block
• Jack

1. Smooth out the surface of the glass with the paddle portion of the jack tool while it is still hot.

2. Hold the jack in the center always to avoid being burned. When using the jack, it can get very hot as a result of the heat transfer from the hot glass. If the jack tool begins to smoke, dip it in water to cool it.

3. Use the blades on the other end of the jack tool to create jack lines.

4. Get the glass very hot to create jack lines. Getting the glass to the right temperature is the trickiest part of creating jack lines. If it is too hot, the glass can move and become deformed. If it is too cool, then you can not make jack lines.

5. Place the pipe with hot glass on a block. Adjust your body on the bench or the chair so that your eyes line up with the glass. Put the blades of the jack around the glass part, and squeeze the jack to create tension in the jack. The placement of the jack should be about a half inch below the natural indentation on the gather.

6. Rotate the pipe with your other hand so that it rolls back and forth along the block. The jack creates indentations.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use safety goggles when working with hot glass.
• Only attempt glass blowing in a well-equipped studio under supervision.