How to Install a Chihuly-Style Blown Glass Chandelier

A Creative, Flexible Installation Guide by Longree Lighting

Installing a Chihuly-style blown glass chandelier is not just a technical task—it is part of the creative process. Unlike traditional lighting fixtures with fixed layouts and rigid instructions, blown glass chandeliers are designed to be installed with freedom, intuition, and artistic judgment.

At LongreeLighting, our chandeliers are intentionally engineered to allow for flexible installation, making each finished piece a one-of-a-kind sculptural artwork.

No Fixed Rules: Artistic Freedom Comes First

One of the most important things to understand before installation is this:

There is no mandatory layout for a Chihuly-style blown glass chandelier.

There is:

• ●No required glass position
• ●No forced symmetry
• ●No fixed color distribution

You may:

• ●Arrange glass colors based on your personal preference
• ●Use our product photos as a visual reference
• ●Adjust and refine the composition during installation

This open-ended installation philosophy is consistent with industry practices used for museum-scale and custom blown glass installations.

Watch the Installation Video Before You Start

Before beginning, we strongly recommend reviewing our official installation video guide, which demonstrates the real installation process step by step.

You can find it here:
Install the Blown Glass Chandelier – Video Guide
https://longreelighting.com/pages/install-the-blown-glass-chandelier

The video provides visual clarity on frame setup, glass tying, and overall workflow, especially helpful for first-time installations.

How the Glass Is Attached to the Central Frame

Each blown glass element is made with a small pre-drilled hole near the top.

How it works:

• ●A thin metal wire is passed through the small hole in the glass
• ●The wire is then wrapped around the central steel frame
• ●The glass is secured by twisting the wire(don't need to be very tight)

This simple method allows:

• ●Individual positioning of each glass piece
• ●Easy adjustment during installation
• ●A layered, organic sculptural effect

Because each glass element is installed independently, the final composition remains flexible until the very last piece.

Preparing the Chandelier for Installation

Before attaching any glass:

• ●Ensure the central metal frame is securely mounted
• ●Complete all electrical connections and test the light
• ●Confirm the frame is level and stable

Once the structure is ready, glass installation can begin.

Two Common Installation Methods

There are two widely used installation methods for Chihuly-style blown glass chandeliers. The right method depends on fixture size, ceiling height, and site conditions.

Method 1: Assemble the Glass on the Ground, Then Lift the Fixture

(Best for smaller chandeliers and compact spaces)

For small to medium-sized chandeliers, many installers prefer to complete the glass installation on the ground first.

Typical process:

• ●Prepare a long timber branch or sturdy board and raise it horizontally
• ●Secure the steel frame cage of the chandelier to the support
• ●Tie all glass pieces onto the frame while working at ground level
• ●After completion, connect the frame to the chain or suspension system
• ●Carefully lift and hang the chandelier onto the ceiling canopy or junction box

Advantages:

• ●Easier access to all sides
• ●Less time working at height
• ●Faster installation for smaller fixtures

A handyman (second person) is strongly recommended to assist with lifting and positioning.

Method 2: Hang the Frame First, Then Install the Glass on the Ceiling

(Best for large chandeliers and high ceilings)

For large-scale chandeliers or tall spaces, the preferred method is to install the frame first, then add glass piece by piece.

Typical process:

• ●Connect the chandelier to the power supply
• ●Secure the ceiling canopy and hang the central steel frame
• ●Once stable, begin tying glass elements individually
• ●Install glass gradually, typically from bottom to top

Important notes:

Scaffolding or a lift is recommended for high ceilings

Installing glass individually reduces lifting weight

Provides better control for large and heavy fixtures

This method is commonly used in foyers, staircases, atriums, and commercial projects.

Tips for Placing Glass Lengths

Longest Glass Pieces (Standard Layout)

• ●Typically installed 2-3 glass pieces on the lowest bottom of the frame
• ●Creates a natural sense of gravity and vertical flow

Inverted Triangle (Upside-Down Cone) Designs

• ●Longest glass pieces are often placed toward the upper rings
• ●Shorter pieces cascade downward
• ●Enhances depth and sculptural movement

The below is an example for placing glass Lengths:

These are visual guidelines, not strict rules.

How to Arrange Glass Colors

There is no required color pattern.

Common approaches include:

• ●Even color distribution throughout the chandelier
• ●Grouping bold colors as focal points
• ●Creating subtle gradients from top to bottom

We recommend stepping back frequently during installation to evaluate balance from different angles.

Final Adjustments Make the Difference

After all glass pieces are installed:

• ●Adjust spacing gently
• ●Observe how light interacts with color and transparency
• ●Make small refinements until the composition feels complete

Many designers consider this final stage as “editing” the sculpture.

Installation Is Part of the Artwork

A Chihuly-style blown glass chandelier is not meant to look identical in every space. Its beauty lies in variation, movement, and personal expression.

Whether you choose ground assembly or ceiling-first installation, the goal is the same:
to create a chandelier that feels balanced, expressive, and uniquely yours.

At LongreeLighting, we believe installation is not just a step—it is part of the art.