lead crystal

[squirrellglider]

Hello all,
I am quite new to kiln casting, I've spent most of my working life as a comercial sculptor using plastics and elastomers, so all the intricassies of moulding and mould making are part of my stock in trade. What I am looking for is some information on casting lead crystal and more importantly how to get it without having to make it myself. However if it comes to the crunch I would be happy to make it myself especially if there is anyone out there with a good recipe. Thanking you all in anticipation Terry

[Bert Weiss]

Terry

Look in to Gaffer lead crystal. It is made in NZ. There are many excellent glass casters in Australia, to learn from. Chances are you can trade mold making info for glass casting info.

[Morganica]

Gaffer is a great crystal; I use it quite a bit. Since you are in that part of the world, you might also try Blackwood Crystal. I've not used it (not sold in North America) but I've heard it's wonderful. I don't think he has a website but I found this:

http://www.dicast.co.nz/store/11/Blackw ... on-Colours

What types of casting are you interested in?

[squirrellglider]

Hello Bert and Cynthea,
Thank you both for you info, I had unsuccessfully googled lead crystal suppliers and was thinking I was out of luck here in this part of the world. In answer to your question Cynthea, about my prospective efforts, I am interested in large sculptural pieces and in combining ceramic and glass to get interesting effects. I have a large Duncan kiln, and a flatbed kiln approx. 1.5 Mtrs X .75 Mtrs. so castings of twenty to thirty kilos of glass will be within range. Terry!!

[Peter Angel]

Blackwoods casting crystal is based in Victoria. James Thompson. 03 5773 2203.