Flame Resistant Floor Mats???

[eklecticmoose]

I prefer to work my glass standing up, but it gets hard on the feet and back after awhile. When we went to the glass show a few weeks ago, I noticed the guys blowing glass had nice thick floor mats near their "glory holes". Are these flame resistant and where can I find them?

Thanks!

~ Tru

[glass_beads]

I don't know if they are flame resistant but I have floor mats for shows too. I never used them for bead shows, but I used them at the big-wig shows where you need to supply your own floor covering etc. They are superb! It's been years since I bought them but do a search for "trade show floor mats" and you will find some suppliers to check out.

Mine are similar to this and I am willing to bet that they are NOT flame resistant but I don't know for sure. http://www.softtiles.com/

If you do find a source for flame resistant mats, please report back!

[Emiko]

How about using fire retardant spray for fabric?

[Palestrina]

Go to a restaurant supply store. Find the thick black rubber mats for restaurant kitchens. They have lots of holes & stuff so you'll know them when you see them. Ask. This is what you should be standing on all day if you want to be able to use your back & FEET for the rest of your life. Standing will cause lower back problems, if you're leaning over it will cause upper back problems, it will also cause calcium deposits in your feet, cramping... the list goes on. Get something very good.
Try googling Restaurant Depot.
Hope this helps!

[eklecticmoose]

Thanks for the replies.

I know about the restaurant mats, but I don't think they will work if I drop any molten glass as I think they are made of petro products like recycled tire rubber. Not sure I'd want that underfoot if it catches fire :!:

The mats at the show were about 1.5 inches thick (maybe more, maybe less, I was a good distance away) and solid with beveled edges. I think I'll give the hosting studio a call to see if they can tell me more. I'll post back what I find out for anyone else interested.

~ Tru

[glass_beads]

Thanks Tru -- keep us posted!