One of the Deadly Sins

Maybe the title is a bit overdramatic. This particular sin isn't deadly. Unless there's some kind of a freak accident thing. Technically it isn't a sin either. Except maybe to glassworkers. And the jewelry maker who commits this particular sin.

I know you're probably yelling at your computer (because maybe I'll hear it?) to just spill it already. What IS this "deadly sin"?

The answer: using a flame on or near your lampwork glass beads. In particular, I was thinking about designers wanting to heat patina lampwork glass headpins. However, this rule applies to any glass on any metal. Your beautiful glass headpin or bead WILL crack. Guaranteed.

This photo is an example of a thermal crack from allowing the bead to cool too much while working on it, then putting it back into the flame:

I really love all our readers. But I'm not sacrificing one of my headpins to show you what happens if you take a perfectly annealed headpin/bead and try to heat patina the wire it's seated on. You will have to take my word for it. Or I suppose you could try to prove to yourself that it's true. I just don't recommend it. 

Perfectly annealed and un-cracked glass headpins.

It's super simple to avoid. But oh so tempting to try-especially when you want that beautiful flame patina on copper or bronze. Don't give into the temptation or you will cry. And probably swear. A lot.

-Jen Cameron
Glass Addictions