Oxy-Con/Minor Torch Package from Tuffnells..... Good Deal??

[Fruddy]

Hi folks,

I am new to lampworking - have had one lesson so far with Sabine, but really eager to get started/set up on my own.  I am in the process of converting our brick out-house into a studio and have been looking at options in so far as what initial equipment to buy.  I have decided to go straight onto a Minor torch and not bother with a hot-head.  Tuffnells have a package in which you can buy a new Minor torch, reconditioned Oxy-Con, hoses, regulator etc., and a pair of Diddys for £500.00.

I am really tempted to go with this, as it seems a good price, but would be grateful for some steer from you lovely lot - who are obviously far more experienced than me!

Thanks very much in advance for advice.

Rachel

[helbels]

Tuffnell's are a great place to get your kit, and where many of us on here have purchased from.  You can also get kits for a similar price from offmandrel.com too.

You can get the torch and bits a bit cheaper if you buy them all separately, but its a right faff, and you won't get an oxy con cheaper unless you get REALLY luck on Ebay.

Tuffnells are great at supporting their customers too, so if you get stuck, they will help you over the phone.  You can also get help with your oxycon if it has the misfortune to break down!

[Shirley]

Absolutely the way to go. You'll get good backup too, should you have any questions. Just remember that you'll be spending much more than that though, once you start looking at glass, frit, tools and all the other stuff that you just have to have!

[Fruddy]

Absolutely the way to go. You'll get good backup too, should you have any questions. Just remember that you'll be spending much more than that though, once you start looking at glass, frit, tools and all the other stuff that you just have to have!

Thanks for the advice - think I will go with Tuffnells then!

Despite my desperation to get started NOW! - I am doing the sensible thing and taking two or three months to make sure that I have everything that I will conceivably need before diving in!  I have about a thousand pounds cash now - which hopefully should convert my shed, including a small extractor fan, bench, stool, lighting etc., and the package from Tuffnells and then I shall save for a couple of months and buy everything else.  I absolutely cannot wait to start, but I want to make sure that I get everything that I need first.  The only thing that I won't be able to get soon is a kiln - but Sabine has very kindly offered to anneal my beads for me at first, so that is the last item on my list!

[Sulis (Hazel)]

Great decision Fruddy    Tuffnells give great support and advice. And I'm not at all surprised you're eager to get started if Sabine gave you your first lesson - she's fab. Very inspiring, knowledgable lady and so down to earth and friendly too.

You're at the start of a very exciting adventure    Have fun!

x

[Pat from Canvey]

- I am doing the sensible thing and taking two or three months to make sure that I have everything that I will conceivably need before diving in! 

Trouble is, you'll find you NEED more once you get started. A new press, a new colour, a different tutorial.......the list goes on and on.

[sparrow]

At least you'll get to test-drive stuff in my studio.......I think I've got enough tools, mandrels and presses to keep you occupied for a while