Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lampwork?

Lampwork is the process of melting glass & forming it into items of use and decoration. In ancient times a lamp was used to heat & melt the glass. Today a specialized torch is used to create the extreme high temperatures needed (1200-1700 degrees!) to melt the glass.
 

How are lampwork beads made?

To make lampwork beads I use a torch that uses both propane & oxygen as its fuel source. The glass I use comes in rods that are melted & then wound around a pre-treated stainless steel stick, called a mandrel. The size of the mandrel determines the size of the hole in the beads. Then I add different colors of molten glass & use various techniques to shape & move the glass to make the beads. Other inclusions I use are enamel, metal foils and dichroic glass. Once the bead is finished, it is taken out of the flame and placed directly into a preheated kiln. Here it is annealed then cooled at a controlled temperature to insure a strong bond and long life. I use a programmable digital controller to properly control the annealing and cooling process. Once off the mandrel, each bead hole is meticulously cleaned and each bead is carefully inspected.

What is the difference between lampwork and fused glass?

Lampwork requires a torch to melt and mold the glass while fused items are formed in the kiln. To make fused items I start with flat sheets of glass similar to stained glass. I cut & shape pieces of glass and then melt them together using only the kiln as the heat source. Regulating the temperature and length of time in the kiln produces different effects in the glass. The bead or tile is then annealed & slowly cooled. Fusing layers for the final piece may take two or three complete cycles. Molds are used to make small plates and dishes.

Do you have more?

I continually make beads and always carry a small inventory of bead sets and finished items. If you are interested in seeing more lampwork bead sets, focals, fused items, etc., please e-mail me and I will be happy to send pictures of specific items you request.

Do you do custom work?

I do not do quantity work, or wholesale, preferring to create as the glass flows and offer what I make. However, if you see an item or bead set that you like but would like a different color or size, I would be happy to discuss that with you.
 

How much is the sales tax?

One of the great things about having a small business in the “Live Free or Die” state (New Hampshire) is that there is NO sales tax!

What is your payment policy?

My shopping cart check-out is very easy to use and does all the work for you. It automatically directs you to my PayPal account where I accept all major credit cards and PayPal monies. It is safe, reliable, and does not cost you a penny. I also accept Money Orders and personal checks, due within 7 days of purchase. PayPal and Money Orders will ship within 1-2 days of receipt of payment. I reserve the right to hold shipping up to 14 days to clear funds of personal checks. Feel free to contact me with any questions at lfootebead@comcast.net

What is your shipping policy? Return policy?

I will only ship within the United States. A flat rate of $4.00 will be added to orders up to $49 for shipping/handling charges. Orders over $50 are shipped FREE. All will be shipped via Priority mail. If other shipping arrangements are needed, additional amounts would apply. Please e-mail me for details. I am meticulous in wrapping and shipping items in sturdy boxes appropriate to size of items purchased. I do not use padded envelopes. If you are not satisfied with your beads or glass items once you receive them, you may return them within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, less the shipping/handling fee. Total customer satisfaction is a must!
 

Where can I see your glass beads in person?

You can find me at several bead shows in the Northeast area including: Bead Extravaganza, May 5, 2007, Hibernian Hall, Watertown, MA; Bead Fiesta, August 19, 2007, Nashua, NH; Bead Fiesta, September 7, 8 & 9, 2007, Marlborough, MA; Tri-Arts Open Studio, Newmarket, Nov. 2, 3, 4, 2007.

More questions?

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions or if you need more information. Suggestions or comments about any of my artwork or this website are always appreciated. Just click lfootebead@comcast.net.

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