Chrissy Stocks has been creating art with a torch for over 28 years.
Stocks, a glass artist, learned the skill through an apprenticeship program at Glass Baron in Virginia Beach. She blew borosilicate glass (the same as Pyrex glass) with a propane and oxygen torch.
“I caught on really fast and was told I was a natural,” Stocks said. “After about six months of working, I was asked, along with another woman, to instruct new hires.”
Stocks later moved into production for nearly a decade before becoming a stay-at-home mom. That’s when she decided to set up a glass torch and studio in her garage.
“Once everything was set, I had to come up with what I wanted to make,” Stocks said. “I have always loved ornaments, so that’s where I started.”
She began making angels, snowmen, candy canes, flowers, glass balls and mermaids. Stocks also started signing up for craft shows, farmers markets and art shows. She sold her glass items in several local stores and through online handmade marketplace Etsy.
In August, Stocks opened Ollie’s Glass Shack, her first retail space, at 4465 Shore Drive, next to 2Beaches Studio. The store is named after her golden retriever, Ollie, who joins her at work as the official store greeter. The shop has a coastal vibe and carries a variety of handblown glass art showcasing sea life.
Ornaments, earrings, wine stoppers, fan pulls and cabinet pulls feature a variety of sea themes, including mermaids, sea turtles and octopuses.
“I think the most popular pieces are the mermaids,” she said. “All the underwater scenes on the wood base are very unique and fun.”
Glass ornaments are especially popular during the holidays, making it Stocks’ busiest season. Many customers have collected her ornaments over the years.
Additionally, Ollie’s Glass Shack sells metalwork spinners, candles, paintings and plant stakes.
Stocks said the hard work of running her own business is worth it because of the opportunity to connect with customers.
“I love meeting new people, and it’s almost like doing an art show every day I’m open,” Stocks said.
Lee Belote, [email protected]
