I've been making loads of beads but have some bead release problems. We haven't been able to remove the beads from the mandrels. I'm tired of losing beads. I triple dipped the mandrels. If that doesn't work I'm going to try a different brand.
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Got the torch fixed and have the kiln loaded with work from this afternoon. I'm so glad everything is up and running now.
While surfing the internet looking for forum entries regarding the Cricket GTT Torch (like the one I have which isn't working at this moment), I came across another lampworker's blog. I am posting a link to it here because her anecdote about what we do is humorous and well spoken. Enjoy!
http://deannachase.wordpress.com/2008/07/26/lampworking-still-a-great-unknown-to-the-masses/ ...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... Do you ever feel like there's just too much going on in your life and you need a break? I want to bury my head in the sand for just one whole day - no interruptions.
I think I'd better leave it at that today! 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? |
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