Lampworking is a method of creating beads using rods of raw glass and other materials such as silver or gold.  A torch powered by a mix of propane and oxygen is used to melt the glass to a honey consistency state.  The artist wraps this molten glass around a stainless steel rod called a mandrel.  The bead goes to a kiln for a controlled cool down cycle to ensure a long, strong life for the glass.    After the bead has cooled to room temperature, it is removed from the mandrel.  The stringing hole created depends on the diameter of the mandrel.  The artist inspects and cleans each bead prior to offering it for sale.
Below is a very basic definition of glass beadmaking using a method called lampworking.  If you're interested, the internet offers a wealth of information about the history of lampworking and other beadmaking methods.
The photos above show me demonstrating my catseye method of beadmaking.   Below are the final catseye beads.  I'm happy to answer any questions, just click on the "contact me" link and it will open into a separate window to email me directly!  Thanks, Darlene



Click photos on this page to see larger view!
Welcome to my little hide-a-way!Some of my glass collection. I have many glasses that are no longer being made! It's wonderful until I fall in love with one and can't get it anymore. :(The little window is a protective shield for my eyes. I used to wear glasses, but find this works much better! Plus my face is protected from flying glass - which happens often! Behind the shield is where excess glass goes when I finish with a rod. I recycle through this pile frequently!This view shows some of my presses. I am utilizing a microwave cart with a pull out shelf to use when I'm pressing. It requires a sturdy spot at a perfect height (for me!).My kilns. I have one of them going whenever I am making beads. See the prepared mandrels below? I wind the glass, create the bead and place it directly into the 940 degree kiln so it doesn't cool too quickly!My studio is compact with everything at my fingertips! It's like my private little world, safe, warm and fascinating!
CLICK BELOW FOR A QUICK STUDIO TOUR!!!
If you live in the Las Vegas area and are interested in private lampwork lessons, I am now accepting a limited number of students.
Free Photography Tips

I've recently found myself offering photography tips to several friends and customers.  So, I've decided to write down tips and suggestions that may help you improve the images of your designs.  I am no camera expert, however, I do have years of experience taking photos of beads which has been a constant challenge and a frequent frustration.  If I can help you avoid some of the issues I've dealt with myself, I am happy to do so.

There is no outline or order to these tips.  I just plan to write a bit any evening I can think of information you may be able to use.

  • You will need a photo editor of some sort.  For free, you can download Picasa3 from google.  This program offers enough editing options for most people.  It is easy to learn but like anything, takes time and practice.  Just go in and play with it to familiarize yourself.
  • Most people will tell you to fill your viewfinder with the subject.  For jewelry and bead photos, I find the camera gives a better picture if the subject is cropped out of the center where the focus is the strongest.
  • You don't have to have an expensive camera to take good pictures.  Even cell phones have great cameras these days.
  • Use a tripod and set the timer or use a handheld shutter release.  Almost every camera has a self-timer on it.  By setting the timer, it allows any shake from your handling to settle by the time the camera goes off.  You would not believe how little movement it takes to give you a fuzzy photo.
  • Use a glass cleaner or suitable solution to thoroughly remove any smears or fingerprints that will reflect in your photos.  After they have been cleaned, be sure to use a dusting cloth of some sort to remove dust or fiber particles.  Trust me, the camera will find every one.
  • Remember to make sure your camera is focused on the item.  I often see photos of beads that have a very precise close up of the sellers fingernail, but the bead is blurry.  If you watch through the lens as the camera autofocuses, you will see what it is focusing on.
  • Use a flash if possible.  It does take a bit of practice and retaking of shots to prevent most of the hot spots.  Just changing the angle of the tripod ever so slightly can make a huge difference.
  • If you need more light in an area, try holding a white piece of cardboard to reflect light from a source onto the piece.  Just make sure the cardboard is not in your viewfinder as any bright light source will dramatically change your auto settings.
  • Be prepared to take a lot of photos and be willing to delete a lot of photos.  Do not try to make a bad photo good, don't waste your time.    Be thankful we don't have to work with film!
  • If you are planning to sell your items online, invest in a photo cube kit.  They come with lights, backgrounds, a photo cube, cheap tripod, etc.  Your local camera store should have one for smaller items (14 inch cube), with all this for under $100. 
  • Set your camera for the appropriate lighting.  I have heard not to mix lighting sources, ie, fluorescent/incandescent, but I mix lighting all the time.  The secret is to experiment with your cameras lighting settings.  Take consecutive photos of the same item using the same lighting, changing nothing except the camera lighting setting.  When you download it to your computer, you'll see right away which gives you the best photo and colors.  Once you figure it out, write it down so you do it the same way each time.
  • Remember, if your camera has an lcd display, don't expect the colors you see there to look the same on your computer.  It doesn't matter what the lcd looks like, what counts is how the colors are on your (and your customers) computer screen.