What is flamework or lampwork beads?
Flameworked or lampwork beads are created by melting rods or strips of glass in the flame of a torch. The molten glass is wrapped around a mandrel which is a thin length of round stainless steel. The mandrel is what creates the hole in the bead. By constantly turning the mandrel and holding it in various positions to allow gravity to do its thing a bead is formed. Many different tools can be used in forming the bead with many different results. The process of leaning how much heat to apply before you lose control of the bead and when to add decorative accents is a skill that takes time. This is an art form where practice, practice, practice plays a major role in the quality and beauty of the bead.
