Tall, slender and a little bit whimsical, swung vases are one of the most eye-catching pieces of vintage glass. They're having a big moment with decorators and collectors, especially in bold mid-century colors.
What Is a Swung Vase?
A swung vase starts out as a short pressed-glass vase. While the glass is still hot, the glassworker swings it like a pendulum, and gravity stretches it long and tall. Because each one was swung by hand, the same mold could produce vases of very different heights and shapes. No two are exactly alike.
How to Recognize One
- A tall, narrow body, often stretched far taller than it is wide.
- A pattern that looks stretched out: hobnails become long ovals and ribs grow thin and tall.
- A wavy, flared or uneven rim.
- A small, heavy base compared to the height of the vase.
- Slight leaning or asymmetry, part of their handmade charm.
Popular Colors and Types
- Mid-century colors: amberina, deep amber, olive and avocado green, blue, ruby red and orange.
- Carnival glass: older swung vases with an iridescent finish are especially collectible.
- Milk glass: white swung vases, often with hobnail patterns.
- Hobnail and ribbed patterns: look wonderful stretched tall.
Makers to Look For
Many American glass companies made swung vases, including Fenton, Imperial, Northwood, L.E. Smith, Indiana Glass, Viking and Anchor Hocking. Most are unmarked, so collectors identify them by pattern, color and shape. Some Fenton pieces carry an embossed logo on the base.
What to Check Before Buying
- Run a finger around the rim for chips, which are common on the fragile flared tops.
- Hold it up to the light to look for cracks and cloudiness inside.
- Check that it stands steadily on its base.
- Look for scratches and wear on the bottom that show age.
Care Tips
Always hand wash vintage glass in lukewarm water, as dishwashers can cloud it permanently. Use a bottle brush for the narrow interior.
Display Ideas
- Group several swung vases of different heights and colors on a windowsill, where light can shine through.
- Use them as bud vases for a single stem, a few grasses or dried flowers.
- Line them up on a mantel or shelf for a dramatic rainbow effect.
Browse our collectable glass collection, and read our guide to cut glass vs pressed glass.