How Glass Straws are Made

Strawesome founder Daedra Surowiec, glass straws in Michigan, USA

Hi, I’m Daedra — founder of Strawesome and the maker behind every glass straw you see here. Since 2009, I’ve been designing and handcrafting straws that are safe, sustainable, and beautiful.

Before we dive in, I invite you to watch the short video below for a quick peek at the process. (It was filmed years ago — back when Strawesome was still brand new!)

The Craft: Torch Work

I use one of the oldest forms of glass blowing, called lampworking (or torch work). With a flame that reaches 1,500°F, I can melt and shape glass into smooth edges, perfect bends, and unique designs. Every straw is made by hand — no machines, no mass production.

The Materials: Borosilicate Glass

Each straw begins with borosilicate glass — the same durable, heat-resistant glass trusted in Pyrex cookware and even the space shuttle windows.

  • The clear or colorful tubing forms the body of the straw.
  • Colored glass rods are used for decoration.
    Both are toxin-free, hypoallergenic, and built to last.

The Process: From Tube to Straw

  1. Cut to size — We score and snap long glass tubes into the exact lengths needed.
  2. Fire polish — Each end is heated in the torch to remove sharp edges.
  3. Optional bend — For bent straws, we reheat the glass and gently shape it using gravity and a steel rod for consistency.

The Designs: Functional Art

For designer straws, I melt colored rods of glass onto the straw’s surface, creating dots, swirls, letters, or custom patterns. Each design requires careful control of heat, rotation, and timing — all while wearing polarized eye protection to see through the bright flame.

The Strength: Annealing

Every straw is placed in a special kiln (yes, mine is built from a converted steel mailbox!) heated over 1,000°F. This annealing process slowly equalizes and cools the glass, locking decorations in place and giving the straw its lasting strength. Without annealing, designs would crack right off.

The Result: A Straw Made to Last

At the end of the process, you don’t just get a straw — you get a piece of functional art. From torch to table, each Strawesome straw is handmade in Michigan with care, creativity, and purpose. These are built to last and backed by our Lifetime Warranty. 

Much love,
Daedra

Ready to Switch?

✅ Handmade in Michigan, USA

✅ Borosilicate glass (durable, toxin-free)

✅ Torch-fired at 1,500°F

✅ Kiln-annealed for lasting strength

✅ Each piece is functional art

✅ Backed by our Lifetime Warranty

Safe. Strong. Beautiful. Every straw is crafted with care.

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