Today we’d like to introduce you to Heidy Ashton
Hi Heidy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started about 13 years ago when I took a class in glass fusing. In that class I met one of my best friends and mentors who drew me to cutting bottles. In doing that I fell in love with bottles and the possibility of creating beautiful art with them. I love the process of turning something that would otherwise be discarded into something beautiful and functional again.
My first product was a candle cover sandblasted with a simple design. I loved it, and from there came candle holders, olive oil dispensers, incense burners, candles in wine and liquor bottles, drinking glasses, nightlights, soap dispensers and jewelry. The ideas keep coming! All of this is done by cutting, grinding, polishing, melting and/or sandblasting to create my pieces. Each one is unique.
I spent 12 years selling at shows and festivals all around Texas. At this time, I sell online through my Etsy page: HippieGlassShop.com, direct at my studio in Balcones Heights,and wholesale to boutiques and other vendors. I occasionally do shows and I teach. I am currently scheduling candle making classes in my studio and other venues where you can choose a unique vessel and mix and pour your own soy candle. I am looking forward to sharing information and fun. Please contact me to schedule a candle making class.
I feel I have only scratched the surface of what can be done with bottles and my art has definitely evolved. I have been so inspired and have had so much fun learning, teaching, and growing. I am looking forward to many more beautiful bottles, new friends, and fun!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It started off slow, with only a few products, a few shows, and a few sales. I picked up more and more shows. and continued to grow. Working shows with glass products is a bit crazy, as they are cumbersome, fragile, and heavy to move and setup. Learning what shows worked for me and what shows didn’t was also a challenge. The weather is a big factor with Texas outdoor shows. Wind, rain, cold, heat, and dust put your will to the test. It can be great! Or not. Those years were a big adventure, and I learned so much about myself, my art, and my business. Covid threw several twists and turns at us all. It challenged me to pivot the business so that I could continue to do what I love. During this time, I made the decision to rebrand from Artistic Creations by Heidy to Hippie Glass. In addition to the new name being shorter and easier to market, I truly feel like it captures the essence of my personality. I am excited about the future of Hippie Glass, and continuing the adventures!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have always been creative, and have been selling my art professionally since 2012. I specialize in recycled glass bottles, specifically wine and liquor bottles. I cut, grind, polish, melt and/or sand etch to take them from trash to treasure. I am know for my bottle work, and I take huge pride in my finished work and my unique designs.
I believe that one of the things that sets me apart from other artisans is my vision and creativity. As I’ve evolved my art and skills, I’ve expanded the types of products I offer. I absolutely love thinking of new ideas for new products, and I love seeing the potential in items that most people wouldn’t think to use.
In addition, I have a very strong commitment to creating sustainable pieces, so I try my best to use every piece of glass for my work. For instance when I cut a bottle to make a candle, I’ll take the top to make my Hippie Flowers or Hippie Charms. In addition, I’m very proud to use soy wax and cotton wicks in candles, both of which burn cleaner.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I would encourage folks to visit and purchase items via my Etsy (HippieGlass) page, While I do have a store front (2922 Hillcrest Dr., Balcones Heights, 78201) I would encourage you to call first for hours and availability (210 842 7563). I have a pretty large assortment of readily available inventory, but I’m always open to doing custom work. I’ve recently completed taking a champagne bottle from a wedding, cutting it to make a candle, and then sand blasting it with the names of the bride and groom and the wedding date. I’ve also made cups for wedding parties as well as cocktail glasses customized with names and jersey numbers for a football team.
Please contact me if you have a special event or need a unique gift item for that hard to buy for friend or family member.
I’m so fortunate to love what I do, and I love creating fun and unique pieces. Part of my reward is hoping that I bring as much joy and happiness to those buying or receiving my creations.
Pricing:
- $8 +
Contact Info:
- Website: https://HippieGlassShop.com
- Instagram: hippieglassshop
