Before he launched Sour Glass, John Whelan led somewhat of a double life. Living in south New Jersey at 19, Whelan was pitching for Salem Community College on a baseball scholarship while learning the trade of glass blowing in SCC’s trade school. That was in 1985.
For 4 hours a day, he learned the process of working scientific glass into various forms: Beakers, threaded glass tubes, test tubes, etc. At the same time, he had time in the classroom to create non-medical products, namely bongs. In 1989 he created the Twist, a zigzag shaped tube which became Sour Glass’ signature piece.
While Whelan loved the game, he knew his prospects would be better utilizing his glass blowing and in 1987 moved to El Cajon and began work with Robert Miskinis at Safelab n Santee. After Safelab ran afoul of the law in 1988, Whelan purchased its glass equipment and started Sour Glass. “I had free time to make stuff at my job because no one was there to observe what we were doing!”
After years in Pacific Beach and then on Kurtz Street he moved to Sour Glass’ current factory in National City.
By then the Twist was gaining a cult like following, eventually getting the attention of glass shops near and far.
Mission Gorge Smoke and Vape owner Ivan Korkis said “First of all, my customers like the fact it’s not only american made but locally made too. John’s a legend – I mean, hey, he invented the Twist He’s also easy to work with, family guy, has kids, and if there’s an issue he’s always right on it.” Korkis went on to say he’s been carrying Sour Glass since 2008 at his shops, including Alpine Smoke and Vape & Santo Smoke and Vape.
Most glass is imported from Asia
Ken Holladay of Salt Lake City’s Borosyndicate Glass of Salt Lake City said of Sour glass: “Customers love the shapes and designs. All the models are really unique. The kink fits perfectly in your hand. They really like when we mention that the owner makes them himself in San Diego- Most glass is imported from Asia and American made seems to resonate with our customer base.”
For more information visit Sour Glass by clicking here.
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