Custom Glass Manufacturing: The Lilas Vase

When AERIN approached Esteban Salazar Glass, they weren't looking for an off-the-shelf vessel. They had a vision: an elegant hand-blown glass vase that captured the refined aesthetic of the collection while preserving the subtle variations that only handmade glass can offer.

The result was the Lilas Vase, a handcrafted piece now available through AERIN's collection, created through months of close collaboration, prototyping, and traditional glassmaking techniques.

Transforming a Design into Hand-Blown Glass

The project began with concept drawings from the AERIN design team. We evaluated how each detail could be translated into blown glass while preserving the proportions, softness, and timeless character of the original design.

Every successful custom glass manufacturing project begins with understanding both the designer's vision and the possibilities of the material itself. The design to celebrates the qualities unique to hot glass: its fluidity, clarity, and organic movement.

Prototyping by Hand

Before production could begin, we developed a series of prototypes to refine the form, proportions, and fabrication process.

Members of the AERIN design team joined us in the hot shop during the prototyping session, allowing us to evaluate each piece together as it was being made. This collaborative approach made it possible to make informed decisions throughout the fabrication process rather than waiting until production was complete.

Working directly with designers during glassmaking creates a much more responsive development process, ensuring every detail reflects the original intent.

Creating a Signature Brand Detail

One of the final elements was incorporating the AERIN logo into the finished vase.

The branding needed to feel understated and elegant while respecting the realities of hand-blown glass production. After reviewing placement options, we developed a sandblasted etched mark that complements the piece without distracting from its sculptural form.

The result is a subtle signature that reflects the same level of craftsmanship as the vase itself.

Small-Batch Custom Glass Manufacturing

Unlike mass-produced glassware, every Lilas Vase is individually hand blown.

Each piece passes through multiple stages of production, including blowing, annealing, coldworking, finishing, and inspection, before becoming part of the final collection.

Because handmade glass is a living material, every vase carries slight variations in form and character. Rather than imperfections, these subtle differences are evidence of authentic craftsmanship and are part of what makes each piece unique.

This balance between consistency and individuality creates products with a level of authenticity that cannot be replicated through automated manufacturing.

Looking Ahead

Projects like the Lilas Vase remind us that the best results come from close collaboration between designers and makers. From early concepts through prototyping and production, every decision helped shape a piece that reflects both the designer's vision and the character of handmade glass.

We're grateful to AERIN for the opportunity to bring this collection to life and look forward to future collaborations.