How to Choose Your First Glass Piece

How to Choose Your First Glass Piece

by Jacee Niblett - October 24, 2024

Purchasing your first glass smoking piece can feel like a rite of passage. Maybe you’re finally getting to choose something that is exactly what you want, rather than relying on the gear that is lying around. Or maybe it’s just the first time you’re putting in the effort to choose something that fits your needs specifically and caters to your personal preferences!

Your first piece of glass is an extension of your personality and lifestyle. From its shape and size to its color and design, this choice can say a lot about you. Choosing something that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing is a balance, but it's also what makes the process so fun. Glass pieces are beautiful, intricate, and often hand-crafted works of art that you'll want to display just as much as you'll want to use.

But rather than going in blind to a giant wall of options, it can be helpful to have some guidance and tips so that you know what to look for, and what considerations to have while shopping. So let’s jump in to some tips and tricks for choosing your first glass piece!

Size & Portability

The most important thing to consider when shopping for glass is, in my opinion, the size that fits your needs. Whether it’s a hand pipe or a full rig, most glass comes in a huge variety of sizes. Do you need to be able to transport your piece frequently? Or do you plan on setting it on your coffee table and only really using it at home?

How often you want to move it around will determine what size you need. The smaller the piece, the more conveniently portable it is. That’s not to say it’s impossible to transport a large water pipe, but you might want to consider something in the mid to low range of size if you need to move it around a lot.

Conversely, if you plan on setting it in one place and keeping it there, you might want to consider going big!

Shop the GRAV® Bauble Spoon

Filtration

The next thing to consider is how much water filtration you want in your piece. Water pipes often include different styles of percolation, but even a standard beaker style or a handheld bubbler will give you a bit of filtration - it just depends on what level you prefer.

On the low end of filtration is a standard spoon style hand pipe, which has no filtration at all. This is a great choice if percolation isn’t on your list of preferences and you’re looking for something super simple and easy. On the other end is something like a triple perc water pipe with three different chambers of percolation. Choose from options like this if you prefer the feeling of water filtered smoke.

Filtration comes in a huge range, and it really depends on preference. It’s a good idea to get a feel of what level you prefer before choosing what works for you, but it’s a good rule of thumb to remember that more percs = more filtration. And don’t ever hesitate to ask any of our trained employees for further info on levels and options!

Shop the Monark 8.5" Heavy Base Recycler Water Pipe with Uptake Tubes

Aesthetics

Finally, you have to consider aesthetics when shopping for your first piece, And this is the fun part! Functionality is important, but at the end of the day what makes glass pieces so special is that they are truly art.

So, find something that speaks to you like art does. What feelings are evoked when you look at the shape and style of each piece? Do you want something cookie-cutter and standard, or something that has decorative additions? What colors speak to you, or match your vibe?

Finding something that you just love to look at will make all the difference in your smoking experiences!

Shop the Blowfish Glassworks Silver Fumed 7.5" Hammer Bubbler Hand Pipe

Choosing your first glass piece should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, not a stressful one. By considering factors like size, functionality, and aesthetics, you’ll set yourself up for success with a piece that suits your needs perfectly. Whether you’re looking for something simple and sleek or intricate and artistic, the most important thing is that it resonates with you. Trust your instincts, take your time, and enjoy the process of finding the right match for you.

At the end of the day, your smoking piece is more than just a tool—it’s a reflection of your personal style and preferences. So, whether you're a seasoned smoker or a first-timer, remember to have fun with it and make your choice with confidence. Happy shopping, and enjoy the journey of finding that perfect piece!