On The Torch Again...

Woohoo - I finally made some beads for the first time in at least three months! First I was in a slump, then it was too cold, and finally I got out of the habit. I hate when that happens. It's so hard to kick start myself when I do that but I got out to my studio and had a blast. I had forgotten how much fun torching is and how satisfying it is to see the glass taking shape in the flame.

I got to try a small batch of Striking Color glass for the first time and I can tell you it won't be the last - OMG this is fantastic stuff!!! It's so easy to get awesome colors from it. Yes this bead was made with only one glass. Oh the joy! Now I can't wait until my next torch session to play again.

Like all striking colors this one needs some serious heat to bring out the best colors. I heated the rod until it went clear then started winding it on the bead continuing to heat to clear as I went. I only have a little of it so I used it over some cheap clear glass to make it last. Once it was on the bead I let it cool down until it got quite dark and then I encased it and popped it in the kiln - super easy!