Category: Soft Glass

  • How Unlimited Oxygen Transformed the Way I Learned to Blow Glass

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    My journey as a lampworker—and eventually the creation of Dylan Chris Glass—began in an unconventional way. I never once cracked open a tank of oxygen. From the very start, I built a DIY oxygen compression and control system based on an early Stage 2 prototype. That decision changed everything about how I learned, created, and…

  • How Much Oxygen Does a Soft Glass Bead Artist Use in a Day?

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    If you’re a lampworker using soft glass to create beautiful beads, pendants, or ornaments, chances are you’ve wondered: How much oxygen am I actually burning through each day? Whether you’re using bottled oxygen, a concentrator, or a liquid oxygen setup, knowing your consumption helps with budgeting, studio planning, and maximizing your time at the torch.…

  • Understanding Studio Ventilation: A Practical Primer for Glassworkers

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    Whether you’re new to torchwork or optimizing an existing studio, proper ventilation isn’t just a comfort issue—it’s critical to your health and safety. In a field where fumes, heat, and combustion byproducts are common, understanding how to design an effective ventilation system is non-negotiable. For years, Mike Aurelius’ Ventilation Primer has been recognized as a…

  • How Much is Your Oxygen Costing You?

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    The cost of oxygen isn’t straightforward—it’s shaped by several variables: To find the best value, begin by understanding how much oxygen you use and in what form. Option 1: Delivered Oxygen (Compressed or Liquid) Compressed Cylinders LOX Dewars Ongoing fees Option 2: On-Site Oxygen Generation (PSA Systems) By generating your own oxygen (e.g., with a…

  • How Much Oxygen Do You Use as a Glass Artist?

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    Whether you’re melting soft glass into delicate beads or crafting heavy borosilicate pipes, knowing your daily oxygen consumption is critical. It affects your bottom line, informs studio setup decisions, and helps you avoid mid-project surprises. This guide breaks down typical oxygen usage for both soft glass and borosilicate artists, so you can plan with confidence.…

  • Oxygen Concentrators: What They Are, How They Work, and How to Use Them Safely

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    What is an Oxygen Concentrator? An oxygen concentrator is a device that extracts oxygen from the surrounding air and delivers it in a concentrated form. Unlike oxygen cylinders, which store compressed gas, concentrators produce oxygen on demand using ambient air. This makes them a cost-effective and convenient solution for users who need a consistent and…