Wispy Bead Design

Orange Wispy Bead at Alaska Boro BeadsAlaska Boro is working with a new technique for that wispy bead look. It is similar to high altitude thin clouds. This is a design that has almost unlimited possibilities.

The process takes longer, but also produces some interesting results. The beads look great in normal room light and just ‘out of this world’ in sunlight. The key is to lighten up both transparent and opaque colors. The right amount of clear mixed with color is the answer. How much? Well that all depends on the desired outcome.

Some colors, especially striking types require more rod. While opaque, may take a lot less. The aim point is to thin to a consistency that produces that random wispy look.

Additional colors can be added for effect. Blue Wipsy Bead at Alaska Boro BeadsA little white, adds highlights. Some black for depth. Two striking colors can be used in different combinations for interesting effects. Just flame strike to the desired colors.

Adding amber and a blue striking rod will be blue prior to flame striking. After striking, the blue turns to a nice pale green. How much green, will depend on the amount of and the number of times the bead is flame struck.

Mixing colors expands the palette. The same colored rod can produce many shades of color and in combination with other colors some most spectacular beads.

June 22, 2010