Today’s NEXT BIG THING item is this beautiful handblown cupcake stand made by Amanda Goss from Providence, Rhode Island. Glass blowing is a relatively new skill for this 22 year old supertalent and we are thrilled to be her very first retailer. Let’s chat up some cupcakes, shall we?

What inspired you to make this item?
Who doesn’t love a good cupcake? And what better way to showcase your decorative pastry than to display one in its very own fancy glass encasement? As a big fan of cupcakes, the idea came easy for me. It was mastering it in the glassblowing studio that took some work. The ultimate payoff is seeing the giddiness and pride of people who are now presenting their cupcakes with class.

You pretty much just learned how to blow glass, right?
Yes. I recently started classes at Riker Art Glass with mentor Bill Riker. He’s been blowing glass for over 40 years and has been gracious enough to help me in this process. I have become totally fascinated and obsessed! I feel fortunate to have stumbled upon this seemingly dwindling art form. Currently, I’ve been really excited to learn this new craft and even more excited to share it, as I haven’t really shared my work before.

Well, we’re so happy to get this opportunity to work together. You may have noticed we don’t usually sell glass items too often but we had to make an exception for you, particularly when your sample came with its own BEAUTIFUL fake cupcake inside.
The fake cupcake was all thanks to Amy Sedaris, actually. Myyyyy hero. I used her fake cake recipe to make the frosting for that little guy. Threw on a glass bead and a wire stem and “presto!”. They’re fun to make so I’m including one in every order.

Did you grow up making things?
As cheesy as it sounds, I gained an appreciation for skilled craftsmanship as a young girl, watching my dad and grandfather work their magic. Summers growing up I worked outside with my dad - painting signs, building bookshelves, welding weathervanes; whatever we could get our hands into.

What are some of your other talents?
Before glass blowing, fashion and design are my first loves. Days in Providence for me are usually spent in my studio at home, designing, drafting, drawing and sewing. Galliano, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu, and Alexander McQueen - to name a few - are maybe a little too amazing for me to handle.

What inspires you?
My great-grandfather was an amazing artist; I’m his biggest fan. As far as art is concerned, it seems like he could do anything! His paintings and sculptures are a huge inspiration for me. To be honest, I’m also really inspired by people like you guys, who started from the ground up. Doing it yourself and making it all your own is what I’m all about.