Cabachon making - release popping off

[Gail Kops]

I should probably know the answer to this, but quite frustrating in the moment.

I am using Foster Fire Smooth and Tuff.
When I introduce the cabachon mandrel (1") to the flame to get it hot and ready for glass, the bead release starts to peel off of the surface.

Any ideas on what I seem to be doing wrong. Have no problem with my regular mandrels.

Thanks, friends!

[2xMI]

did you get the back/underside of the cabochon mandrel really hot, as well as the surface? I haven't used a cab mandrel yet, but my understanding is it's important to keep the back hot.

[JavaGirlBT]

I would try scuffing up the surfaces where there is flaking with a scouring pad to give it a little grip.

[Gail Kops]

Thanks, Ellen.
Will give that a try.

I usually heat both sides until glowing and apply from the outside edge to the inside. It is only happening with my 1 1/4" mandrel. I also have a 1" and seem to have no problem with it.

Wondering if it has to do with the mandrel flat thickness. But warming them both up the same way.

Hmmmmm....

[peggy593]

In our cab class at the Gathering this year, Amanda Muddimer had us using the grey dip n go sludge from Arrow Springs. It's watered down quite thin and we dipped the mandrels in, twirled them in the release and then twirled them as they were coming out of the release. I haven't had any problem with the release flaking off.

[Gail Kops]

Another good suggestion - perhaps my "Smooth and Tuff" is too thick. Will give that a try.

Thanks a lot!