Lampworking is the modern version of Glass Beadmaking.

Glass Beads have been around for thousands of years. Today, new technology offers the Glass Artisan many easier and quicker ways to make more beautiful Beads than ever before.

To make Beads, Glass is melted carefully in very hot flame and gently wound around a Stainless Steel mandrel which has been previously coated with a substance that allows the glass to separate from the mandrel once it has cooled sufficiently.

As the hot molten Glass is added to the mandrel, it is sculpted and shaped, additional colors added, all with the intent of forming a variety of different effects and designs according to the whim of the individual Lampworker.
This process can take some time - often one to two hours (or more!) for a very large and intricate Bead. Smaller beads may take only minutes to make.

Once the bead is completed, it is removed from the flame and either immediately annealed, or allowed to cool slowly in an insulated blanket or container of Vermiculite/Perlite and annealed later in batches with other Beads.
Annealing must be done in a kiln. The process of Annealing refers to heating (or reheating) the bead to a preset temperature for a particular length of time, dependent on the size of a bead. "Soaking" in this high heat allows any stresses in the glass Bead to "relax" and bond, which ultimately provides a durable lasting strength to it's beauty. Beads which are not annealed are prone to cracking sooner or later.

Following the links above - you can learn more about Lampworking, and order Torches, Tools and other Supplies.
Feel free to email us with any inquiries! sales@ozziebuddy.com

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We offer TOTAL SOLUTIONS for Beadmakers! Everything you need in one Kit for the Hobbyist or the Professional! The Ultimate Budget Torch, the HotHead! Excellent "entry-level" Equipment. Great for all levels of expertise, simple, economical and easy to operate. Three time-honoured workhorses of the Lampwork Beadmaking Industry. Carlisle MiniCC   Nortel Minor Burner