Business/Studio Name: Lampwork by Lori
Website: http://www.lampworkbylori.com
Years doing Glasswork: 5
Type of Glass: I use mostly soft glass (Effetre, Lauscha, etc.) to make beads. I'm slowly expanding into borosilicate beads.

Tell us...

A little about yourself (i.e. what town you live in, where you grew up, family members, pets, occupation, etc…)? I was born and raised in Indianapolis. I went to college at Anderson University (Anderson, IN) and graduated with degrees in Sociology/Psychology and Computer Science in 1985. Since then, I've spent most of my career as a technical writer specializing in software development.

I lived alone for many years, but decided to move back in with my parents in 2002. I enjoy living with them, but not as much as my Schnauzer, Zoe, who has become "Papaw's Girl." I am very, very blessed by living with my folks. Last year, my nephew, Jacob, moved in with us, my other nephew, Ben, visits when he can.

What are your hobbies besides glass? Lately, I've been experimenting with wire wrapping and metalsmithing.

I had been feeling very down about my beads, until I took a class sponsored by the Indiana Bead Society with wire jewelry artist Sharilyn Miller. Seeing my beads enhanced by jewelry has changed my whole attitude about them.

I also like to go to movies.

How you got into glass? I stumbled upon an E-bay auction for lampwork beads and was intrigued and said to myself, "I can do that!" Then, I found Wet Canvas! and studied voraciously for about a year. I made my first bead at Teri Shifflet's house. It's actually very good!

Favorite glass quote or saying and why? "Oh-beautiful-glaaaaasss..."
Jennifer Geldard taught me to say that while waiting for a gather to set up before pulling a stringer. It just cracks me up.

What you love about glass? My favorite thing is that it has brought me so many wonderful friendships. Also, I'm constantly amazed by the creativity people bring to glass. I consider myself a hobbyist, and I really love to see what a truly gifted artist can do with glass.

Where you sell your glass? Hmmm, well, I hate dealing with the selling part, so I often give them away! But, when I do sell, it's usually through www.lampworkbylori.etsy.com, or at small fairs or bazaars.

Any publications where you’ve been featured (if applicable)? Not yet!