Fenton carnival glasses are iridescent glass patterns which were

May 15, 2008 on 1:14 pm | In Arts, General, Home |

Fenton carnival glasses are iridescent glass patterns which were very popular in the begininning of the 1990s, and niche interest is continuing nowadays. More companies made similar clear glass dinnerware at other times, but Fenton carnival glass was far more popular usually. A major competitior wa Northwood glass as far as the iridescent glass fabrication is concerned - they started in 1908.

In October 1907 the Fenton carnival glass was introduced on a trade magazine and the production was started immediately after that. On the total patterns of 2000 made about 1000 patters are best known while the rest of 1000 patterns become rarer. Patterns like kitten and rabbit were popular among children.

The iridescent glass appeared to have a metallic luster and sheen and was very unique in appearance. Items such as bowls, mugs, vases, plates, and entire table settings are produced using this glass. Popular colors in which the pieces were made were marigold, cobalt, and amethyst and these were the best sellers.

Fenton carnival glass is made by pressing liquid glass into a hot metal mold. It takes the shape of the mold as it cools, and while it’s still hot, the glass is sprayed with a unique mixture containing metallic salts in liquid. This causes the iridescent sheen. To prevent cracking, it was cooled very slowly, taking a full 24 hours for the glass to reach room temperature.

The pieces were originally sold in dime stores across America, but after sales decreased and popularity waned, it was sold in bulk to carnivals who gave it away as prizes on the midway. This is how it gained the name “carnival” glass. The rainbow colors were also fitting in a carnival setting.

Fenton carnival glass, such as other clear glass dinnerware is being collected by many persons around the country. It is pretty often that individual parts are seen at the yard sales,to buy antique ones and for sales at on-line auctioneers as eBay. Because of the popularity there are auctions for only carnival glass. Search on-line for the auctioneers close to you.

If you treat your glassware with care, it will serve you for many years to come. It’s fragile, so protect it from being jostled, as that can cause damage to the surface shine. Store it away from sunlight to preserve the rich color. Do not put it in the dishwasher; rather, wash the pieces by hand with a soft cloth and dish soap.

Clear glass dinnerware has been a popular collectible for over one hundred years. Two of the most popular patterns for collectors are the Fenton carnival glass and the Northwood glass. As the years have passed by, Fenton glass has evolved from being originally sold in dime stores to being sold in present day online auctions like eBay, but you can still find the pieces at antique auctions as well. Glassware, like any other fragile antique, must be specially cared for. Glassware may not be placed in a dishwasher or stored in direct sunlight and it should always be handwashed with a soft piece of clothing and dish soap.

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