Glass Blower Working from a Shared Studio

Craft fair visitors, online shoppers, gift buyers, interior designers and small shops or galleries that stock handmade work.

Selling finished pieces directly at markets and online, plus wholesale to shops. Small commissions such as gifts or custom colours can add income.

• Hot glass skills from courses or an apprenticeship
• An eye for form and colour
• Patience and steady hands
• Basic selling and photography

• Studio hire is paid by the hour, so check your costs per piece before setting prices
• Check what insurance you need, including public liability for fairs and any studio requirements
• Hot glass is dangerous, so check safety training and protective equipment
• Breakages and failed pieces are common while learning, so allow for waste
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC once you start selling

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around £500 to £3,000, depending on studio hire hours, training, insurance and materials. Studio time is charged by the hour, so check your cost per piece before pricing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around £200 to £2,000, depending on how many pieces you sell, your prices and where you sell. Allow for breakages and failed pieces while you are still learning.

Check what insurance you need, including public liability for fairs and any studio requirements, and look into safety training and protective equipment for hot glass. Register as a sole trader with HMRC once you start selling.