| Wonder blocks come in a wide range of sizes to create spheres from the size of marbles to large paperweights. All of the blocks have the same shape, a half hemisphere. Each block has appropriate size notch in it to allow easy blocking. The all-steel construction will not change size or shape guaranteeing consistent results over time. A 3/8 nut is welded to each block allowing for easy removal of the handle. Hexagonal aluminum handles can be purchased separately along with cork powder and mold glue. The wonder block is best suited for situations where consistency of product shape and size are important. The wonder block is a finishing tool and is not a substitute for a traditional block. Do not use the wonder block to shape or cool glass straight out of the furnace. This will scorch the cork and cause the glass to stick to the cork. This will ruin the block but the cork will likely be damaged and the glass will have imperfections in it. Mr. Wizard corks all of the blocks that he sells. Take a good look at it before you use it. This is what it is suppose to look like when you are done corking it. The corking instructions are straight forward, but like everything a little practice goes a long way. You can find the corking instructions on www.glasscolor.com in the tools and molds section. So you have thoroughly scrutinized the wonder block. Now it is time to burn it in. Just like with wood blocks, wonder blocks need to be burned in. Gather some glass (enough to fill the wonder block) block it with a wood block and then with a wonder block. It will quickly burn into a smooth block that is ready to go. The wonder block is used in the final shaping of the paperweight. After the final gather has been blocked a jack line is cut into the glass. This will determine the volume of the paperweight and facilitate in the blocking with the wonder block. The wonder block is dipped in water to moisten it so that the glass will not stick and this also extends the life of the cork. Once the glass has the correct shape the paperweight can be fire polished. If minor reshaping is required the wonder block can be used dry. Using the block dry will avoid causing chill marks and produce a nicer finish that is easier to fire polish. This is my take on the wonder block, Mr. Wizard said it sounded good so if you have any questions or comments I would appreciate hearing them. - Jim Moore  | 
