Converting netted glass float balls into hanging lamps - Other Crafts

1 1961surf Tiki Socialite Newport Beach, Ca . Joined: May 03, 2007 Posts: 2065	1 1961surf Posted posted on Fri, Oct 29, 2010 6:35 PM @ Swanky most of the colored glass float lamps that were made in the 50's & 60's that were hanging from the ceilings of tiki establishments, were never actual real Japanese net floats. Most were made for exactly that.... hanging lamps.You of all people with your vast knowledge , I would think- would know that.You can not use a drill press... been there done that- too much vibration!Most original Japanese net floats were clear green only . I am converting reproduction China made glass netted balls (seven colors )into hang and swag lamps. The glass ball sits in a concaved large rubber donut to absorb vibration when cutting , while a second person is shooting a water stream to cool diamond core bit. Keep in mind , I have a local glass shop that is very knowledgable in glass cutting, actually cutting these for me .... and charging me up the kazoo to do so ! @Lugi and MadDog ...I wish that theory actually worked! My next goal is to find the right chemical acid wash to etch the inside of glass, primarily for outdoor and exterior applications.I don't like working with chemicals that you have to wear gloves so it doesn't burn the skin right off your arms.It's necessary though to withstand the elements , as discussed prior in this thread .WestADad's turned out well ....I am sure he will post an exterior night shot once he gets it hung up.The cobalt blue looks great at night. You watch.... WestADad will eventually have at least 5-6 glass float lamps in his tiki hut and backyard ! [ Edited by: 1961surf 2010-10-29 20:53 ]

@ Swanky most of the colored glass float lamps that were made in the 50's & 60's that were
hanging from the ceilings of tiki establishments, were never actual real Japanese net floats.
Most were made for exactly that.... hanging lamps.You of all people with your vast knowledge ,
I would think- would know that.You can not use a drill press... been there done that- too much
vibration!Most original Japanese net floats were clear green only .
I am converting reproduction China made glass netted balls (seven colors )into hang and swag lamps.

The glass ball sits in a concaved large rubber donut to absorb vibration when
cutting , while a second person is shooting a water stream to cool diamond core bit.
Keep in mind , I have a local glass shop that is very knowledgable in glass cutting,
actually cutting these for me .... and charging me up the kazoo to do so !

@Lugi and MadDog ...I wish that theory actually worked!
My next goal is to find the right chemical acid wash to etch the inside of glass,
primarily for outdoor and exterior applications.I don't like working with
chemicals that you have to wear gloves so it doesn't burn the skin right
off your arms.It's necessary though to withstand the elements , as discussed
prior in this thread .WestADad's turned out well ....I am sure he will post
an exterior night shot once he gets it hung up.The cobalt blue looks great at night.
You watch.... WestADad will eventually have at least 5-6 glass float lamps in
his tiki hut and backyard !

[ Edited by: 1961surf 2010-10-29 20:53 ]

Post #562432 by 1961surf on Fri, Oct 29, 2010 6:35 PM