[Jewelry making - Article 01403] - Re: [Orchid] Fear of torch and students lighting torches

[coralnut]

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Vicki,

    Lighting a torch is a serious matter. Any teacher who 'likes to
    scare students with the torch' should be sacked, tarred and feathered
    at the same time! I hope the allegations are not true. 

    I find at least one student out of 10 is afraid of lighting a torch.
    My way of handling it (others probably have their way) and de-mystify
    the process, is to demonstrate everything about the torch system
    first. From the tank to the tip....explain it all, what it does, how
    it does it and why. Then explain the electronic lighter (i.e., its a
    mini-taser essentially). Then I light the torch and explain different
    types of flames, how to adjust to get the flame you want, and what
    each is used for. At that point, each student must light the torch
    and adjust it. No one is exempt. If someone is hesitant, I hold their
    hand while lighting, several times if necessary. Then they do it
    solo. 

    That usually resolves their immediate fears, however, some continue
    to flinch for some time until they become completely at ease. 

    The moral of this little story is, practice in a controlled
    environment is the best teacher. 

    Cheers from Don at The Charles Belle Studio in SOFL where simple
    elegance IS fine jewelry!
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