The issue where we explore the fascinating world of marbles is such a favorite of mine. Marbles can be captivating and quite addictive once you conquer the sometimes illusive round shape.
Contemporary marbles and paperweights are collected to this day and have such a fascinating history. Our children and their friends have a great time playing classic marble games and making up their own. The part they enjoy the most, though, is selecting their favorite marbles to play with. Our only rule is no boro marbles only softies. Playing for "keepsies" also makes the game way more exciting! If you'd like to check out a few classic marble games, you can go to www.landofmarbles.com, where you will find plenty of information about playing with as well as collecting marbles. Antique marble toys, mazes, and runs can be downright habit forming if you love old glass memorabilia.
If you're in the market to sell some of your marble art, there are a few things to keep in mind when catering to the collector. Visible flaws such as bubbles (unless intentional), striations, and scratches can adversely affect the value. When it comes to marbles, however, complete roundness is the most important aspect to serious collectors. With contemporary marbles and paperweights, an identifying mark and date are also imperative.
Whether you are making paperweights or spheres, you are sure to find inspiration in this issue! There are nine great tutorials to guide you as you pursue that perfect marble, with information for everything from creating an air trap implosion marble, decorating the back sides, and cold working implosion cubes to creating tiny universes in glass and making sure that your marble runs are operating at their optimal best. All in all, I'd say the adventures in this issue will keep you creating for quite a while.
As always . . . Keep your light shining and your torches lit!
Jennifer Menzies
Upcoming Deadlines for Submission
Winter 2011 Seventh Annual Women in Glass
Submission Deadline September 1, 2011
Release Date December 17, 2011
Spring 2012 The Forms of Function
Submission Deadline December 1, 2011
Release Date March 18, 2012
If you are interested in becoming a contributing artist for The Flow, visit www.theflowmagazine.com for a link to themes of upcoming issues, author guidelines, and submission forms.
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