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Combination bends require 3-D thinking.
Neon folks, it’s finally glasswork time again. I couldn’t totally abstain from my neon addiction, but other subjects required prior coverage.
Meanwhile, my internet chats with neon enthusiasts proved, contrary to negative rumors, the neon field is still growing – many new benders graduated from neon schools, and new shops have opened. U.S. benders typically take a six- or eight-week neon class, whereas Germany and Holland require a three-year apprenticeship. A few weeks provides basic knowledge, but not enough practice to be a professional.
As a pure autodidact (people wouldn’t even let me see them work), I had difficulty in the beginning with some so-called “combination” bends. We glassblowers have our own, special tricks, and I’ll share my method (but I don’t claim it’s the only way).
Basic and combination bends
Every neonbender’s first lesson should cover how to divide a letter’s or word’s complex shape into basic elements, from which all neon-tube shapes are built. If every beginner could perfectly execute these basics, they’d immediately be hired. I’ve heard the story of a bender who applied for a job and was asked to complete an “open” sign in less than 15 minutes. The bender didn‘t believe it could be done, but the boss showed him it’s possible.
The first edition (1935) of S. Miller’s Neon Signs said: “Combination bends … must be used in many cases, particularly in connection with the angle bend. This bend is in reality two bends close together, to bring the rear piece of glass in a bend-back flush with the face of the sign and make the required angle. The bend may be made in two steps, but, usually, the two parts are made at the same time.”
The latest edition (Neon Techniques, fourth edition, available from ST Books, www.stmediagroup. com/stbooks) says to turn the tube 90° “inward” while making the angle bend. I wasn’t sure what “inward” meant when I began bending. Even today, I familiarize myself with the coordinates before I attempt to make the bend.
To achieve a successful combination bend, I try to complete one fluid move, rather than two, separate ones, to maximize the short time that the glass is hot and uniformly fluid. But, the process happens quickly -- less than one to two seconds, which is too quick for most cameras, even with a winder.
