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Inside Hudson Beach

If you’ve strolled the streets of Old City on any First Friday, you’ve most likely stopped by Hudson Beach Glass, the quaint glass works studio on Strawberry Street. Owned by Sean Gilvey, a third generation glassblower from New York, and his lovely wife Emily, a Philly native, Hudson Beach Glass has been a Philadelphia staple since it opened in late 2008.

What you may not know is that Hudson Beach offers a great variety of glassblowing classes that you can take year-round. Whether you just want to get a quick taste of what the art of glassblowing is all about, or want to go all out with a three-hour class, Hudson Beach Glass has something in store for any glass lover.

Learning how to heat glass @ Hudson Beach

We got to check out the two-hour “Appetizer” class, which offers an insightful intro to the shop, tools, equipment, and the art of glassblowing, as well as an initial foundation in body positioning.

Not only did I leave the class with a deep appreciation of this art form, but with my very own self-made colorful (if not perfect) cup and paper weight that are now proudly displayed on my windowsill.

The glass and paper weight I made @ Hudson Beach!

Classes start at $80 for the one-hour “Taste” course. You can take the class solo or bring a a friend and make it a date at no additional charge. And with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, this may just be the perfect gift for your artsy-crafty loved one. The studio is offering a Valentine’s Day weekend special: Call on February 13th or 14th and receive a one-hour class at a reduced rate of $65, which you can then take anytime after Valentine’s Day.

For the full list of classes and upcoming special installations, check out Hudson Beach Glass’ website.

Hudson Beach Glass Studio
26 South Strawberry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(267) 319-1887
www.hudsonbeachglasspa.com