New to lampworking- interested in marbles

Keithbot · #1 2016-05-27, 3:58pm

Hello new found community! I am interested in lampworking and would like to find the best kit or list of things I need. I'm mainly interested in making these beautiful vortex and galaxy marbles I've been seeing, but I am also interested in making other small decorative things.
It seems like there are an overwhelming amount of tools and things I should buy before I get started. I've looked around at some starter kits but I don't want to buy it and not end up being able to do what I want and just constantly have to get new things.

I've watched some videos of the process

Like what kiln should I buy?
Do I need a hand torch?
What are the semicircular molds used that help shape the marble?

I'm aware that this is much harder than it looks but it's something I'm genuinely interested in getting good at. The things that you guys produce are beautifully amazing

I'm hoping a few pros would be able to make this less painful for me

Speedslug · #2 2016-05-27, 4:33pm

Buy this ebook.

http://www.frittsartglass.com/book.html

$20.

Lots of really good information and techniques.

Excellent starter book.

Best bang for your buck I can imagine.

Edited To Add: Welcome to the addiction.

Croft Eeusk · #3 2016-05-27, 4:47pm

I'm definitely not a marble pro, but have made simple ones.

Phill has already suggested the best book - only in e-book, new edition just out w/new material BTW.

There are marble molds to help formation. Most glass shops will give beginner lessons; the first steps aren't difficult - my mum did good marbles in just one class. You don't need a kiln when you start out, you can use annealing bubbles & a crock pot, but you will once you get to more elaborate pieces or they won't be structurally sound.

And you'll soon discover if the bug has really gotten you, because this isn't an inexpensive addiction.

dj

Sue in Maine · #4 2016-05-27, 5:53pm

Click on this link to take yourself to what I think is a very good thread- but kleep in mind that "I" started the thread! lo

http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...m*+marble+mold

Cooling a marble in a crockpot with annealing bubbles is NOT annealing your marble/s and I disagree that you do not need to anneal them. You do.

As for the Drew Fritt Marble book, I must be the only one in the country who didn't like it. In fact, I wound up selling it to someone here on LE. Others do so you be your own judge.

So much to know on making marbles... so much to share.... you're doing research and that's great. Where are you located? There may be someone near you who would be willing to help you with the basics.

Welcome to LE, btw!

Sue

Sue in Maine · #5 2016-05-27, 6:17pm

OMG! I finally figured out how to copy/paste on this computer! I have created a monster... but a monster with a good thread:

http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...t=maine+marble

Purpose of the link??? To let you know that if you get the chance, TAKE A CLASS! I swear you won't believe how great it is to see someone in action. John Kobuki is an amazing teacher.

Sue

Croft Eeusk · #6 2016-05-28, 8:15am

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sue in Maine

Cooling a marble in a crockpot with annealing bubbles is NOT annealing your marble/s and I disagree that you do not need to anneal them. You do.

Sue

I didn't say a crock pot equaled annealing -- I said in the beginning, when most folks can't really make a really fancy marbles, one really isn't needed. After one spends some time practicing the steps & has marbles worth the expense of a kiln is another story. Yes, eventually one must get a kiln or, as stated before, 'you will once you get to more elaborate pieces or they won't be structurally sound.

dj