In 1816, Sir David Brewster of Scotland was the first person to develop the “Kaleidoscope.”
Experimenting with glass, prisms and other optical devices,
he developed a cylinder like object which reflected symmetrical patterns
when viewed through the end of the cylinder.
He called it “Kaleidoscope” which is Greek meaning “beautiful-form-to-see.”
Sir Brewster left the study of the ministry and pursued the science of optics.
In the early 1870’s Charles G. Bush of the United States
began developing kaleidoscopes.
Parlor style is the majority of antique scopes we see at this time.
Current collector pricing for quality antique kaleidoscopes
range from $600.00 to over $9000.00
I learned to make kaleidoscopes in 1995.
Placing the first kaleidoscope in a distinctive glass bottle, which I still have.
My first mentor was Christy Moody of Blue Heron in Sandy Creek, GA.
Another mentor is Marilee Helmer of Colonial Stained Glass in Marietta, GA.
I have made over 2000 kaleidoscopes of distinctive and original designs.
I find most current kaleidoscopes to be dark with old style appearances.
I sought to change this by more light exposure and using the highest
quality mirrors. Both work well with the transparent glass bottle style.
From ’97, I worked repairing wheelchairs with a company called
“Make-A-Way” and continued making kaleidoscopes.
I gave numerous kaleidoscopes to kids in wheelchairs.
I felt they should be noticed for the fun of the kaleidoscope
rather than for being in a wheelchair.
I find the exterior to be most important.
It draws the participant to the kaleidoscope.
It must be aesthetic without the gift of the kaleidoscope.
The kaleidoscope is the added bonus.
There are 4 types of reflective surfaces used in kaleidoscopes;
Standard Back Surface Mirror, .
Mylar, .
Polished Metal
and First Surface Glass Mirror.
And in that order from least to best, quality and price follow.
I make kaleidoscopes only from First Surface Glass Mirror,
which is the finest reflective surface available.
I hope you enjoy these kaleidoscopes as well as I do.
Thank You,
Gregg Johnson
Now a look at the weather
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