The Craft Behind Mosser Glass
CAMBRIDGE, OH – It’s one of the last companies of its kind in the region, and every piece is still made by hand.
In an age of automation, Mosser Glass is keeping a hands-on tradition alive. Inside Mosser Glass, the day begins with fire. With molten glass reaching temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees, skilled artisans carefully gather, shape, and press each piece by hand. What starts as a glowing ball of molten glass, is transformed into beautiful glassware.
“They gather the molten glass out of the furnace, they’ll bring out the amount needed, cut it off into the mold, and press it. All of the molds have the patterns of the piece on it. Depending on the size, it doesn’t take long for the piece to set. There are different processes depending on the item, but normally it’ll then go through a fire polishing and through a 3 and a half hour cooling process, then it’ll be inspected.” Co-Owner of Mosser Glass, Mindy Mosser Hartley said.
Since opening in 1971, Mosser Glass has continued a tradition that’s becoming increasingly rare. Once one of many glass manufacturers across the area, Mosser Glass is now the last company of its size in the region producing this type of handcrafted glass.
“We’re one of the last ones left and it all started here. There were several other glass companies around the Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania area and sadly they’ve all gone out of business. So, we’re the only ones left of our size doing this type of glass. We’re proud to say that and we’re staying very busy and we’re very happy.” Hartley said.
The company also offers free tours, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the glassmaking process. For generations, Mosser Glass has found its way into collections around the world, and that tradition is still burning bright.
If you’d like to experience the process for yourself, Mosser Glass is located at 9279 Cadiz Road in Cambridge. Visitors can browse the showroom or take a free factory tour. For tour hours and more information, visit Mosser Glass website.
