How to use an off centre press?

[Ilona]

I have a large off centre tab press that I would love to know how to use. could anyone offer any tips? I have only tried it once, and its not that easy or was I doing it wrong

I think I will give it one last try, and if I have no luck with it I will sell it.

[sparrow]

I wasn't made for off-centre presses, I have to admit. I don't think you're doing anything wrong, I think it's just a case of developing an eye for the right amount of glass glooping down before you press.......but as I said, I never mastered them either  Good luck!

[Lush!]

Hmm, I never really thought about it, but yep, I can see its tricky.

Sorry Ilona, that was no help at all!   

[Sarah]

Hi Ilona

Mine took a bit of practise and I haven't used it for a while. 

I start with a barrel the width of the mandrel hole then build up the glass on either side in proportion slowly, pressing several times so that I get the amount of glass right.

Its a bit counter intuitive because you don't want it to be balanced in the same way as you would a bead with a central hole.

Hope this helps

Sarah