I went out to the studio today and my kiln won't turn on. I called tech support and they haven't called back yet. I have a heater going out there - perhaps that will help. :(

...I've been working very hard at getting this studio up and running. I've been running into some problems.

I returned the small annealer and went for it - bought a Chili-Pepper kiln. I tested it out today and it seems to work fine. But then I tried to light my torch and my oxygen valve on the torch seems to not be working. I can turn it and turn it until it comes off and still no oxygen. I tested the tank and the line and both seem to be fine. I'm unable to talk to anyone in support until Monday.

It's going to be a long weekend...

A date has been set! May 9th actual construction will begin on the lampworking studio. The ventilation system is a one piece unit and will require one hole to be cut in the wall. The torch mount will be super easy and removable in case I want to travel with my torch. The biggest concern will be the gas hookup. I am using a propane/oxygen mixture. The propane will be stored outside and a pipe needs to be run through the wall in order to pass the hose through. The oxygen will be housed inside.

A very large glass order has been placed and is on the way, along with a fire extinguisher and a work lamp. I will shop this week for odds and ends like a power strip, welding gloves, etc.

At this point things are coming together faster than I dared hope. I'm going to have to start getting up earlier so I can work while the day is still cool.

I can't thank enough my father and mother, and my husband for everything from building the ventilation and glass storage to helping fund the project: my mother-in-law for the idea of taking a class at the Toledo Museum of Art and buying that class for a birthday gift, and my teacher (and friend) Robin Schultes for helping me build a solid foundation in the craft and encouraging me to find my creativity again.

I'm excited! Can't you tell?

I received word last night that my glass storage unit for the studio is completed and it looks wonderful! Just need a few odds and ends (like a fire extinguisher, a lamp, etc.) and I will have everything needed to put the studio together. We are trying to coordinate schedules to make an appointment for all the installations. This is all very exciting for me. I haven't been behind the torch in a few weeks and I'm anxious to be able to create again!

I got word yesterday that the ventilation system is finished and ready to be installed in my Lampwork Studio. That means we are one giant step closer to being able to offer unique one of a kind glass lampworked beads for purchase.. It also means I can offer new jewelry designs. I am excited beyond words.

I'll let you all know when the workshop is completed.