The Process
of bending light
Neon glassblowing is a highly specialized and intricate craft that involves shaping and bending glass tubes to create luminous signs, sculptures, and artistic installations. Here are some key aspects of the handcraft of neon glassblowing:
Glass Tubing:
Neon glassblowing typically begins with clear glass tubes. These tubes can be shaped and bent to form letters, shapes, or intricate designs. The glass used is often coated with a phosphor material that emits different colors when electrified.
Design & Layout
The artisan carefully plans and lays out the design of the neon piece. This involves determining the placement of bends, curves, and letters. Precision is crucial at this stage to ensure that the final piece accurately reflects the intended design.
Heating & Bending
The glassblower uses a ribbon burner or other specialized torches to heat specific sections of the glass tube. Once the glass reaches a malleable state, the glassblower skillfully bends and shapes it according to the predetermined design. This requires a steady hand and a deep understanding of how glass behaves under heat.
Electrodes and Seals:
Electrodes are sealed to the ends of the glass tubes to facilitate the injection of neon or other noble gases. These seals need to be airtight to maintain the purity of the gases and ensure the proper functioning of the neon light.
Gas Injection:
After sealing the electrodes, the glassblower evacuates the air from the tube and fills it with the desired noble gas, such as neon or argon. Different gases emit different colors when electrified, contributing to the variety of colors seen in neon signs.
Electrification:
The neon tube is connected to a power source, usually a high-voltage transformer. When electrified, the gas inside the tube ionizes and emits light, creating the characteristic glow associated with neon signs.
