Help! Cannot get bead off mandrel!!!
 

Hi Everyone,

I have a beautiful bead that is stuck on the mandrel due to lack of bead release (I know) does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can get it off??? THANKS! Sandra

You mean you made it with no release on the mandrel?
If that is the case, or if the release broke and the glass touched the metal, I'm afraid it's on there for good. A plant poke maybe?

The bead release was too thin :( what is a plant poke? Thank you so much for your help. Sandra

Just a decoration for a potted plant, stick the mandrel in the soil & let the bead show in there. Just an idea for you to still be able to enjoy the bead if it's one you really like.

You may still be able to get it off. Get one of those rivet tools at Lowes or Home Depot and it might come off.

Here's the thread about removing beads using a rivet tool:

http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...ighlight=Rivet

But know that if it's stuck on to the metal, you'll break the bead. I know first hand.

It sounds like it is destined to be a cake tester.

Any chance of getting it off by putting it in the freezer?

Try hitting the tips of the mandrel on a very strong surface like concrete or steel, it make takes a few hits.

In this thread someone mentions putting them in the freezer, worth a try.
http://www.lampworketc.com/forums/sh...removing+beads

Yup. Mandrel and glass will both contract at cold temp. Might be enough to pop off if it is not welded together.

Since the mandrel and glass have very different COEs the mandrel may shrink enough to pop the bead loose. Also try putting it in the freezer for a half hour or more then hold onto the bead with a cloth soaked in warm water. It may break the bead if too hot but what the h it's already 'broke'.

Plant stake... stick it in a plant and show that gorgeous bead off.

Sue

Have you tried WD40? I tried it and it works!

~Paula