Way back in around 1995 or so, I started out in the glass business making little face beads with a hot head torch, a pot of vermiculite, and a very nervous landlord LOL. I made them for a couple of years until I got my minor burner, went all marbles, and honestly I haven't made a bead since.
For Christmas this year, I gave a good friend of ours a card with a note in it promising to teach her to make glass beads... what have I done?
Anyways, I dug out all my old mandrels and my 30 year old jug of sludge (it is gritty beyond all hope), and I made about five or so of the ugliest beads I think I've ever turned out. Looks like I'm going to be practicing a little.
Before I go trying to teach this youngster though, wanted to know what is the latest greatest bead release going? I'm going to have to get some for sure.
Also do any of you guys have a technique for lining beads without a press, she's not going to be able to afford one, and I don't have one in my studio either.
Wish me luck, I've not taught anyone in a long time and I've not made a decent bead in nearly thirty years. LOL