Glass Beads 105.1-Enamels

This class will be presented to show the student how to powder glass enamels to make a beautiful glass beads.  The class is intended for the beginning student and does not require a lot of experience or expensive tools and materials.  The class will start with an introduction and a presentation slide of the class Syllabus.  We will then review the prerequisites including having knowledge of basic lampwork safety requirements, a well ventilated work area and a pair of didymium safety glasses.  It is also recommended that the students has a kiln to properly anneal their finished beads.

The class will start with an Introduction and Syllabus.  A short presentation of the prerequisites will then occur.

The first lecture will discuss safety practices when working with enamels.  The instructor will have a short presentation on ventilation and will discuss the use of N95 face masks or the use of a respirator to protect the student from enamel dust.  The instructor will also show the students how to place wet paper towels on their workbenches for additional dust control.  The instructor will then have a short discussion about the Thompson Enamels to be used in the class.

The class will then move into applying the enamels to a glass bead using various techniques.  We'll review different types of texture and coating the students can achieve by varying the amount of heat they apply to their bead.  The instructor will show the students how to make and apply enamel stringers.  There will also be lectures on using stencils to make enamel patterns and texture plates for more complex designs.

A short congratulatory wrap up will conclude the class.