Wig‑Wag

Wig-wag is a glass pattern characterized by wavy, zigzagging lines of color. It's created by heating, stretching, and twisting colored glass rods during the blowing process, producing the distinctive back-and-forth pattern that's become iconic in functional glass art.

Key features:

• Wavy, zigzag pattern of colored lines
• Created through twisting colored glass rods
• Color combinations create different visual effects
• Can be simple two-color or complex multi-color patterns
• Signature technique in heady glass culture

The technique starts with colored glass rods (called stringers) laid in lines along clear or colored glass. As the glass is pulled and twisted during blowing, those straight lines become the wavy, zigzagging pattern characteristic of wig-wag. Control over heat, twist direction, and stretch length determines how tight, loose, or flowing the final pattern appears.

Color choices significantly impact the visual result. Classic wig-wag uses contrasting colors — such as white and blue, black and white, or gold and purple — where the pattern stands out clearly. More subtle approaches use related colors for softer effects. Some artists create complex multi-color wig-wags with intricate color transitions. Fuming over wig-wag patterns adds another dimension, creating color-shifting effects on top of the base pattern.

Wig-wag appears throughout functional glass, from accent sections on otherwise simple pieces to entire works covered in complex pattern variations. The technique's versatility means it works equally well as a subtle detail or as the primary visual element. Many artists develop signature wig-wag styles — particular color combinations or pattern variations that become recognizable.

Wig-wag in the marketplace: A quality wig-wag exhibits consistent pattern spacing, clean color transitions, and proper integration with the piece's form. The lines should follow the glass shape smoothly without bunching, thinning, or breaking. Poor execution becomes obvious — uneven spacing, color bleed between lines, or sections where the pattern distorts unnaturally indicate rushed work. 

Wig-wag is common enough that you'll see it at various price points, but the best examples demonstrate both technical precision and artistic vision in how the pattern enhances the overall design. When paired with other techniques, such as fuming, cold-working, or sculptural elements, wig-wag becomes one component in complex artistic statements.