Which torch for newbie neice?

[lorwolff]

I taught my 13 year old neice to make beads.
She loved it, and seems to be a natural. I loved watching her learn, and how very quickly she picked up on everything. We used a minor bench burner for the lessons.
I want to get her a set up for her home. (Don't worry, I already got my brother's permission..., he'll supervise her at home)
I want to start her out on a Hot Head, or something else in the same price range.
I haven't used the HH for a long time.
Is there any other torch in that size range that I should be considering?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,

[hayjoshrae]

Loraine,
I just started making beads about two months ago, so someone more experienced may want to pop in, but I work on a Hot Head and it suits me perfectly. It's such a simple setup.... I'm not sitting there worried about too much propane or oxygen, or too little - I can concentrate on my beads.... I plan on "upgrading" later, but my little HH is a buddy now that I don't plan on ever parting with!! I think it is the perfect torch to start with.

Hope this helps!

[mizzbuck]

Definitely go with the Hot Head. A very good torch for the price and easy to use. If she takes off with beadmaking her Daddy surely with upgrade her eventually when she is ready, but she could go on making great beads on a Hot Head for a long time. I got my starter kit from one of WC's advertisers, you probably see their ads on here all the time.... Heritage Glass. Good price for the kit and it comes with everything you need to get started.

HTH,

MB

[jessicah]

I agree. Hot Head is the way to go. I started on a hot head, and have no regrets. I'm now on a minor, but won't get rid of my trusty hot head. I haven't heard as many good things about the Quiet Torch or Fireworks as I have about the hot head.