Recently started firing our own beads and have 2 questions that hopefully can be answered here. We started using small cannisters of MAPP gas but it was getting pricey so we went for a large tank and switched to Propylene with a 6' hose connected to a HotHead torch. It works well however we're finding discoloration of the finished glass (getting dark, burning?) so we think the large tank may have too much pressure and subsequently a flame that is too hot. Does anyone here have experience with Propylene? If so do you put a regulator on the tank and does that help reduce the flame pressure/temperature? What's the best equipment setup for Propylene?

Second question is can you suggest a good kiln to get (and where) at a reasonable price? We're not doing beads for individual sale but for our own designs and quantities will be low for now.

Any comments appreciated.

I haven't worked with propylene, but do know that MAPP will discolor beads if the torch is set to high.  I'm sure you've tried turning it down already... but if not... try it. 

As for the kiln...  I recently purchased a Paragon Bluebird.  It is perfect for making beads... lots of room and a great price from www.mudinmind.com.  They list it for $499 including shipping which is the cheapest price I have found anywhere.  It's cheaper than some of the "toolbox" type kilns with nearly twice the room.  This kiln will support even a high-volume lampworker... so it's a great investment.

 Wishing you all the best.

Michelle

 

Thanks for the info on the kiln Michelle. Checked it out and looks like it would work for us. As for the gas, we didn't have any problems with the 1 lb MAPP cannisters except the expense which is why we bought the large tank and switched to the Propylene which had the approximate same torch temperature as the MAPP. We've tried a regulator to reduce the tank pressure but same burning of the glass results. Subsequently we hooked up the propane tank from the grill and voila, no burnt glass and works great with the long hose and HotHead torch so looks like we will just stick with that. Appreciate your reply and welcome to the forums.

hey i just wanted to chime in a give you some of my info..

ok for one.. consider moving up to a national torch .. they are reasonable priced.. at under a 100 bucks.. and you can now use oxygen and propane.. this will not only increase your speed but its just a much better torch and much better set up.. and its a baby step to a big girls torch.. lol

 so the reason your getting the black on your glass.. is......... not all of your gass was buringin up. so it was ending up on your glass.. its like unused gas... imagine if you can the gas is coming out the tank down the hose.. and then hits the torch head where its a flame.. well it has like x amount of seconds to burn up that gas.. this burn will create a suit and what is not burned up will muck up the glass.. the reason i suggest moving up a torch and adding oxygen is the oxygen can help to raise the flame temp.. alot.. and this will burn up the excess gas... also move out in your flame.. the closure you are to the head the more black.. if you move say 8 -10 inches out in the flame this also allows more of the black to burn up before hitting you bead...

 also .. if you choose to use your current set up.. then i suggest lowing the pressure on the regulator.. this will reduce the amount of gas coming out and help to get ride of that black...less gas means it has more time to burn up.....

 i do know that propane is less likely to do this.. but any gas can have excess... i also know pryex will not have this happen.. i mean its possible i guess but i have never seen it in my almost ten yrs at this..  how ever soft glass always has it.. u really gotta watch your flame wiht soft glass.. it way sensative.. and really requires a lot of practice to not over work your glass and or stain it with soot

 

well i hope this helps.. u might also try to post this on lampworkect.com i think thats the link.. email me if not.. but there a ton of people over there who are soft glass hot head people.. they can probly help u a lot...

also try wetcanvas.com

they have a glass section..

ok good luck emial if you need my help

thanks annie

Hi Annie!!

I am thinking about getting into lampwork bead making and have been trying to find an online store to buy the supplies I need to get started.  Do you have any suggestions?  I am willing to spend more on good equipment but I am not sure what's considered better stuff.  What glass do you think is best too?  I am so confused, I have seen different glass rods so I have no clue what's best long term.  My husband and I are looking to start this as a hobby we can do together so it looks like I am going to need two set ups!!   I appreciate any help you can give me!!

Thanks,

Kim Connors

www.beadbuddies.net

Hi Kim,

Just wondering if you ever got an answer on how to set up for lampworking!  Holler if you didn't as I can probably help get you started.  Warning!  It's Addictive!!  ;) 

Hi Kim...I'm not Annie, but I thought I'd pass along info on a supplier that I've gotten most of my equipment from, Arrow Springs down in California.  They have a great selection and their employees are willing to give you whatever info/help you need over the phone.  I don't know much about torches, bought a GTT Lynx and that's what I've always used, except when I go to workshops.  I can tell you that a small kiln will do, one the size of an AIM 99LS/D is perfect.  I thought I was going to want to do boro, so I ended up putting more $$ than I needed to into a 2nd torch and a larger kiln...and since I love doing soft glass beads, I haven't even used the big equipment.  Maybe down the road.  Good luck with your hobby...it's nice to have someone who wants to do it with you.

 hello all.. sorry i have not been around to chime in .. but... if you need my info just email.. i am on a temp comp right now.. so email me if you want my to give u some info..

thanks annie

thetimefold@gmail.com 

For all information on LAMPWORKING GO TO Lampworketc. and JOIN THE FORUM.http://www.lampworketc.com/forums/index.php EVERYTHING IS THERE! good luck. BTW- it is totally leagle to get addicted! ;)

Kim, My husband joined me at the Bead and Button show last month....to keep me company he took a 3 day Master Class in the Introduction of glass beadmaking.Well......not only was our instructor, Frank Scott an amazing teacher, but my husband was so hooked, he spent a couple of hours ordering supplies for a studio set-up in our basement from Arrow Springs while I was bead shopping!

Arrow Springs was wonderful to work with regarding the quality of the equiptment, proper usage, and value for the money. I would suggest calling their customer service to see if they can answer some of your questions.

 We are just putting the finishing touches on our "studio" and are going to take turns with the torch for now. It is an amazing art form to learn and I hope you and your husband enjoy it as much as we are.

Have fun.  Evalie Gray