Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions:
Q. Do you demonstrate your working process?
I work from home in a small workshop therefore I do not currently offer the chance to watch me work. However, you can watch videos of me making some basic beads in my online tutorial section.
Q. Do you offer classes?
At the moment I do not have enough equipment to offer classes but there are other lampworkers around the country that do.
Q. Where do you get your glass?
I purchase most of my glass from a company in Yorkshire, please visit my glass page for further details of the glass I use.
Q. How long does it take to make a bead?
As I start with cold glass, a lot of the making time is centred around how long it takes for the glass to melt. A simple plain round bead can be made quite quickly however, my more complicated designs can take upwards of 40-50 minutes. I then have to wait overnight for the glass to cool, remove it from the mandrel, clean off the bead release, quality control each piece then mount it in the setting.
Q. How long does it take to learn lampworking?
The basics of lampworking can be learnt very quickly, but it then takes a lifetime to master! I am still learning new tips and tricks all the time and only experience can teach you about heat and gravity control, colour combinations and how to manipulate the glass correctly. Remember, when you are buying a handmade piece of art glass, you are not just paying for the time it took to make it that day - you are also getting the hours of practise, the years of experience and the wealth of knowledge it took to create that single piece.
Q. How do you add decoration to a bead?
I buy glass in many different colours and by layering these up on the hot bead I create pattern and design. Once the bead is cool I cannot go back and add any further decoration (except etching the surface) - it is all done with molten glass!
Q. Can you add ashes to glass?
I can and do add ashes into glass when requested. I do this by layering the ashes deep within the glass for a timeless memorial to a departed family member, friend or pet. Please contact me for more information.
Q. I saw a piece at a recent event but cannot find it to buy online, is it still available?
I do not list all my stock online therefore the piece you were looking at is possibly still in stock. Please email me ASAP with as many details as possible then I can send you photos of all the pieces I currently have that meet your requirements. Alternatively, I can make something to order for you. This can be collected at another event or posted to you for a small fee.
Q. Can you make a custom animal bead?
I can colour match some pets such as cats, dogs, mice and penguins and am happy to discuss your requirements, but please be aware that I do not make photo-realistic animals, please view my previous work before making an enquiry.
Q. Why are all your pieces 'one-off'?
I do not use moulds to create my beads therefore each one comes out slightly different. Any bead made using Double Helix glass is impossible to replicate as the glass reacts to the working conditions in the flame to create a unique piece each time.
Q. I've seen a bead on the internet, can you replicate it?
Each lampworker has a unique style and skillset. If you have found a bead you like it is best to contact the original maker (or someone who makes similar beads) to see if they can help.
Q. I've found a bead on your website / social media I like, can you replicate it for me?
As stated above, each piece I make is unique - due to my style of working - however, I may still have it in stock or I may be able to create something similar for you, please contact me for details.
Q. Do you ever work with Gold settings?
Due to the cost implications I do not currently work with gold but I am happy to supply a bead / beads for you to have set by a professional jeweller.
Q. Will your beads break if dropped?
Contrary to popular belief, glass beads can be quite robust. Due to the round, solid nature of the beads they do not tend to break unless heavily dropped onto a hard / rough surface and even then they are more likely to scuff or scratch rather than break or smash. Any small scuffs / chips can usually be gently buffed out using readily available small glass repair kits which include sanding materials and glass polishing compounds.
I kiln anneal all my beads immediately after they are removed from the flame. This means that the glass is allowed to rest at a heat just below melting point, allowing it to settle into a stress free state before it is slowly cooled to room temperature. This process means the beads are a lot less likely to crack or break.
I kiln anneal all my beads immediately after they are removed from the flame. This means that the glass is allowed to rest at a heat just below melting point, allowing it to settle into a stress free state before it is slowly cooled to room temperature. This process means the beads are a lot less likely to crack or break.
Shipping Questions:
Q. Can I collect my order from one of your events?
Of course, please contact me with the details of the piece you wish to purchase and I can then bring it to an event for you to pay and collect on the day. I can accept cash or card at most events.
Q. Do you ship internationally?
Not at the moment due to shipping issues out of my control.
Q. How much do you charge for shipping?
Shipping charges will be added at checkout and depend on the destination, weight and service chosen.
Q. Which postal service do you use?
Royal Mail.
Q. When will my purchase arrive?
I will post your item within 5 working days of your order however, delivery time after this point is out of my control and depends upon the delivery company. Please allow up to 3 weeks before contacting me regarding a 'lost' item. If you require an item quickly please contact me.
Q. Can I track my parcel?
If you would like tracking, please select Recorded Delivery at checkout and I will send a tracking number once your parcel is dispatched.
Q. Can I pay by cheque?
If you wish to pay by cheque please email me with the details of the piece you wish to purchase. Once I have received the cheque, your purchase will be processed as normal.
Q. Can I return my order?
In the event that you are not completely satisfied with your purchase please contact me within 14 days to confirm if you wish to receive a replacement or refund. Any return postage is payable by you and it is recommended that you acquire proof of postage.
Not found the information you require?
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