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Old 2013-06-11, 4:06pm
Toni Lutman's Avatar
Toni Lutman Toni Lutman is offline
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Join Date: Jun 17, 2005
Location: Carmichael, CA
Posts: 3,098
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OK, obviously these aren't working photos since I don't have a third hand, but I hope they'll illustrate the Osibin Formers well enough for people to give them a try. I seriously use these on almost every bead I make, even if I intend to press them. There is a learning curve to them, but once you've mastered it, they make it much easier/faster to get a nicely balanced bead.

The main problem I've noticed when people are learning to use these is that they tend to work too cool. The glass MUST be warm enough to actually move in order to do any shaping!

I am right handed, so these will show how I work with the former in my left hand, and the mandrel in my right. The smaller end of the curve should be pointing TOWARDS you. There should be holes on each side of the formers to allow you to unscrew the handle and reverse it if you are left handed.

Once you've got your glass on the mandrel, pick a spot on the former that is close to the width of the wrap, and spin the mandrel in place. Be sure there is enough glass to touch all the way across. Don't get it too thin at the ends. You want enough glass to be able to get good puckers.



This next image shows how you would angle the mandrel a bit to work the end closest to your hand.



This next image shows how you would angle the mandrel to work the end farthest from your hand.



I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions, and I'll do my best to answer them. You can post in this thread (I've subscribed to it this time so I won't miss anything), but feel free to pm me if you want.

And again...I'M SO SORRY for the delay. I can't believe I forgot!
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