Bench roller for flameworking/lampworking

This allows you to steadily rotate a rod of glass for centering, adjustment, allowing the artist to rest, etc.
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updated January 30, 2025

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Bench rollers are invaluable tools for solid or hollow flameworking -- for quickly checking and centering your handles and work in progress.  But as a newbie, I got frustrated at the $250+ price tag, so I designed these and immediately started seeing the benefits in my work.  Check this video for a good example (using a different roller): https://youtu.be/T7W_gnHKcBc?si=BZYw2y3XtAAHbuph&t=386

You will need standard 8mm x 22mm x 7mm skateboard bearings, M8 / 5/16" bolts/nuts/washers, and a small length of half-inch PVC irrigation pipe to build.  The pipe should be a snug fit, so gluing is optional.  I'd more recommend that you screw the whole thing to your workbench or to a heavy piece of wood, so that you can use the rollers quickly without having to worry about knocking them over.

Due to being made out of plastic, these are not for use right next to your torch or other burner.  I print them with polycarbonate for the most heat resistance, which is self-extinguishing and supposedly does not emit hazardous fumes if burned.

FULLY BUILT ROLLERS available for purchase here if you can't print polycarbonate, or don't want to go through the trouble of gathering all the parts yourself: https://hpglassstudio.etsy.com

HARDWARE KITS  are also available at the above link, has everything you need to make it go.

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