bead release problems

[CarletonChrissie]

Thanks you've answered my problem brilliantly. I will put an order in asap. Some of my mandrels were dipped weeks ago which explains the problem. Thank you. 

[Shirley]

I've got some of the blue and only use it on the tip of a mandrel if I'm pulling a twisty. I use the mandrel and pliers method and you can pretty much guarantee the release won't break when you pull!

[CarletonChrissie]

Order some foster fire from sooz at ebay shop so now hopefully my problems will be over.

[Lush!]

Smooth and Tough is the best I've tried so far, pricey but the beads practically jump off the mandrels!

I've got Foster Fire at the moment and I'm still struggling to get the right consistency. Might go back to S&T next time.

[Shirley]

I was surprised at how much water I've had to add. If I get it at about pancake mix consistency it works really well.

[Soo]

I've found as time goes on, my beads have been getting easier and easier to release. I used to have to use the pliers on at least half of a days batch, now it's only one of two - if that.

I have been putting this down to undoubtedly better technique as I become more proficient, I decided I must have been overheating less, taking less time to round out beads and the less time in the flame, the easier it is to release the beads and then I go and find that coating far in advance is a factor too!

I used to always dip a few days in advance and now I have fewer mandrels (due to some getting bent and permanently attached beads), I am now dipping the same day and flame drying the early ones (using Fusion), and after reading this thread realise that's probably why. This board really is a mine of information!

When mine get really difficult to release, I used to use a 50% solution of toilet duck in water soaked overnight, but I haven't had to resort to it in a while. Now when I get a tough one, I soak it in a half full sink of warmish water for half an hour, dry it all off and then dribble cold water either side of the bead for 5 seconds (no more) a side. The theory is that the bead is warmish and expanded and the cold water right next to the bead cools the mandrel which makes it shrink ever so slightly - it works for me - I haven't had to use the toilet duck solution for quite a while.

[Amber]

Fosterfire  !

Otherwise the mole grips and rubber glove work a treat - but if it's really stuck, spray with WD40 and leave for a while.