Frit-Happens !

Lampwork => Lampworking Tip n Tricks => Topic started by: Blue Kiln Beads on April 10, 2010, 10:40:02 PM

Title: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: Blue Kiln Beads on April 10, 2010, 10:40:02 PM
I have been asked for 20 big hole beads.  They don't have to be cored.  I have been looking for some 5mm mandrels, Manda at Mangobeads have some lovely looking ones for £5.60 each or Off-Mandrel have 5 for £11.75 obviously very different in design.

Can anyone help me decide which to go for please?  Do I splash the cash and get 5 of Manda's or do I penny pinch and go for the others?  I am hoping that this is the start of regular orders from my customer so I am thinking it might be worth investing in some really good ones....

What do you think?

Yvette :-\
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: helbels on April 10, 2010, 10:45:11 PM
If you think it's going to become a regular thing, I'd go for Manda's.  I have only made a handful of big hole beads but the solid 5mm mandrels get really heavy and tend to hurt my hands after a bit.  I've not used Manda's personally yet but I can see in theory how they would be MUCH easier to use.
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: Lush! on April 10, 2010, 10:48:15 PM
I love Manda's mandrels (ooh er, matron!)

They're so much easier to use than the regular ones, and beautifully made.
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: hollergrafik on April 10, 2010, 10:52:02 PM
I have tried and failed to balance beads on fat mandrels, I got Mandas ones and now my beads are the same time and time again. I can definately recommend them.
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: Blue Kiln Beads on April 10, 2010, 10:57:00 PM
Right then decision made, Manda's it is!  Thanks for your help.
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: Krysia@No98 on April 11, 2010, 09:07:34 AM


I have the big ones and they don't half hold the heat
Title: Re: Which ones to buy...?
Post by: Jolene on April 11, 2010, 10:23:00 AM
Quote from: Krysia on April 11, 2010, 09:07:34 AM


I have the big ones and they don't half hold the heat

Yes, I second that!