Lampwork beads are individually made using torches to melt glass around a mandrel or metal rod. Different types of glass and colours are used. Murano (Italian) glass artists from the early Renaissance period were best known for this type of glass bead making. This art form is thriving today and no wonder as these beads, in the hands of superb craftmen and women, are masterpieces.

As these are individually crafted beads, they are usually on the large side. Larry Brickman's demonstration at the Andrighetti Glassworks in Vancouver, B.C shows a master at work creating a warring state bead. The bumpy beads are reminiscent of ancient beads found in China dating back to the 3rd to 5th Century BC during a chaotic time known as the Warring States period.

The Glass and Splinters Studio also has a picture based tutorial on how beautiful beads like these are made. Glass artists work with torches so safety is a big consideration. Notice that they wear special eyewear to protect their eyes from the glare of the flame.


References


Creative Commons Picture by Teh JPatch (lampworker)

Creative Commons Picture by Robin Green Eye (floral bead)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/igreeneye/206571558/