Examples of raked glass beads used as my inspiration can be seen on the Glass and Amber page by Regia Anglorum.

copyright 2000, Jhan A. Knebel
worldbead@yahoo.com

Raked Beads
Viking Glass Beads
400-700 AD

About the Piece

Although I have had difficulty specifically dating this technique, it is seen on Viking beads. Most raked beads are more complex in design. This style of bead is very popular within the SCA, as it resembles a laurel wreath.

Production Method

This style of bead is produced by using a hot-head torch and MAPP gas. The glass is heated in the flame until molten and applied to a stainless steel mandrel coated in bead release (slip.)

The first layer of glass is applied to the mandrel and shaped into a round bead by spinning it in the flame. A stringer of glass in a different color is applied in stripes parallel to the bead hole around the entire surface. These stripes are melted completely into the surface. A rake is then used to draw the straight lines into the V shaped pattern. The bead is returned to the flame and allowed to return to it's round shape, as the process of raking the bead distorts it's shape.

The beads are placed in a fiber blanket for cooling. They will be annealed once I either purchase or gain access to a kiln. However, I have not had the location available to build a period kiln.

Resources

Glass and Amber. Regia Anglorum Publications 1995. http://mahan.wonkwang.ac.kr/link/med/england/society/villiage/skills/glass.htm

Dubin, Lois Sherr. The History of Beads. New York: Harry N Abrams; 1987