- Salary statistics
- Glassblower
Glassblower
30 400 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Glassblower
What does a glassblower do? – Tasks and work environment
Glassblowers work with creating artistic and functional objects from glass by shaping molten glass using blowing and molding techniques. The profession requires great craftsmanship and artistic sense, as each item is often unique and handcrafted. Tasks include everything from preparing kilns and raw materials to blowing, shaping, cutting, and finishing the glass. Glassblowers typically work in warm workshop environments where safety is important due to high temperatures and heavy work. Collaboration with designers and clients is common, especially for custom or artistic projects.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for glassblowers has shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 34,382 SEK per month, while in 2023, it increased slightly to 34 662. In 2024, the average salary decreased to 30 900, which is about a 10.9% reduction compared to the previous year. This decline can partly be explained by decreased demand in the glass industry and changes in the craftwork job market. Despite being a specialized profession, it has been affected by economic fluctuations impacting both salary development and project availability. Nonetheless, there remains demand for skilled glassblowers, especially within artistic and small-scale production.
Glassblower salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK
- Gender differences: Data not available
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a glassblower, a vocational education in glassblowing or craftwork is usually required, often at upper secondary or post-secondary level. Many glassblowers combine formal education with practical training or apprenticeships with established masters. Artistic ability, technical understanding, and patience are key qualities for success in the profession.
- Vocational training in glassblowing: 2–3 years at upper secondary or post-secondary level
- Practice/apprenticeship: Often several months to years with experienced glassblowers
- Craft courses: Possible as supplements
- Prerequisites: Artistic interest and passion for craftsmanship
- Further education: Can be pursued through universities or specialized programs
Many glassblowers work in small teams where collaboration and communication are essential. It is common for professionals in the field to participate in exhibitions and collaborate with artists or designers to create unique objects that reach an international audience.
Common benefits and compensations
Glassblowers often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, and protective equipment. Some employers also offer opportunities for skill development, participation in exhibitions, or international collaborations. Holiday pay and insurance coverage are common within the profession.
Competition and challenges
The profession of glassblowing is characterized by high competition, especially in artistic and design-oriented production. The number of training places is limited, and establishing oneself as an independent glassblower often requires experience and a personal network. The market is affected by economic cycles and changing consumer habits, which can lead to periods with fewer projects. At the same time, opportunities exist in restoration, specialized production, and international projects for those with skill and niche focus. Keeping up with new techniques and trends is essential to stay competitive.
Tips for aspiring glassblowers
To succeed as a glassblower, patience and precision are important, as the work demands careful control in every step. Creativity helps develop unique objects and explore new expressions. Being collaborative and communicative facilitates teamwork in the workshop and with other professionals. A strong interest in craftsmanship and material knowledge is crucial for understanding the possibilities and limitations of glass. Flexibility and adaptability are also advantageous, as tasks and projects can vary greatly. Continuous further education and participation in industry events provide inspiration and new contacts. Finally, perseverance is key, as establishing oneself in the profession can take time.
Key facts about Glassblowers
- Education level: Vocational training at upper secondary or post-secondary level
- Work environment: Craft workshop with high temperatures
- Work form: Small teams or independent operation
- Demand: 341 job openings in the profession
- Special skills: Material science, design, and technique
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years in the profession, glassblowers can develop into studio managers, artistic leaders, or start their own business. Many pursue further education in design or craftwork to broaden their opportunities. The employment agency’s forecasts indicate that future prospects are relatively stable, although demand is limited and varies depending on economic conditions and location. Specializations in restoration, education, or international collaborations are possible routes for further development within the profession.
Frequently asked questions about glassblowers
- What does a glassblower earn?
- The average salary for a glassblower is 30 900 SEK per month in 2024. - How has the salary development looked for glassblowers?
- The salary has decreased from 34 662 SEK in 2023 to 30 900 SEK in 2024, after a longer period of stability. - What education is required to become a glassblower?
- A vocational education in glassblowing or craftwork at upper secondary or post-secondary level is most common. - Are there regional differences in glassblower salaries?
- Currently, there is no available statistics on regional salary differences for glassblowers. - What personal qualities are important for a glassblower?
- Patience, creativity, precision, and teamwork skills are central qualities. - What is the job market like for glassblowers?
- There are 341 job openings within the profession, but competition is high and the job market is influenced by economic cycles.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Glassblower has the SSYK code 7319, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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