CATFISH JAWN @catfish.jawn
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
7.5 years on the torch

How many years on the torch, and how did you get started?  
My first day on the torch ever was May 30, 2016. I took a lesson in Connecticut from Josh Souza (@jitsglass) and then began working with Jake Moskowitz (@jmglassco) upon returning to college in New Jersey that fall.

What is your favorite part of glass blowing?  
My favorite part of glassblowing is two-fold. Firstly, I absolutely love the heat. It’s a pretty surreal feeling when you become comfortable absorbing the immense heat coming from the torch while flameworking. Pretty indescribable if you’ve never tried it. Secondly, I love the people. The community of glassblowers I’ve been able to connect with over the last 8 or so years has gifted me some of my closest friends, and there are still so many people all over the world to meet!

What drew you to build on the Puffco platform?  
I took to making Puffco accessories upon the release of the Proxy a few years ago. The Peak seemed like a bit of a daunting construction and I never approached it. Once I saw the Proxy, I knew it was right in my wheelhouse as I love to make classic Sherlocks. I was also drawn to the portability and aesthetic of the carrying case, as it’s something I’ve tried to brainstorm for my own pipe-making practice, akin to the classical Meerschaum pipes of old. The challenge of creating a stylish, distinguishable pipe that was recognizable as my own while also fitting into the sleek case that Puffco created has been an awesome pursuit, as most of my Proxy-making has consisted of making case fitters.

What’s one of your favorite pieces you’ve made?  
A vase that I made for my former high school teacher. I made it in 2020, when I was struggling to gain traction as an artist and make sales. The support from someone who knew me well before I ever made glass was extremely encouraging in continuing to pursue my dream. She unfortunately passed in 2022, and that piece was a treasured object in her home. I often remind myself of it whenever the going gets tough.