Big hole beads: How big is big, and where do I get the mandrels?

[evilglass]

I'm looking around, and I'm all confused. I know I need 5/8 hole beads for my ren faire bodice and skirt, but I don't know the best places to get the mandrels, nor do I know what most folks call big hole beads-like how big of a hole does it take to make a big hole bead?

Oh, and what's a slider, LOL?

[CO_Phantom]

I think most people consider 1/4" and bigger a big hole bead.

You can find mandrels several places. I've gotten them from thirteenmoons (she's here on LE). Arrow springs might carry some. You could just cut some stainless steel tubing to make your own. Check the garage sale--sometimes you'll find people selling big hole mandrels there. Inspiration toolworks has some nifty mandrels (mostly different shaped big holes--like hearts, stars, hexagons, squares...).

I'd need a context before I could give you a definition for slider. ;)

-Amy

[evilglass]

LOL. thanks ;)

I got an email asking if I made sliders and BHBs, thus the questions. I do have some good sized stainless tubing, though. Hubby thought it would be great for learning to blow glass. I kept telling him *small* diameter, not 1 inch!!!

So I went and bought some brake line stuff myself. Bet that'll work for smaller BHB!