How do I prevent distorted beads?

marla0416 · #1 2013-02-21, 11:38am

I'm a newbie still practicing round beads. My beads are nice and round until I put dots on them then they get all wonky. How can I keep the bead round while melting dots?

swamper · #2 2013-02-21, 11:54am

I had the same problem when I started. No one ever told me that I could let the bead "set" a bit while applying dots and just put in in the edge of the flame to add dots, moving it in and out of the flame rather than staying continuously in the flame.

houptdavid · #3 2013-02-21, 11:55am

Are you stopping for a long time while adding the dots?
Are your dots to large for the bead, thus more material in spots?

Even heat and keep turning they will even out...PPP

marla0416 · #4 2013-02-21, 12:57pm

Yes, I do take bead out of flame. When I'm heating dots I put bead under the flame. I think Houptdavid you're right. I am slow to add the dots. It's like pulling taffee. My rod gets stuck on the bead and I end up with too much dot!

houptdavid · #5 2013-02-21, 2:15pm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vf961G3xaPs

marla0416 · #6 2013-02-25, 12:07am

Thanks David and Swamper. That's helpful. Videos always clarify things.

beadbroad · #7 2013-02-26, 10:08pm

It sounds like your bead is too hot while you're applying dots, therefore drooping and sticking. After you shape it twirl it a few times out of the flame before you slow the process to decorate. Keep plenty warm but not soupy. You might have to overshoot the other way a few times and get some cracking, but it's a worthwhile exercise to learn how to judge the heat levels.

marla0416 · #8 2013-02-27, 2:48am

I'll try that. I do think I work too hot. I ran out of O2 last night. My Oxycon is supposed to be delivered today via UPS. I'm really psyched. Thanks for the info. I really appreciate people caring enough to share their knowledge and experience.