All guides·Updated 2026-08-12
How to judge bead melt state—one light check
After ironing, hold the piece to light. Hole shape + whether light passes through tells you under-ironed, nearly done, 闷豆, or too-hot melt. Use the six photo checks below before you overcook the piece.
1. Center holes still open and light passes through
If beads still show clear round center holes and light shines through, they are under-ironed. Keep ironing a little—this stage is usually salvageable.
2. Center holes visible but no light through
Holes remain in the middle, but the backs have closed enough that light no longer passes. Still slightly under-done—warm a little more and stop. Do not over-iron.
3. Small edge pinholes and light still passes
Beads look more fused around the edges but tiny holes remain and light still comes through. That still means under-ironed—keep going until light stops.
4. Small edge pinholes but opaque
Pinholes remain on the surface, but no light passes. Usually still a touch under-done—add a short pass and stop early so you do not overcook.
5. Odd large edge gaps and no light (classic 闷豆)
This is classic 闷豆 (muffled / pulled-apart edges): oddly shaped large gaps around the rim, and no light through. Many makers accept a remake; a salvage trick is to cut open beads and refill the muffled spots.
Prevention beats repair: even pressure, patience, and check with light before you force a full melt.
6. Odd holes plus open centers—heat too high
When the rim looks warped and centers still show holes, heat was too aggressive: beads “闷” at the edges before the middle could melt evenly. Drop the iron setting about two or three notches and remelt more slowly next time.
