Recycled glass beads are in high demand because of their uniqueness. The process of making Recycled glass beads varies from one region to the other. This means Recycled glass beads are different in size, shape, color, and other aspects. Most common shapes of Recycled glass beads are round, cubic, drops, rondelle, barrel, tubular, disks and heart shaped.
African rondelle Beads are round, flat and can be made from a variety of materials. They are usually used as spacers in beadwork. Since they are highly decorative and tend to give great visual interest to any piece they are added to. There is a lot of interest in African recycled rondalle beads because their form and color invite touch, and because no two beads are the same.
Step #1
The first step in making the beads is collecting and sorting bottles according to their color. After this, it is crushed to form fritt. After the crushing, moulds are made for the beads depending on the size and shape of the beads you want to make.
Step #2
The next step is the baking of the recycled glass. This is done in a kiln and traditional kilns are still used in different parts of Africa. After the baking, the recycled glass beads are shaped. Shaping is done immediately after the beads have been removed from the kiln. This is done using two awls in some places and tools shaped like ice picks in others. When the beads are still hot, they are perforated using sharp metal tools.
Step #3
After this, the beads are cooled down and painting begins. The painting is done using a wooden stick and the paste used is made from colored glass powder that is dissolved in water. The beads are then baked again to make the décor permanent. The beads are then ready for making ornaments.
