I have recently started pulling and blowing sugar. I have used 2 or 3 similar recipes and believe I have followed them to the letter yet my results are not what I expected. Two basic problems:

1. The sugar seems to have a lot of air bubbles in it and when I attempt to work the sugar the texture is rough as opposed to smooth and clear.

2. The sugar mass seems to be overly soft and when pulled or blown will not hold a shape I am wanting. I am using a microwave at 3 sec intervals to warm the sugar to a maleable state. Too much acid in the mixture, perhaps?

I have more questions, but this will get me started. Thanks

Air bubbles are proably being caused by over pulling. I would not pull it over 20 times. What kind of sugar are you using? The soft state could be to much acid. What type acid are you using and how much? You should really consider getting a heat lamp and warming box not to crazy about microwaves. Post one of your recipes so I can look at it. What happens when you pull sugar you are introducing air into it.