Doming block, does it have to be brass?

[noora]

If you want to use a doming block for shaping beads, does it have to be brass or would a steel doming block do?

[Pat from Canvey]

Steel is fine.

[noora]

Thanks All I've seen mentioned together with bead making is brass blocks, but I just got a steel one

[ruth]

Hi Folks,
How do  you use a doming block in bead making? can't get my mind around it.
Ruth

[sarah t]

you can use it like a bead roller .... rolling beads in the 'dents' to get a shape

[noora]

My plan is to use it for shaping cabochons that I make on a cabochon mandrel, and for applying frit. I haven't tried it yet so I don't know how handy it is for that, but I hope it's better than the spoons I've used so far.

[Lush!]

Best thing I've found for applying frit are jam tart trays - you can 'funnel' the frit back into the pot afterwards 

[awrylemming]

I use my Grans old tablespoons, they're great for frit.  But I think I may have to feed the kids some jam tarts, I've started using a lot more frit and enamel lately, I'm sure they'll be able to exercise it off