Raging Buffalo Glass is a glass shop run by Charles “Chip” Hall, a master glassblower with three decades of experience. Specializing in unique made-to-order pieces, he also opens his studio at McGuffey Art Studio to the public for lessons and annual holiday ornament blowing.
“Style and design-wise, it’s almost as if he can read our minds!”
I spent about four months learning how to blow glass and assisting Chip with commission work. He was always ready to explain new techniques and he is an incredibly friendly and creative guy. I picked up a lot of the craft quickly under his teaching, and was always inspired by his tenacity and his ability to solve difficult commissions. I always had a lot of freedom in the shop and felt like being encouraged to experiment really rounded out my skills.
We have been crazy fortunate to have several sessions with Charles over the years. Each time I continue to be utterly amazed by his unique talent & skill. I have attended with family and friends — and each time we have laughed, learned something new about the fine art of glass blowing, and have an outstanding experience. I cannot even begin to describe this utterly unique, brilliant experience. Charles is pretty much a spectacular artisan with a love for his community and his talent that he wants to share and teach others. I honestly cannot wait for our next visit!
Working with Chip is always exciting. Chip is warm and personable. He loves his craft and imparts that love to people that work with him. He creates joy with his studio and his work is incredibly popular with our supporters.
My sister and I stumbled into Chip's studio during an open art gallery not knowing what to expect. We were drawn to the whimsical ambiance of groovy glasses, metal structures, and a giant brick oven. Chip and Ramona warmly invited us in and offered us our first glass blowing session. We picked our colors and Chip worked diligently as Ramona guided us and explained every step that went into this delicate process. We felt as though we had attended what I would imagine one of Santa's workshops to be like. I was so impressed with how beautiful our ornaments came out! Especially considering that neither one of us had ever done it before. I couldn't have been more pleased with the outcome!
Chip has made countless pieces of hand-blown glass decor for both of our restaurants; including candle votives, intricate wall sconces, and unique light fixtures. Style and design-wise, it's almost as if he can read our minds! In addition, dozens of our employees look forward to spending a day each holiday season participating in ornament glass blowing with Chip at his studio in McGuffey. Chip's energy warms everyone's spirits year after year (or maybe its the heat from the kiln!). We join together as a team to pick our individual glass colors and designs from examples Chip keeps in his office, and the best part of going back each year is that he has different colors, styles and textures to choose from. We love cuddling up with his puppy while Chip allows us to participate in the execution of our ornaments! Sometimes they turn out extra large or a little small which leaves a great story for the following year - and all the reason to come back to try again!