my space
glass storage
mandrels ready for a bead
My beads are mainly made from Moretti and Vetrofond glass on a mini cc burner, GTT cricket and a hot head torch (depending on the size of beads and the amount of oxygen i have left). These beads are then annealed in a kiln to prevent cracking. Any broken beads are refired to make lovely cabochons which can either be made into pendants, or used for decoration. I prefer the ‘organic’ look, so you won’t find any florals in my collection! The 'studio' is in the corner of my lovely big shed.
I sell my beads at the Tanks Art and Craft Markets, in Cairns. These markets are held on the last Sunday of the month, from April to November. If you are interested in any of my beads, or just want to talk beads, i'm happy to chat!
Next stop...Etsy!!!
A FEW LESSONS I HAVE LEARNT:
make sure you have everything you need with you before you start.
keep containers of water within reach...and make sure one is at least hand sized...see next point....
don't try and catch the mandrel or rod if it slips through your fingers.
start an aloe vera plant in a pot.
don't answer the phone while you're working.
make sure dinner is organised or cooked before starting - nothing worse than being in the middle of a great bead with a starving child staring at you
make sure dogs are not sitting under the chair when you are working with glass that shatters easily - i.e. anice white.....!
don't assume you have enough just enough gas left in the cylinder if you plan to do a long session.
watch a demonstration on You Tube at least once a day.
ask questions and share your stories with other beaders, join a forum - it gets lonely on the torch sometimes.
BEST WORK CAN BE DONE AT MIDNIGHT