I don't think you're describing this technique, but it does have clear between the layers and might give you some ideas.
Lotus/artichoke/pinecone tutorial
http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...ighlight=lotus
Also, I believe that Michael Barley used a razor-type tool to create his baleen beads, at least initially. If you had a curved razor-type took, would that help?
Or, maybe it is this: wavy bead tutorial?
http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...highlight=wavy