Dirty streaks in 006 clear?

[noora]

I get dirty/sooty streaks in my 006 clear. I thought that was something you got on single fuel torches (soot from the torch), but I'm on a Minor so obviously I was wrong. Did I heat it too much or should I give the rods a wash? I wipe them off on my sleeve before I start, but maybe that's not enough?

[awrylemming]

I wash and dry mine - and nip off the cut end in the flame before I start a session.

ETA Oh, and check your propane isn't too high, or you will get those streaks anyway.

[Redhotsal]

yes, sadly, you can still burn 006 on a Minor. Most of the clear glass is more prone to burning than other colours, unless you go for the really top end stuff like Lauscha, or Precision, but these cost more than 006. Anyway - as long as you use 006 properly you can avoid burns.

When you heat your glass if you notice bright orange streaks they'll end up as burn marks. You can pull these streaks off with tweezers, but the best way is to avoid them in the first place.

You need to keep your clear glass moving - never leave it stationary in the flame  and work it higher up. Once you get the hang of it those nasty streaks will be a thing of the past

[noora]

Thanks! Heating too much seems to be my main problem right now, then    And I'll nip of the end of the rod next time. Do you only need to nip off the cut end, not a melted end on a rod you've used before?

[awrylemming]

Just the end of a new rod, where it's cut there are scratches etc, which translate into your bead.  One you've already melted is fine.