Torch update
I had found the next torch up from the Nortel Minor, the Mega Minor, which will do more of the glass sculpting I enjoy, and on a bigger scale, but there is only a $75 difference in price between the two. So, I went to the glass shop today to ask them questions about the Mega Minor and show them samples of the type of sculpting I want to do, and this is the torch I am now getting.
Here's the exciting part! The Minor, with shipping, would be about $215+tax. The Mega would be about $287+tax. They are going to sell me the Mega for, at most, $250, and are trying to find me a better deal. My accumulated holiday pay plus the extra hours I worked should cover this.
Here's the really exciting part! As I was leaving, they asked me if I would work there tomorrow. It won't become permanent, but I'm so excited nonetheless! I'm studying the method for a glass sculpture I'm interested in (because it's difficult to look at notes when you are trying to keep glass warm in a hot flame), and trying to figure in my own "style" so that if I get a chance on the torch tomorrow, I can make it. If it works and it sells, maybe they'll take more of my stuff in future?