Beginning Lampwork Glass Beads 101-Basic Bead Shapes

🎓 Beginning Lampwork Glass Beads 101 - Basic Bead Shapes with Anna Maria Schoenenberger

🚀 This is where it begins!

Welcome to your first step into the captivating world of lampworking! If you've ever been fascinated by the intricate beauty of glass beads and have dreamt of creating your own, this course is tailored just for you. "Beginning Lampwork Glass Beads 101 - Basic Bead Shapes" will guide you through the fundamental techniques required to craft stunning glass beads using Soda Lime glass. Whether you're using a surface mix torch with oxygen and propane, or working with a MAPP gas-equipped torch, this course has got you covered! 🔧🔥

Course Overview:

• Prerequisites Checklist: Before diving in, ensure you have your studio space set up with your torch securely on a workbench. Verify that your ventilation is adequate, a fire extinguisher is readily accessible, and you're equipped with the appropriate safety eyewear. A basic understanding of lampwork safety will also be assumed.

What to Expect:

• Tools & Safety: We'll start by discussing the essential tools you'll need for this course and recommend a kiln for annealing your glass beads, ensuring they are strong and durable once cooled.

• Syllabus & Agenda: The class will begin with an overview of what we'll cover, including an explanation of torch preparations, mandrel preparation, the types of glass we'll be using, and the importance of different flame types. We'll also ensure you know how to properly turn on your surface mix torch using the memorable POOPO method!

Bead Making Journey:

• Basic Beads: You'll start by crafting simple yet beautiful donut beads and disc beads, which require minimal tools. These are the perfect starting point for beginners.

• M argvering Beads: Next up, we'll explore more complex shapes such as barrels, cones, and bicones using the marver technique. These beads will add variety and interest to your collection.

• Mashed Beads: Finally, you'll learn how to create cubes, rectangle beads, and flat base beads through the mashing process. Each shape will teach you a different aspect of lampworking control and design.

Annealing & Finishing:

• Annealing Lecture: After making your beads, it's crucial to anneal them properly to prevent them from cracking or breaking during handling or stringing. We'll cover this critical step in detail.

• Cleaning Your Beads: Once your glass beads have cooled, you'll learn the best practices for cleaning and preparing them for display or use in jewelry making.

Course Wrap-Up:

• Final Thoughts & Next Steps: The course will conclude with a summary of what we've learned and ideas for how to progress from here. You'll be armed with the knowledge and confidence to continue your lampworking journey beyond this introductory course.

Embark on this creative adventure today and let Anna Maria Schoenenberger guide you through the art of lampwork glass bead making. Sign up now and start transforming your artistic vision into exquisite, wearable art! 🌟✨