Mandrel

A mandrel is a length of stainless steel rod used to make beads. Mandrels can be hollow to allow blowing techniques to be used.

How to make your own mandrels

Mandrels can be made by cutting non-coated 316L stainless steel welding rods to the desired length. The cur ends need to be filed or ground down to remove any burrs or the beads will be difficult or impossible to remove.