Boro Glass

[krfteldy]

What is the difference between using a tube and a rod of glass in boro?

[fourpawsglass]

Tubes are typically used for hollow work. Certain techniques can be done with both a tube and a rod but the resulting design can look different. What are you looking to do?

[krfteldy]

I was just curious. I've worked in soft glass and would like to dabble in boro,

[fourpawsglass]

Try it - lot stiffer than soft glass and requires more heat. Just remember to keep it separate from your soft - different COEs so they won't like each other.

[krfteldy]

Thank you!!

[artwhim]

Tube can also be used as a blowpipe.

I would suggest getting clear in a variety of diameters to experiment and determine what type of work you like to do in boro. Personally I dislike making boro beads on a mandrel, but enjoy off mandrel and marble work.

[krfteldy]

Thank you. I took a class using boro making marbles and really enjoyed it. What brand of glass is most often used? Which clear is the best?
Nancy

[fourpawsglass]

Oh boy, the world of boro glass is growing every day. The major companies are Northstar, Glass Alchemy, Momka, and TAG. Each one has it's own color palette. Now, there are small companies popping up each day whose glass is just as amazing - Molten Aura, Greasy Glass, Sparkle Pants Ranch - to name a couple. The big trend now is glass that is light reactive in either blacklight, daylight, and compact florescent.

For clear there is Kimble, Simax, Schott, and Chinese. For just learning, I would recommend using whatever is cheapest. If you really get into using boro, then switch to a clear that is a little more in price. I use Simax.

[krfteldy]

Thank you for the great boro glass info. I didn't know where to start.