Joy McMillan Glass

Welcome to Joy McMillan Glass, where glass meets fun, colour, and a little bit of magic! I'm Joy – glass fiddler, colour chaser, and lover of all things playful and peculiar.

In my Saltburn-by-the-Sea studio, I use a technique called lampworking (think molten glass + fire + lots of coffee) to make joyful jewellery, cheeky decorations, and miniature sculptures that add personality to plants and smiles to faces. Everything is handmade by me, which means no two pieces are ever quite the same – and that’s just how I like it.

So, why glass?

Glass is weird and wonderful. It can be clear or coloured, tiny or towering, delicate or bold. We use it every day without even noticing it – but I want to change that. I love taking this everyday material and turning it into something surprising and delightful. If it makes you smile, fiddle with it, or say "ooh," then I'm doing my job right.

What I make

From fidget-friendly jewellery that doubles as stress relief, to googly-eyed bees and plant decorations that brighten up droopy houseplants, my pieces are made to be touched, admired, and talked about. They're equal parts art and play, and designed to bring a little joy to the everyday.

Doing our bit

I love giving old glass a new life. Whether that means turning an empty gin bottle into earrings (yes, I drank it myself!) or collecting Marmite jars just for the colour (I hate the taste but love the glass), I'm always looking for ways to work more sustainably. My goal? More recycled, less wasted, and beautiful all the same.

The bigger picture

At Joy McMillan Glass, it’s all about spreading joy, one handmade piece at a time. I want my work to spark curiosity, start conversations, and make people feel something. Glass is my happy place, and I hope my creations help you find a little joy too.