Tie-Dyed Glass Beadmaking

This is a demo of how to make a bead that has a Tie-Dyed look. I used Soft-Glass for this bead.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• flameworking
• lampworking
• glass
• beadmaking

[dawnrader]

I've been watching your videos with interest, however, I've yet to be told why you put the glass beads in a kiln, does this harden them and what would happen if you didn't do it?

[hotglass]

@dawnrader Glass needs to be annealed, or at the very least slow cooled or they will crack in half. If you want to sell your beads you need to anneal them in a kiln to prevent cracking and make sure they are safe for a lifetime. If you are just starting our you can use a "bead blanket" - (Ceramic Fiber Insulation Blanket) The blanket will reduce breakage by cooling the glass slowly but it does not anneal. Most folks start with a blanket and then get a kiln when they gain skill.

[hotglass]

I own presses by zooziis(dot)com and cattwalk(dot)com. Both make fantastic presses. I know Zooziis makes a heart press, not sure if Cattwalk does also. Presses are tricky to use. You have to have the press fairly hot and have EXACTLY the right amount of glass, at just the right temperature, on your mandrel. They are spiffy once you get the hang of it.

[hotglass]

Just checked. Cattwalk has heart presses also.

[o1324]

Ross you have any videos to buy? your such a wonderful instructor you have a teaching talent..thanks for all the videos

[hotglass]

No videos for sale. I just do this for fun. No pressure that way. I have more videos I want to produce, but like most people it is taking 100% of my energy just to stay employed and my family fed. I am optimistic that things will lighten up "a bit" and I can get back to the video production. ~R

[ArtbyJenG]

Thanks Ross,

Your videos are great and very informative.

Jen

[Melantha777]

I'm new to lampworking and have fallen in love with it. Your viedo are the best quality for the most interesting beads I've seen. You make it look easy. Thank you for inspiring and instructing me!

[acerb45666555]

during Viking days=8th to 11th century AD. they also made glass beads with spiraling colors! but considering the tools back then its quite a acomplishment! ps: Viking chicks had a big thing for colorful glass beads!

[o1324]

thanks so much ross your the best.