This class will be presented to show the student how to sandblast and etch their glass beads to make beautiful designs. The class is intended for the beginning student and does not require a lot of experience or expensive tools and materials. The class will start with an introduction and a presentation slide of the class Syllabus. We will then review the prerequisites including having knowledge of basic lampwork safety requirements, a well ventilated, work area and a pair of didymium safety glasses. It is also recommended that the student has a kiln to properly anneal their finished beads.

The class will start with an Introduction and Syllabus. A short presentation of the prerequisites will then occur.

The first lecture will discuss Sandblasting. The instructor will review equipment requirements including the sandblasting cabinet and sandblasting gun. The instructor will then demonstrate how to make beads for sandblasting using base colored rods of glass and glass enamels. While the beads are annealing in the kiln, the instructor will present some stenciling ideas for the students to try out. Once the stencils are applied to the beads, the instructor will demonstrate how to sandblast the beads in the blasting cabinet. Abonus section is included discussing the pros and cons of the Paasche Air Eraser as an alternative sandblasting gun.

The second lecture is all about Etching. The instructor will demonstrate mechanical etching with a rock tumbler and chemical etching with EtchAll solution. Masking and spot etching will also be discussed along with thorough cleaning techniques after etching is completed.

Ashort congratulatory wrap up will conclude the class.