Hey Folks

[phishinphree]

Hey all. Many thanks for the wealth of knowledge on this forum. Although I haven't touched a torch yet, I feel I've learn a ton just poking around the site.
I plan on having funds for some equipment after I graduate this semester but am hoping there may be someone around the area who's looking for some free labor in exchange for a little torch time or lessons. I'm in central maine and know not a single person who blows glass. Maybe there are some fellow mainers on here? In any event, I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who's contributed to the forum. There's a crazy amount of info here and it's been awesome sifting through it.

Peace.

[Julian]

GreWelcome to the MP! Definitely a ton of good info here, glad you're enjoying sifting through it.

Not sure about anyone in Maine, but I believe a few members are in VT or NH. Best of luck getting set up!

[IndiePendent]

Welcome! Good for you learning all you can before firing up a torch for the first time. That way you will be able to hop on and start mastering techniques in the correct order and not work to far ahead of yourself.

[phishinphree]

Thanks guys. Indie brings up a good point about how I should start out. I haven't seen much in the way of a recommended order of progression. I assume it somewhat depends on what you want to do with glass. For me, I'm looking to make pipes first. Obviously it'll take a while to get there, even simple wrap and rake spoons. But since this is such an expensive hobby, I'm aiming to get to a point where I can pay for my glass and o2 before I start exploring too much.

What would you suggest as a logical order to start out? I figured I'd spend a few days getting a feel for the temp and behavior of molten glass and how to create the flame I want on my torch. Then maybe a few mushroom pendents and then onto pulling points? I've got to say it looks easy sometimes in the videos but I know its pretty damn hard starting out. I can't wait to get started and although I'm not one to get discouraged easily, any pointers to start are greatly appreciated.