Resources
Tools, materials, and links for getting started with lampworking
Getting Started with Lampworking
Everything I have used, researched, or found useful since I began this journey. This page is updated as I continue to learn.
Essential Equipment
| Item | What I use | Notes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bench torch | Nortel Mega Minor Burner | Runs on propane + oxygen. More efficient in oxygen consumption. I got it at a very good price. | €137 (second-hand) |
| Oxygen concentrator | Philips Respironics EverFlo | I chose a concentrator over oxygen tanks. I got it at a very good price, with only 50 hours of use. | €260 (second-hand) |
| Propane tank | Standard propane tank | Second-hand for €10 + €44 refill | €54 (second-hand) |
| Hoses | ? | ? | ?€ |
| Flashback arrestor | ? | ? | ?€ |
| Propane regulator | ? | ? | ?€ |
| Glasses | ? | I bought them a long time ago and can no longer find the reference. | €30–€80 |
| Workbench | Wooden workbench (180cm x 80cm) | I got two identical tables for the same price, second-hand. Very heavy and stable. | €20 (second-hand) |
| Glass | ? | ? | ?€ |
| Tools | Tungsten pick, presses, tweezers | The basics. You will add more as you learn. | €50–€200 |
Learning Resources
Books
- Passing the Flame by Corina Tettinger — the bible of glass beadmaking
Videos
- Chanco Cristal - Artesanías del Maule
- Oxygen Concentrator Setup with Torches vs Tanks
- Building an Oxikit DIY Oxygen Concentrator (Future project)
- Review of Nortel’s Mega Minor Torch
- Nortel’s Minor Torch - Flame Settings
Channels
- Reverse Glass
- Made in Workroom
- The Fushin Shop
- Kristina Logan
- Fire Petal Studio
- Xfade
- IrenesKralen
- Janine Providence
- Double Helix Glassworks
Safety Notes
⚠️ Ventilation is critical. Glass fumes contain silica and metal oxides. Work in a well-ventilated space or with a proper fume extraction system.
⚠️ Didymium glasses are mandatory. The sodium flare from hot glass will damage your eyes over time without proper filtration.
⚠️ Fire safety. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach. Clear your workspace of flammable materials. Molten glass drips.