1/4" Mandrels (Not Hollow) - Where Do I Get Them? What's the Best Source?

[samnjoe]

I have been having a real problem finding places that sell 1/4" mandrels in any affordable groupings. Does anyone know what the best source might be to get 1/4" mandrels get in either 9", 10" or 12" lengths? I'm not looking for hollow mandrels, but I am looking for "finished-end" mandrels.

I am not looking for hollow mandrels. But I AM looking for mandrels that have "finsihed" or "burnished" ends.

While I am always looking for the most cost effective way to enjoy my lampwork, I am not interested in sacrificing quality just to be able to get them faster. I am interested in buying a semi-large quantity (around 40), so mandrels that are "sold "in groups of" are best.



I really appreciate any help or suggestions!

[Pyroglasstic]

I get mine from the local welding shop,they are 3 feet long and I cut them myself.I dont remember what I paid for 3 feet its been so long, 1/4 mandrels last a long time.If you want I can find out for you.
Jeff

[jaci]

yep, for quantity and value go to the welding shop get 318 tig welding rods, or something very similar. (not stamped if they have them) Get a big set of bolt cutters (on sale of course ), and grind down the ends or take the chop saw to them with an appropriate saw blade to cut metal. The edges can be burnished with a dremel if you don't have a grinder.

have fun!

[Emily]

Isn't 1/4" inch awfully thick to try to cut with bolt cutters? 1/16 or 3/32, sure, but 1/4 would take some serious power.

If you don't find another source, you might try places that sell supplies to hobby builders (like model train layout builders). I've gotten stainless rods in various sizes from the department of Pearl Art Supply that has stuff for train habitat builders. They're not particularly cheap, and I have no idea what alloy they are, but I've gotten them and they work as mandrels.

[Dennis Brady]

Metal Mart sells SS rod in all diameters and will cut to whatever size you wish.

[jaci]

Originally Posted by Emily

Isn't 1/4" inch awfully thick to try to cut with bolt cutters? 1/16 or 3/32, sure, but 1/4 would take some serious power.

If you don't find another source, you might try places that sell supplies to hobby builders (like model train layout builders). I've gotten stainless rods in various sizes from the department of Pearl Art Supply that has stuff for train habitat builders. They're not particularly cheap, and I have no idea what alloy they are, but I've gotten them and they work as mandrels.

I did 5/32" (only 3 points smaller) no problem. you just have to have someone hold the rod or it is liable to FLY! Before I had bolt cutters I brought them to a local lock and key shop and told him what i was doing and he cut them for free. I tried to pay him, but he was happy to help out an artist at work! (bring beads!!!)

[menty666]

I'd think unless you get the special ones that are "normal" at one end and 1/4" at the other, you might consider the hollow stuff just for the sake of weight.

I bought some 1/4" rod in the metal section at Home Depot and cut it down into usable lengths with an angle grinder and cutting wheel but the stuff is heavy. I'm pretty sure this was just normal steel not stainless since I'm getting a little rust, but a little steel wool takes care of it.

[Howie]

I'm a big fan of the welding rod route. It may require a little cutting but bolt cutters are made to cut, well, bolts and I didn't have a problem. Clean up the ends a bit and you're good to go.

[krfteldy]

Is Metal Mart online or a retail store. And if it is a store, where is it located?

Thanks.

Nancy

[hotflashwanda]

Arrow Springs sells them; they are very nice quality, and come in either 9 or 12 inch lengths.
Anita
www.fireflybeads.com