Art & Science of Materials
Glass Beads
Terms:
Fiber Blanket / Annealing Beads: used to slowly cool the completed bead
Bottle Holder: Assembly clamps on the edge of any table to hold the MAPP Gas tank securely in place without slipping
Bead Release: a thick liquid coating that prevents glass from sticking to metal
Fireworks Torch Head: Designed exclusively for Fireworks, this unique torch head has a self-igniting system for easy use. Special regulator dial at the base of the nozzle allows you to adjust air flow for truer, clearer and more vibrant colors.
Rake: Use to manipulate molten glass by dragging, raking, feathering or swirling the surface. It can be used to make air bubbles inside the bead or poke holds through the glass. Fireworks rake has a bent tip for a comfort grip.
Mandrels: Stainless steel rods used to wrap molten glass around to create a bead. The mandrels have a low heat transfer, keeping fingers cool while working in the direct open flame.
Glass Rods: The assortment of translucent and opaque glass rods are 90 COE (coefficient of expansion) and heat evenly and quickly in the torch flame.
Graphite Paddle: Roll or press glass on surface to shape. Experiment by rolling bead at different angles. Warm paddle before using by holding 6″ from the flame for approximately 15 seconds.
Heat Resistant Work Surface: Protects your table or counter top.
Tool Care Instructions
1.Proper bead making technique is to heat glass in the flame while working in direct heat with the tools. If a tool is used to hold hot glass, make sure it is not placed directly in the flame. Hot metal tools will stick to the glass. If you are using a tool to hold the glass, you want the metal warm, but not hot. It is acceptable to warm metal tools by quickly placing it near the flame.
2.If you are using a metal tool to poke, scrape or rake the glass, they should be as cool as possible. If it becomes too hot, switch it with a backup tool or immerse the metal tool in water to cool it down.
Igniting the Torch
1.The source of heat is the MAPP Gas tank and torch head. Ignite the torch by turning the control valve at the rear of the torch head slowly counter clockwise, releasing the gas. When you hear a slight hissing sound, hold the ignitor close to the top of the torched and ignite. If the ignitor fails to ignite the flame after two or three tries, turn the valve off and try again with a different ignitor.
2.Adjust the flame height with the control valve knob, providing a “blue” flame length of 1″ and adjusting the airflow opening to regulate the gas to air mix.
3.Turn off the torch by turning the control valve clockwise, until the flame is exhausted. Do not attempt to handle the torch head until it has sufficiently cooled down.
How to add details to your flame worked beads.