Each lampwork bead begins with a rod of imported Morretti glass from Italy. I use an oxygen/propane torch to heat the glass rods to a molten state. The glass is then wound on to a stainless steel rod that has been coated with a clay like bead release. Different colors of glass are used to create patterns as well as other processes that cause unique changes in the surface of the bead. When the bead has been completed, it is placed in a 960 degree kiln for up to eight hours. This annealing process stabilizes the glass adding strength and durability.
