Hair Comb Warmer Hot Plate

This month, our tip comes from our own very talented Juliet Page. Lots of us use murrini in our beads and warming them prior to use is often a challenge. Juliet took a commercial hair-comb warmer (many lampworkers use these for rod warming) and attached a metal tray to the top to create a large warmer surface. Just look at all that yummy murrini, hot and ready to go! Here Juliet shares her steps to modifying the appliance:

Disclaimer:  Try this at your own risk.

• Step 1: Purchase a metal tray. I got a copper one and stripped the varnish off it.
• Step 2: Bend and notch the sides (if needed) so it makes full contact with the “roof” of the rod warmer.
• Step 3: Drill two small holes on each side and wire the tray onto the rod warmer side rods.

An infrared thermometer shows 850 degrees inside the hut, 700+ degrees in the center of the copper tray, and around 500 degrees on the “wings” near the edges. A really neat patina has developed from the heat, and I love having a ton of room!”

As always, just like your torch and kiln, keep safety for yourself and your studio in mind – remember it is HOT! Don’t touch it, use it near anything flammable,  leave it on if you are not there, etc. if you decide to make and use this innovative idea!