Meet Etsy Glass Artist: nickpaul

Chicago designer Nick Paul teaches Glassblowing and Glass Fusing in his spare time - and creates unique glasses from upcycled bottles. "The recycled bottle idea came from the need for more drinking glasses for a party," he explains. "The studio I work at throws these massive benefit parties were they give away hand made cups at the door. Each time there's a party we try and make five hundred or more cups...we were running short and somebody asked if it was possible to turn a bottle into a drinking glass." His unusual creations were a hit and sold better than the other glasses, so he ran with it. "I wouldn't really describe the recycled cup thing as my style," he jokes. "I'm a glassblower. I just happen to be able to turn recycled bottles into drinking glasses and vases." He's been at his craft for 8 years, but has only repurposed bottles for 2. He describes glassblowing as "a hobby that just so happens to pay." He started Etsy with the goal of making a little extra money for a car, but got such a positive response that he decided to stick with it. "Now I'm out there promoting myself and Etsy like crazy." He admits it's been a lot of fun, though. He advises his fellow artists also promote the site. "By getting others involved it helps spread the word." Please check out his shop: http://nickpaul.etsy.com/

-Wendy Baylis

Dharma Designs

http://dharmadesigns.etsy.com/