Crucible Glassworks is a glass blowing studio and gallery located in Weaverville. Owned and operated by Michael and Hilary Hatch, the studio was founded in 1988 as The Crucible, which was the first community access glass studio to open in downtown Asheville. After ten years, Michael and Hilary outgrew their storefront location in downtown and built the current studio.
Michael has been working with glass for over 30 years. He was first introduced to glass blowing through an elective course at Virginia Commonwealth University. It became his permanent elective as he completed his degree in Sociology and Anthropology in 1989. Since that time, he has worked in studios across the United States, and his work has been represented in museums and galleries throughout the country. Michael is a long-standing member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild where he has served on committees and the Board of Trustees.
Crucible Glassworks is a fully accessible location providing ample parking. In the gallery, visitors will find a wide selection of uniquely functional and sculptural glass objects made on site by Michael. The studio is set up for live glass blowing demonstrations, even featuring a row of repurposed theatre-style seats.
Crucible Glassworks gallery provides a little something for everyone who is interested in hand blown glass. Some of Michael’s signature works feature marble patterns, face jugs, and sculptural figures such as bears. Prices in the gallery range from $20 ornaments to $8,000 one-of-a-kind sculptures and everything in between including vases, bowls, paperweights and bar ware.
Hours: Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm