Where's the shiny?

[earth*monkey]

Hey all,

I'm a very very new lampwork, working on a Hot Head with a bulk tank of propylene. So far, I'm very happy with it... except....

This past week I took a lampworking class and worked on a GTT torch (can't remember if it was a bobcat or lynx) and I noticed a distinct difference in the beads I created on the teacher's torch and the ones I create at home.

The ones on the GTT are much more "shiny". They have a gloss that the one I make on my hothead do not have. Its noticable in the flame as well.

Does anyone know why this might be?

I wasn't planning on upgrading my torch setup until next year, but this is frustrating enough that it might have to happen more quickly.

[starlia]

What glass did you use when on the GTT torch compared to your HH? I must admit that the glass on a oxy/propane torch sometimes take on a better shine, but not always. I think it depends on the type of fuel you may use as well.

[Lynn Larson]

I noticed a difference as well between a hot head and a minor burner. I think it is because the oxy/propane torches run hotter. I know the shine is possible on a HH, there are tons of beaders that use it. With a minor, you flash your bead thru the flame to get it shiny, or fire polished. You may have to keep the bead in the flame a bit longer on a hh to do that.

[earth*monkey]

What glass did you use when on the GTT torch compared to your HH? I must admit that the glass on a oxy/propane torch sometimes take on a better shine, but not always. I think it depends on the type of fuel you may use as well.

Oh, good question. I should have mentioned that. I'm using soft glass - primarily Moretti/Effetre but also some Lauscha and Vetrofond.

[earth*monkey]

I noticed a difference as well between a hot head and a minor burner.

*whew* I'm glad that someone else has noticed the phenomena because my DH thinks I'm nuts. :biggrin: