What do we at Stained Glass Express offer for you?

Here at Stained Glass Express we know that it can be prohibitively expensive to set up a space for lampworking. For those that we have certified, we offer access to our fully equipped lampworking classroom for $12 an hour. That covers the fuel, oxygen, torch, access to an annealing kiln, and some basic tools. If you are not certified, do not worry! We offer many different classes on the torch, be it a Fun Day Out, or Flameworking 101 or 201. Upon graduating Flameworking 101, you can be certified to work in the flame room on your own. Should you already be adept on a torch, just send Liz B an email at glassacademy@stainedglassexpress.com and we can fast track your certification!

Our flame room is equipped with 7 different torches: 5 Bethlehem Alpha torches, and 2 Bethlehem Bravo torches. 2 different annealing kilns and powered from a direct connection to an oxygen generator and hard lined propane.

Needed Equipment for Lampworking

While it can be daunting to think and expensive to set up and layout a room for a torch, but it can be done relatively inexpensively. If you're just looking to manipulate stringers for a fused glass project, then all you need is your stringer and a tealight candle. If you do this, please just be aware that the rapid discoloration to your glass is not the glass burning, but just soot. 

If you're starting with working with 104 COE glass (soft glass), then you can get away with using something called a Hot Head Torch and MAPP Gas. A Hot Head Torch is similar to something like a camping torch, except that it has been designed to accept the mixture of gases in MAPP Gas (or MAP Pro). MAPP gas is a fuel mixture that comes in a yellow can and can be purchased at the majority of hardware stores. While you would not have needed to anneal the stringers on the candle, it is recommended to anneal anything bigger than that. When looking to anneal on a budget, the best bet is to not purchase a kiln. Instead utilize a crockpot and vermiculite. This is not going to complete anneal your work; however, it will prevent most of the thermal shock causing beads to randomly shatter. Depending on the size of your crockpot, do a little bit of research into heating times.

The final level of your lampworking studio that we can help provide for will get you on par with the space that we offer. A torch, an annealing kiln, and access to both oxygen and a fuel, we utilize propane here. Depending on if you are working on only soft glass, borosilicate, or both, will change the recommended torch for yourself. If you are a bead maker who only uses 104 COE glass or other soft glass, or make small borosilicate sculptures, then you will be all set with the Bethlehem Alpha torch. The Alpha is a single stage torch, that can throw enough flame to be able to work a 19mm 33 COE rod. If you're looking to primarily work with borosilicate, then the Bethlehem Bravo would be your best bet. This is a 2 stage torch, designed for heavier use. It can work a 33 COE rod up to 30mm. 

Attached to the torch, you will need a supply of fuel, an oxygen supply, and possibly regulators for both. A 20lb propane tank, like the one hooked up to your grill, is probably the easiest way to handle a fuel supply. Our classroom is plumbed directly to the buildings propane, which is always an option as well! The propane coming from tank to torch will have to be regulated down to 2-5 psi. If you are using an oxygen generator, then you should not 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you do glassblowing here?
No. This facility is set up for lampworking only. We do not have furnaces or equipment for traditional glassblowing, which involves gathering molten glass from a large kiln on a blowpipe.

What types of items can be made with lampworking?
Common items include beads, jewelry components, small sculptures, ornaments, and functional pieces like marbles or simple vessels formed from tubing.

What kind of glass is used in lampworking?
Lampworking typically uses either soft glass (often COE 104) or borosilicate glass (COE 33, commonly used in scientific and durable work). The choice affects working temperature, durability, and style.

What is the difference between soft glass and borosilicate?
Soft glass melts at a lower temperature and is often used for colorful beads and decorative work. Borosilicate requires higher heat but is more resistant to thermal shock, making it ideal for more durable or functional pieces.

Is the glass melted in a kiln?
No. The glass is melted directly in the flame of a torch. A kiln is used afterward for annealing, which slowly cools the glass to relieve internal stress.

What is annealing and why is it important?
Annealing is the controlled cooling of finished pieces in a kiln. Without proper annealing, lampworked glass can crack either immediately or over time due to internal stress.

How long does it take to make a piece?
Most lampworked items are made in a single session at the torch, often within minutes to an hour. However, the annealing cycle in the kiln can take several hours depending on the size and thickness.

Is lampworked glass durable?
Yes, when properly annealed, lampworked glass is durable for everyday use in items like jewelry. However, it is still glass and should be handled with reasonable care.

Why are mandrels used?
Mandrels are metal rods used to shape and form beads. The glass is wound around the mandrel, which is coated with a release so the bead can be removed after cooling.

Can pieces be repaired or reworked?
Sometimes. Small adjustments or additions can be made by reheating the glass, but not all pieces can be successfully repaired without risking further stress or breakage.