Derek and his team of six glassmakers have over 60 years' experience between them, and continue to pass on their craft to pupils, through regular workshops. Derek came to glass blowing after beginning his career in the film industry. He began using classic, English glassmaking techniques, as used by Whitefriars (James Powell & Sons), and from this grounding, he developed his craft by bringing in Venetian glass blowing techniques, which can create a range of effects, from light and airy glass to large sculptural pieces.