Top 5 Reasons to Attend a Glass Show

Does the idea of walking into a hall filled with beautiful glass:  A) Make you smile; B) Intimidate you (all those experts, you know!); C) Amaze you with the amount of beautiful glass companies like Cambridge or Hocking made back in the day; D) Make you want to get your checkbook out and Buy. It. All?

I can understand all of these!  Deidra and I went to the national show in Kokomo, Indiana in 2012 and Dave and I went to shows in Dearborn in 2013 and 2014 and the national show in Tiffin this year.  It’s an amazing experience.  Table after table after shelf after shelf full of clean, sparkling glass in rainbow colors including patterns you seldom see.  Deidra and I walked around in a daze the first hour or two!

So…  Why should YOU go?

1.  It’s a great opportunity to see patterns and colors that you have heard of but may not find in your local antique mall.  Go and see what appeals to you; walk around and talk to dealers to learn about the pieces that have your name on them.  Then you can decide which you want to look for in the future, maybe select a pattern or color or type of piece you would like to get.
2. Dealers are knowledgeable and can help you understand the patterns and the piece types.  After all, we don’t have cream soups in today’s dinnerware nor do we get to choose among claret wine goblets, regular wine goblets, cocktails, parfaits or water goblets.  It’s a great time to get answers and walk away a little better informed.
3. The glass is identified and priced fairly.  You won’t see reproductions and dealers mark every piece with the correct maker and pattern – although there are mysteries that stump even the best informed!  Prices are reasonable, not bargain basement but usually not stratospheric either. Dealers want to sell after all and many will negotiate a little if you buy multiple pieces.
4. You can see and touch the glass before purchasing.  If you’ve gotten stung online buying “mint” glass that is full of nicks or wear then you’ll appreciate the opportunity to check it out yourself.
5. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate American history by way of the superb craftsmanship and artistry of elegant glass and the intricate designs and colors of the depression ware.

The National Depression Glass Association publishes a list of upcoming glass shows here.  Take a look and find one that is convenient for you.  And about that intimidation factor?  Don’t worry.  No one will judge you by what you don’t know; they will only appreciate you for what you love, our gorgeous American glass.