Most lampworking supply stores online have an assortment. I like the "Mountain Glass Arts" web site for a lot of tools and materials.
And yes they are absolutely needed. Without them it is hard to see what is going on when your work is in the flame.
If you work without them for any length of time headaches and sore burning eyes are common. Also the IR, infra red, coming from the flame will burn your retina
which does not heel.
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