CZs & How to Use Them

CZs & How to Use Them

CZs – Tips on Using Them in Beads Following Alexx Cheng’s wonderful demo on using CZs in your beads, Alice Henry organized a large group purchase of CZs. So here are a few tips for using those sparkly gems:   Spot heat and plunge a hole with a metal poking...
Tips and Tricks for Newbies and the Forgetful

Tips and Tricks for Newbies and the Forgetful

Tips and Tricks for Newbies and the Forgetful: Use a craft scissor holder to store tools on your table, or an old poker chip holder found from an attic sale –               they rotate! Boro requires different strength didymium lenses than soft glass. Never melt...
For the Beginner & the Forgetful

For the Beginner & the Forgetful

For the Beginner & the Forgetful by Janie Jones   As long as glass is hot, keep the mandrel moving so the glass doesn’t sag. -*- To make sure your finished bead is cool enough to go in the kiln, hold it under the table to see if it’s still glowing. -*-...
Glass Pen Nib Cane Tip

Glass Pen Nib Cane Tip

Want To Push Beyond Bead Making? Making Glass Pens Did you know that pre-made nib stock is available from suppliers?The secret is to not overheat the glass and pull it kind of cold. This will keep it from losing the grooves. The groves are what hold the ink. There is...
Ventilation in the Studio

Ventilation in the Studio

The Importance of Proper Ventilation by Lisa Daigle   Proper ventilation is necessary in all studios using a bench burner, (or torch). Even if you are outside in a sheltered area, it is important to ensure that the airflow in your work area is carrying the mixed...
Found Frit Holders

Found Frit Holders

Everyday Items As Frit & Enamel Holders Who in this group doesn’t love creative re-purposing ideas? That being said, let’s talk frit! Or more precisely frit holders. Of course you can buy something made specifically for holding frit but where is the fun in that?...