Retiring the Pint, Collins, and Shot Glass — A Farewell and a New Beginning
Collage showing the retired Dombey Pint, Collins, and Shot Glass with retirement announcement July 2025
We’ve officially retired three of our most classic forms: the Pint, the Collins, and the Shot glass.
These shapes have served us well — sturdy, familiar, and beloved by many. But our studio continues to evolve. And these glasses no longer reflect how we work or where our creative energy is headed.
This isn’t just a production decision. It’s part of what it means to be an innovative studio — to stay curious, question what no longer fits, and make space for something new.
Why We’re Retiring These Glasses
For years, the Pint, Collins, and Shot glasses were part of our core lineup. But they’ve always been some of the most physically demanding forms to make — especially when repeated in large batches. After Ben’s injury, we had to seriously reconsider the toll certain shapes take on the body.
And as we paused to reassess, our creative direction began to shift as well.
We started asking deeper questions: What lights us up? What processes feel joyful, sustainable, and creatively alive?
These forms no longer matched the answers — not because they weren’t successful, but because we’ve outgrown them. As makers, that’s part of the process.
Making Space for Innovation
Letting go of these shapes gives us the freedom to experiment more deeply — with color, form, texture, and technique.
We’ve begun investing in new tools: a flame-working lathe, a microwave kiln, and an expanded palette of color rods. Our focus is shifting toward smaller batches, richer hues, and more sculptural expression. We’re exploring hybrid processes that blend hot shop techniques with new technologies — always with an eye toward precision, ergonomics, and play.
This isn’t about scaling up. It’s about evolving into a studio that reflects where we are now — in both body and spirit.
Still Want One of These Retired Glasses?
We know these designs have a following — maybe you’ve gifted them before, or have a set you love.
While they’re no longer part of our standard collection, we’re happy to discuss custom orders. If you’re looking for something specific, reach out to us here, and we’ll let you know what’s possible.
Looking Ahead
We’ll be sharing more over the coming months — from our experiments in flame-working to new color-driven designs and refined studio processes. This transition isn’t about what we’re leaving behind. It’s about continuing to innovate, to respond to what’s real, and to make with intention.
Stay Close to the Fire
To follow the evolution of our work — and be the first to know about upcoming workshops, studio updates, and behind-the-scenes process — follow us on Instagram at @StudioGlassblowerBen.
We’re building something new, one small batch at a time. Thanks for being here.
Why It Matters Where Your Glass Comes From
A glass isn’t just a tool. It’s part of the experience. And like the whiskey itself, how it’s made—and who makes it—affects everything.
Made in the USA means:
Stricter quality control
Fair labor practices
Lower carbon footprint (shorter shipping distances)
Support for artists and small businesses
When you choose a whiskey glass made in America, you're investing in something authentic.
Mass-Produced vs. Handcrafted: What’s the Difference?
You can feel the difference instantly. Mass-produced glasses are often:
Machine-molded
Thin and fragile
Soulless and forgettable
Our glasses—each hand-blown in New Orleans—are:
Weighted just right for balance
Flame-polished for a smooth, tactile rim
One-of-a-kind, with natural variations that prove the human hand
We don't hide the marks of craftsmanship. We celebrate them.
Built to Last (and Be Remembered)
Longevity is one of the most underrated parts of great design. Our glasses aren’t designed for one season or one cocktail trend. They’re made to last decades—and maybe even be passed down.
We’ve seen our glasses given as wedding gifts, corporate thank-you’s, even memorial tributes. That kind of emotional permanence? You don’t get that from a factory mold.
Made by People Who Know and Love the Craft
Glassblower Ben isn’t a brand that licensed a factory overseas. We’re a real studio. Ben Dombey built our torches, designed our stamps, and still hand-makes every piece that leaves our door.
We know our suppliers. We design our tools. We care about the fire, the form, and the finish.
When you buy a whiskey glass from us, you’re getting more than a product—you’re getting a piece of the studio, a thread in a story, a future heirloom.
How to Spot the Best Whiskey Glass Made in the USA
Here’s what to look for:
Clear mention of where it’s made (not just “designed in the USA”)
Signs of craftsmanship: variation, texture, detail
Small-batch production or artist ownership
Materials sourced with intention
Brand transparency: Who made it? How?
Final Pour
In a world full of shortcuts, buying American-made glassware is a choice to slow down. To support quality over quantity. To invest in something lasting.
If you’re looking for the best whiskey glass made in the USA, we invite you to explore our work. Our glasses aren’t just beautiful—they’re built for your best bottle, your most meaningful toast, and every story that follows.
Discover handcrafted, American-made whiskey glasses
What a $500 Bottle of Whiskey Deserves
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Dombey Glass
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The Dombey Glass
Some bottles aren’t meant to be rushed. A $500 bottle of whiskey is one of them.
Maybe it’s a gift from someone unforgettable. Maybe it’s been aging on your shelf, waiting for a milestone. Maybe it cost you more than you’d usually spend—but you knew the moment it touched your lips, it’d be worth it.
When that moment arrives, make it count. Let every detail feel intentional. And most importantly, serve it in a glass that honors what you’re about to pour.
Honor the Moment
The first pour of a rare whiskey should feel almost ceremonial.
Turn down the lights. Let the room get quiet.
This is about more than a drink—it’s about presence. A memory in the making.
The Right Glass Changes Everything
There are plenty of glasses out there. But most were made for bars, not milestones.
The Dombey Glass was made differently. Hand-blown in our New Orleans studio, every curve, weight, and rim has been refined to enhance how you experience fine spirits. It’s balanced in the hand, warm against the light, and purpose-built to elevate every sip.
No branding. No gimmicks. Just heirloom-quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time, just like the bottle you’re opening.
Savor, Don’t Rush
A whiskey this refined deserves attention. Pour just 1–2 ounces. Let it rest in the glass.
Notice how the aroma opens up with time. Sip slowly. Breathe between tastes. This is not the moment for ice or mixers—maybe a drop of water, if you must.
This is about honoring the years that went into that bottle… and the story you’re writing as you share it.
One Glass. A Thousand Stories.
We created the Dombey Glass for whiskey lovers who understand that how you drink matters just as much as what you drink.
This isn’t a bar cart accessory. It’s a piece you return to, again and again—on birthdays, quiet nights, anniversaries, and turning points. A glass that carries stories, just like the whiskey inside.
Looking for the perfect glass to serve your next rare bottle?
Rediscovering the Joy of Creation: Why Investing in Artistic Hobbies Like Glassblowing is a Game-Changer for Adults
In a world where our lives are increasingly dominated by screens, meetings, and endless to-do lists, there’s an undercurrent of longing that many adults feel—a yearning to reconnect with something more tactile, more creative, and undeniably more joyful. If you’re in the prime of your career or transitioning into a new phase of life, it’s time to consider the transformative power of investing in an artistic hobby like glassblowing. This is not just a pastime; it’s a gateway to mental rejuvenation, personal growth, and rediscovering the fun of play.
The Rebirth of Play in Adulthood
For many of us, childhood was the last time we truly played. We experimented, made mistakes without fear, and found delight in the process of creating. As adults, however, the demands of life often eclipse these simple pleasures. But what if I told you that you could reignite that same spark of joy today?
Glassblowing, an ancient art form that marries creativity with precision, is a perfect antidote to the monotony of our daily routines. There’s something deeply fulfilling about taking raw materials and transforming them into something beautiful with your own hands. The process is at once delicate and dynamic, requiring focus and mindfulness, which naturally pulls you into a state of flow—a state where time slips away, and you are fully present in the moment. This is the magic of play, reimagined for the adult mind.
A Hands-On Approach to Mental Well-being
While the act of creation in glassblowing is incredibly rewarding, the benefits go far beyond producing a tangible piece of art. Numerous studies have shown that engaging in artistic hobbies like glassblowing can significantly improve mental health. When we use our hands to create, it stimulates a part of our brain that is often dormant during typical work hours. This stimulation is known to reduce stress, enhance problem-solving skills, and even improve cognitive function.
Working with your hands also offers a meditative quality. The rhythmic movements, the focused attention on the task, and the tactile feedback from the materials combine to provide a calming effect, much like yoga or meditation. For high-achieving adults, this is a crucial outlet—a way to decompress from the pressures of a demanding career or a busy life.
Moreover, glassblowing specifically offers an added dimension of therapeutic benefit. The warmth of the glass, the subtlety of colors blending, and the soft hum of the furnace—all contribute to a sensory experience that is both grounding and uplifting. It becomes a form of active meditation, where the mind is both alert and relaxed. This duality can help break the cycle of overthinking and bring about a profound sense of peace and satisfaction.
Reconnecting with a Community of Creators
Another often-overlooked benefit of diving into artistic hobbies like glassblowing is the sense of community it fosters. In a glassblowing studio, you’re not just an individual; you become part of a collective—a group of creators each on their journey of exploration and mastery. This is a place where ideas are exchanged, encouragement is abundant, and every success, as well as every failure, is shared.
In today’s hyper-connected yet oddly isolating digital landscape, the opportunity to be part of a real, physical community has never been more valuable. Glassblowing studios become spaces of camaraderie and collaboration where you can connect with like-minded individuals who, like you, are eager to rediscover the joy of hands-on creativity. For many, this social aspect is just as valuable as the art itself, providing a sense of belonging that enriches both personal and professional lives.
Embracing the Art of Imperfection
One of the greatest lessons glassblowing teaches is the beauty of imperfection. In a corporate world obsessed with KPIs and perfection, here is an art form that embraces the unpredictable. The molten glass, alive and flowing, doesn’t always behave the way you expect it to. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s where the magic happens.
For adults, especially those in high-stakes environments, there’s something liberating about engaging in a craft where mistakes aren’t just tolerated—they’re celebrated. Glassblowing allows you to flex your creative muscles without the pressure of perfectionism, creating a mindset that can positively influence your approach to both work and life.
In a world where our lives are increasingly dominated by screens, meetings, and endless to-do lists, there’s an undercurrent of longing that many adults feel—a yearning to reconnect with something more tactile, more creative, and undeniably more joyful. If you’re in the prime of your career or transitioning into a new phase of life, it’s time to consider the transformative power of investing in an artistic hobby like glassblowing. This is not just a pastime; it’s a gateway to mental rejuvenation, personal growth, and rediscovering the fun of play.
The Rebirth of Play in Adulthood
For many of us, childhood was the last time we truly played. We experimented, made mistakes without fear, and found delight in the process of creating. As adults, however, the demands of life often eclipse these simple pleasures. But what if I told you that you could reignite that same spark of joy today?
Glassblowing, an ancient art form that marries creativity with precision, is a perfect antidote to the monotony of our daily routines. There’s something deeply fulfilling about taking raw materials and transforming them into something beautiful with your own hands. The process is at once delicate and dynamic, requiring focus and mindfulness, which naturally pulls you into a state of flow—a state where time slips away, and you are fully present in the moment. This is the magic of play, reimagined for the adult mind.
A Hands-On Approach to Mental Well-being
While the act of creation in glassblowing is incredibly rewarding, the benefits go far beyond producing a tangible piece of art. Numerous studies have shown that engaging in artistic hobbies like glassblowing can significantly improve mental health. When we use our hands to create, it stimulates a part of our brain that is often dormant during typical work hours. This stimulation is known to reduce stress, enhance problem-solving skills, and even improve cognitive function.
Working with your hands also offers a meditative quality. The rhythmic movements, the focused attention on the task, and the tactile feedback from the materials combine to provide a calming effect, much like yoga or meditation. For high-achieving adults, this is a crucial outlet—a way to decompress from the pressures of a demanding career or a busy life.
Moreover, glassblowing specifically offers an added dimension of therapeutic benefit. The warmth of the glass, the subtlety of colors blending, and the soft hum of the furnace—all contribute to a sensory experience that is both grounding and uplifting. It becomes a form of active meditation, where the mind is both alert and relaxed. This duality can help break the cycle of overthinking and bring about a profound sense of peace and satisfaction.
Reconnecting with a Community of Creators
Another often-overlooked benefit of diving into artistic hobbies like glassblowing is the sense of community it fosters. In a glassblowing studio, you’re not just an individual; you become part of a collective—a group of creators each on their journey of exploration and mastery. This is a place where ideas are exchanged, encouragement is abundant, and every success, as well as every failure, is shared.
In today’s hyper-connected yet oddly isolating digital landscape, the opportunity to be part of a real, physical community has never been more valuable. Glassblowing studios become spaces of camaraderie and collaboration where you can connect with like-minded individuals who, like you, are eager to rediscover the joy of hands-on creativity. For many, this social aspect is just as valuable as the art itself, providing a sense of belonging that enriches both personal and professional lives.
Embracing the Art of Imperfection
One of the greatest lessons glassblowing teaches is the beauty of imperfection. In a corporate world obsessed with KPIs and perfection, here is an art form that embraces the unpredictable. The molten glass, alive and flowing, doesn’t always behave the way you expect it to. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s where the magic happens.
For adults, especially those in high-stakes environments, there’s something liberating about engaging in a craft where mistakes aren’t just tolerated—they’re celebrated. Glassblowing allows you to flex your creative muscles without the pressure of perfectionism, creating a mindset that can positively influence your approach to both work and life.