The master glassblower

The program opens with photos showing the versatility and expression of glass. Host Leo Geier explains that Johns Hopkins University employs full-time glassblower John Lehman because research scientists require intricate, complex glass equipment that no one has ever seen. Mr. Lehman demonstrates "pulling points" as he creates a ring seal for a trap. When Mr. Lehman first started blowing glass, there were only soft, soda, and lime glass varieties; now there are 75 different types and additional refinements are in process. A film covers the discovery of glass, from obsidian, natural glass used to carve weapons, vessels, and decorations, to the first manmade glass in 5000 BC and the Egyptians' glass jewelry and containers. Mr. Lehman demonstrates how to make a manometer from capillary tubing glass as well as the procedure in blowing a flask and a coiled glass tube. To demonstrate non-scientific aspects of the art, Mr. Lehman blows a swan, makes glass Christmas "snow," and completes a glass bird.