I craft beads from Italian, German and American soda-lime glass, using
a propane-oxygen mix torch and tungsten precision tools. I begin the bead by
melting, patterning and layering colours for maximum depth and sparkle.
Within the basic design, I add designed and placed decoration, precious
metal foils and wire or specialty glass. Some of these materials must
then be treated with a specially adjusted propane flame to bring out
the most vibrant colours and effects. I create sculptural beads by adding and
manipulating glass on a base layer; some components must be made separately
directly from a rod of glass and set aside to be attached later. Throughout the
process, the entire construction must be kept warm to avoid thermal shock.
After completion, each bead is placed in a kiln to soak in 960 degree Fahrenheit
heat, then very slowly cooled to room temperature. This anneals the bead,
melting out stresses and damage caused by the manipulation of the glass
during production and strengthening it against force and wear. The piece is thoroughly
cleaned with a diamond drill. It is then ready to be sold or used in a piece of jewellery.
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