roger s. coates on thu 8 aug 96
I'm getting materials and plans together to make pottery fountains for floor and
table top use. I would like to hear what others are using for pumps. Any other
helpful information on making fountains would ofcourse be appreciated!
FIA--Roger in sunny Paw Paw MI.
Laura Freedman on fri 9 aug 96
roger s. coates wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> I'm getting materials and plans together to make pottery fountains for floor a
> table top use. I would like to hear what others are using for pumps. Any oth
> helpful information on making fountains would ofcourse be appreciated!
> FIA--Roger in sunny Paw Paw MI.
I have never done this myself but a while back there was information on
Clayart about using small pump purchased from a pet store. They run
about$25. Since then, my friend has put a fountain together and used one
of those pumps. Works well.
Scott Finney on fri 9 aug 96
PUMPS PUMPS PUMPS JUST KEEP ON PUMP'N
I have made a number of large foutains over the years and have used
Little Giant pumps. They have been very reliale and relativly energy
efficient. One in particular has been in operation for more than five
years with no problems. There is one model in particular that I like,
it was designed to be used in drip pans and has an automatic on/off
switch sensitive to water level. This funtion is particularly usefully
in case you run low on water which could burnout an ordinary pump. Just
something to be considered.
If you would like any additional technical help feel free to drop me
some E-mail.
Scott Finney
Clay Expressions
PO Box 874
Bolinas, Ca 94924
finney@linex.com
Duane Kimball on sat 10 aug 96
fountains are fun, good feng shui, and not difficult to make. beckett
submersible pumps are available at local nurseries, but they are costly
retail. they come in a range of sizes and have an adjuster built in which
allows you to select different speeds for water flow. i found that buying
direct from the company cut the price by more than 50%. they are at:
214-357-6421; 2521 /willowbrook road, dallas, texas, KIK in NH
Cathy Nelson Hartman on sat 10 aug 96
Regarding fountain pumps and other parts. A very easily found source is
the Home Depot Stores. They have pumps, flow regulators, vinyl pool liner
fabric in various thicknesses, they have a source for rigid plastic
pools-like kidney shaped, and other shapes, flexible vinyl tubing. Home
Depot prices are the lowest retail I know of. If you are buying a
wholesale quantity, then you might go to the wholesale source for the
items. But to test the water, I'd go to Home Depot.
walter hartman
Pamela Jo Stamper on sun 11 aug 96
Hi,
For ceramic fountains,I go to a large pet store and buy a
submersible aquarium pump for my fountains. They don't need to be very
large. The first ones I got were too big and pumped too much water with a
resulting mess. Most have an adjustment for water flow and I would suggest
trying a small pump first.
Pamela (on the North Oregon coast -- sunny and beautiful today)
Carrie Hawk on sun 11 aug 96
On Fri, 9 Aug 1996 14:14:38 EDT
Scott Finney
wrote
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
PUMPS PUMPS PUMPS JUST KEEP ON PUMP'N
I have made a number of large foutains over the years and have used
Little Giant pumps. They have been very reliale and relativly energy
efficient. One in particular has been in operation for more than five
years with no problems. There is one model in particular that I like,
it was designed to be used in drip pans and has an automatic on/off
switch sensitive to water level. This funtion is particularly usefully
in case you run low on water which could burnout an ordinary pump. Just
something to be considered.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Scott,
Where can we find the Little Giant pumps? The automatic shutoff sounds like
a good idea.
Carrie on the Little Duck River in beautiful, downtown
Manchester, Tennessee, USA
Lee Jaffe on sun 11 aug 96
I haven't made any fountains but have acquired two
in the past month. Both came with pumps supplied.
Each was a different brand, but seemed more or less
identical. Both had adjustments for flow rates in the
form of a slide-style switch, and one came with an
alternate propeller which could be used to change
the pumping rate.
Both of our fountains have a reservoir at the bottom,
in which the pump sits, and water is pumped to an upper
reservoir from which it spills back down. I mention
this because it seems that the structure of the fountain
would make a big difference in what kind of pump you
needed. Some shoot the water into the air and it
splashes back down in to the fountain (if you're lucky)
and others shoot the water in an arch back into the
pond, and some just burble the water to the top of a
figure and let it drip back down.
I've done some exploration of fountain pumps and find that
they are rated in terms of rate of flow. You can go to a
good garden supply store and find them arrayed in increasing
power across the shelves. You might even look at some
fountains displayed at the store, pick out one in the
hydrodynamic style you are planning to make and ask
what power pump should be used.
One thing I've noticed with our latest fountain, a terra-
cotta wall-mounted beauty, is that if you get it started
right water pours down fine, but sometimes it will start
up with the water pouring too far out over the upper
lip and then splashes down too loudly. From experimenting,
it doesn't seem to have anything to do with the pump. If
I touch the edge of the water and redirect the flow, it
will splash properly from then on. These things are
really tricky.
-- Lee Jaffe, Santa Cruz
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>I'm getting materials and plans together to make pottery fountains for
>floor and
>table top use. I would like to hear what others are using for pumps. Any
>other
>helpful information on making fountains would ofcourse be appreciated!
>FIA--Roger in sunny Paw Paw MI.
Don Goodrich on sun 11 aug 96
Hi, it's good to be back on ClayArt. Talking with folks in person at the
fairs has its advantages, but one misses the comfort, convenience, and
diversity of these online conversations. Anyway, to address a topic at hand:
I've noticed fountain pumps (in a variety of sizes) for sale at Builders
Square stores in the Midwest U.S. They're probably available at other large
home centers as well. --Don Goodrich
Scott Finney on tue 13 aug 96
Little Giant pumps can be found in most hardware stores in my area. The
particular pump that has the automatic on/off switch is one that is
made for refrigeration units with drip pans. The pump has a mercury
switch on a float, and has been extremely reliabe for me. The only
problem I've encounter is the invation of an occasional racoon hunting
my fish. They can dislodge the switch temporarily causing the pump to
turn off with no damage done. Best of luck with your fountains.
Scott Finney
Clay Expressions
finney@linex.com
Barbara Long on mon 30 jun 97
If I might also prevail upon the group for one more question...
Does anyone know of a supplier for small fountain pumps? I have recently
been asked to make a small desk top fountain and haven't the foggiest
idea where to get the pump.
Thanks again
Barbara in Lyme, Ct
Jim Duffy on tue 1 jul 97
At your lawn and garden center, purchase any of the smallest pumps for
water gardening. There are several name brands, but they all are
adaptable to your use.
Barbara Long wrote:
> ----------------------------Original
> message----------------------------
> If I might also prevail upon the group for one more question...
> Does anyone know of a supplier for small fountain pumps? I have
> recently
> been asked to make a small desk top fountain and haven't the foggiest
> idea where to get the pump.
> Thanks again
> Barbara in Lyme, Ct
Ed Kraft on tue 1 jul 97
There are many small pump manufactures. I mostly use Aqua Pump/FP-1, which I
order from Aftosa (800 231-0397). Most of the small pumps have a water flow
adjustment. They are designed for continual running. The Aqua pump produces
50GPH at pump outlet diminishing to a max height of 20".
Little Giant makes a small pump approx. same size as one above. It produces
80GPH. It has a 3 wire power cord which makes a thicker cord than the 2 wire
Aqua pump. You can probably find the Little Giant pumps locally. I use the
larger Little Giant pumps for the outdoor landscape fountains that I make.
Beckett also makes a small pump suitable for your needs. Its called Baby Versa
model M60A. It produces 70GPH.
You should be able to find Little Giant and Beckett pumps at your local water
gardening center. They may not carry the smaller ones but they could order
one.
There are other good pumps on the market but these will probably be the
easiest to find. Good Luck!
Ed Kraft
Bellingham, WA
Eartharr@msn.com
Stern HQ on wed 2 jul 97
I am about to embark upon an outdoor fountain project. I intend to use
low fire clay since I want many bright colors. Does anyone have any
experience with using earthenware, terra cotta type clays for all year
round outdoor use in the Rocky Mountain region? I will welcome all advice
I can get on this project. TIA Jeni in Denver
On Tue, 1 Jul 1997, Ed Kraft wrote:
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> There are many small pump manufactures. I mostly use Aqua Pump/FP-1, which I
> order from Aftosa (800 231-0397). Most of the small pumps have a water flow
> adjustment. They are designed for continual running. The Aqua pump produces
> 50GPH at pump outlet diminishing to a max height of 20".
>
> Little Giant makes a small pump approx. same size as one above. It produces
> 80GPH. It has a 3 wire power cord which makes a thicker cord than the 2 wire
> Aqua pump. You can probably find the Little Giant pumps locally. I use the
> larger Little Giant pumps for the outdoor landscape fountains that I make.
>
> Beckett also makes a small pump suitable for your needs. Its called Baby Versa
> model M60A. It produces 70GPH.
>
> You should be able to find Little Giant and Beckett pumps at your local water
> gardening center. They may not carry the smaller ones but they could order
> one.
>
> There are other good pumps on the market but these will probably be the
> easiest to find. Good Luck!
>
> Ed Kraft
> Bellingham, WA
> Eartharr@msn.com
>
Huel's on wed 2 jul 97
In message "Fountain Pumps", Barbara Long said:
>----------------------------Original
>message---------------------------- If I might also prevail upon the
>group for one more question... Does anyone know of a supplier for
>small fountain pumps? I have recently been asked to make a small desk
>top fountain and haven't the foggiest idea where to get the pump.
>Thanks again Barbara in Lyme, Ct
The Aquarius 1 fountain pump by Oase is great. It has a variable
speed and nice rubber feet. The number for Oase pumps Inc. is 1 800
365-3880 They are in California, but the pumps should be distributed
elsewhere.
Carole
P a u l & C a r o l e H u e l - Kispiox Valley, B.C. Canada
email: bella@mail.netshop.net http://www.netshop.net/~bella
Jim Duffy on thu 3 jul 97
The higher percentage absorbsion your fired clay has, the greater the
chance of cracking in the winter during freezes and thaws. A completely
glazed piece (bottom also)would be safer. You can also over-fire the
piece to make the body less absorbant.
Stern HQ wrote:
> ----------------------------Original
> message----------------------------
> I am about to embark upon an outdoor fountain project. I intend to
> use
> low fire clay since I want many bright colors. Does anyone have any
> experience with using earthenware, terra cotta type clays for all year
>
> round outdoor use in the Rocky Mountain region? I will welcome all
> advice
> I can get on this project. TIA Jeni in Denver
>
> On Tue, 1 Jul 1997, Ed Kraft wrote:
>
> > ----------------------------Original
> message----------------------------
> > There are many small pump manufactures. I mostly use Aqua
> Pump/FP-1, which I
> > order from Aftosa (800 231-0397). Most of the small pumps have a
> water flow
> > adjustment. They are designed for continual running. The Aqua pump
> produces
> > 50GPH at pump outlet diminishing to a max height of 20".
> >
> > Little Giant makes a small pump approx. same size as one above. It
> produces
> > 80GPH. It has a 3 wire power cord which makes a thicker cord than
> the 2 wire
> > Aqua pump. You can probably find the Little Giant pumps locally. I
> use the
> > larger Little Giant pumps for the outdoor landscape fountains that I
> make.
> >
> > Beckett also makes a small pump suitable for your needs. Its called
> Baby Versa
> > model M60A. It produces 70GPH.
> >
> > You should be able to find Little Giant and Beckett pumps at your
> local water
> > gardening center. They may not carry the smaller ones but they
> could order
> > one.
> >
> > There are other good pumps on the market but these will probably be
> the
> > easiest to find. Good Luck!
> >
> > Ed Kraft
> > Bellingham, WA
> > Eartharr@msn.com
> >
WACKY on thu 3 jul 97
On Wed, 2 Jul 1997, Stern HQ wrote:
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> I am about to embark upon an outdoor fountain project. I intend to use
> low fire clay since I want many bright colors. Does anyone have any
> experience with using earthenware, terra cotta type clays for all year
> round outdoor use in the Rocky Mountain region? I will welcome all advice
> I can get on this project. TIA Jeni in Denver
hi stern,
hey, i have seen table-top fountains (0.5m in ht, 0.3m in widths) made
of terracotta . i think it is JB3--Keuper REd. the result is its matte
surface quality.(a little rought to touch) i do not recall any coat of
glaze...hmmmm....but the surprising thing is that water does not seem to
"leak" despite a lack of protective coat. the maker experimented with
another series in deep blue hues. since you like colours, i am sure
you will be able to produce an interesting display of outdoor fountains
with multiple colours.
keep in touch.
yen
cobbeldi on sun 17 aug 97
Awhile back, I remember seeing some information on where to purchase
fountain pumps for indoor tabletop fountains. I can't seem to find the
information. If anyone has that information, you can e-mail me directly
with it. TIA
Debra in Alabama
Jeanne Ormsby on fri 22 aug 97
I have been thinking about making some table top fountains/waterfalls.
Where do you buy the pumps to recirculate the water? Are there any big
pitfalls to avoid in designing these pieces?
Many thanks,
Jeanne
Susan L. Ross on sat 23 aug 97
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
I have been thinking about making some table top fountains/waterfalls...
Jeanne
----------------------
Hi Jeanne
Not sure about the pitfalls but I have a metal sculpted fountain which uses
an ordinary fish aquarium pump. I've run my fountain on and off for several
years and have never had a problem with the pump itself. However, the water
level in the main bowl would rapidly drop from time to time. Took me a while
to figure that one out... darn those cats...thank the gods there are no
fish...
Su
Ed Kraft on sun 24 aug 97
Hi Jeanne
There are many small pump manufactures. I mostly use Aqua Pump 1 FP-1 which I
order from Aftosa (800 231-0397 or try http://aftosa.com/html/catalog.html).
The catalogue item 'submersible fountain pump', item number FP-1 is the one I
use, and when bought by the dozen are a reasonable price. The pumps have
proven to be most durable and also have a two wire cord as opposed to a three
wire cord, which is less thick and more appealing for home use. The Aqua pump
produces 50 GPH at the pump outlet diminishing to a max. height of 20" and the
flow volume can also be adjusted at the pump.
A major design consideration is to keep the water from splashing out and onto
someone's expensive furniture. This can be achieved by varying the shape of
your water container and using rocks in the bottom.
If you would like more info e-mail me and I will be glad to help.
Ed Kraft
Bellingham, WA
eartharr@msn.com
Mike Vatalaro on mon 25 aug 97
Jeanne, A student of mine was looking for a small pump this
summer , recently I recieved an AFTOSA catalogue ,and they have several
to choose from, havent tried it myself but here's the address
Aftosa
1034 Ohio Ave
Richmond, CA
94804
Phone 1-510, 233-0334
Good luck---- Mike Vatalaro/ Clemson U
Deb Pratt on thu 30 jul 98
Hi-
Another source for fountain pumps, probably limited to tabletop or small
fountains, is Aftosa Wholesale Pottery and Craft Supplies.
www.aftosa.com or 800-231-0937. Volume discounts also.
A little more expensive than the ones someone else mentioned, but these
seem very dependable compared to the ones I found at Lowe's home and
building supply place and slightly less expensive. I tried a local pet
supply store and they had zip. I appreciate everyone else's responses;
the more options, the better!
Have fun!
Deb
______________________________________________________
Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com
Debby Grant on thu 8 oct 98
Dear Pam,
I am not replying off list because I agree with the recent posts about
not doing that.
You can buy fountain pumps at any place that sells garden supplies
like HQ, Home Depot, or some other plant and garden shops. They
cost around $30.00 in these places. However, Aftosa sells a very
nice small pump for $18.95. They are located in Richmond, CA
and their toll free tel # is 800 231-0397. Call them and ask for a
catalog as they sell many other useful things.
As for giving you an idea for a project, I can only suggest that you
go around looking at commercial fountains and or artists's fountains
to observe the way they work. I like to use a theme for mine but
I have seen some very nice abstract fountains with water cascading
down different levels. You do have to give it a lot of thought.
Good luck, Debby Grant in NH
Tom Wirt on sun 11 oct 98
As someone recently posted, you can get these on the net at
http://www.petwhse.com/. They're about $12
Tom
Flat Earth Clay Works, Inc. on wed 28 apr 99
Hi All,
Does anyone out there have a good source or know of a good source for
submersible fountain pumps? We have gotten into doing table fountains in =
the
last year or so and would like to find a cheaper pump. We are hoping to =
find
some that are around =24 10.00 each, including freight. I think that we use=
the
smallest size that is available (about 50 gph). We appreciate any =
information
that you could send us.
Thanks=21
Michelle
Flat Earth Clay Works, Inc.
Tom Wirt on thu 29 apr 99
Michelle,
Go to the Pet Warehouse website. They've got it all and ship in a day.
www.petwarehouse.com
Tom Wirt,
Jan Doyle on thu 29 apr 99
Greetings,
After a great deal of research, I found the perfect place to order pumps
- RENA OEM Sales Division (800) 847-0659. Because the prices are in
bulk, you get a great deal depending on the amount you order. You can
call for a catalog. Keep in mind that they only sell in bulk which is
25 pumps per case and there's a minimum order. I attend classes at
Columbia Visual Arts Center in Maryland and took orders from several
fellow potters and then placed a large order. This seemed to work out
well and now we're all happy fountain makers.
Jan Doyle
Hope Springs Pottery
Mt. Airy, Maryland
HandsInCla@aol.com on sat 1 may 99
Michelle-
The cheapest I've seen submersible pumps are $8.95 for one and if you buy a
dozen each will cost you $7.95.
Source: Lou Davis Wholesale, 1-800-748-7991 (call and request the catalog)
They also have fountain pumps with mini lights and something called "Tropical
Cloud Fogger" which generates misty cloud effects.
Linda Pahl
Cindy Dueringer on sat 1 may 99
In a message dated 4/30/99 8:04:06 AM Central Daylight Time,
fabienne@justnet.com writes:
<< ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Michelle,
>
>Go to the Pet Warehouse website. They've got it all and ship in a day.
>
>www.petwarehouse.com
>
>Tom Wirt,
>>
Eh, help. I've been trying to connect to petwarehouse since I read your post
and I get a "connection refused" error. Anyone else having trouble
connecting? Do they have a phone number or do they have a catalog that can
be ordered on voice or snail mail?
KC
Tom Wirt on sat 1 may 99
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>>>Hi Tom,
>>>I did get one of their smallest available pumps; it had a thick round
cord
which is not very flexible and thus is very obvious compared to the one
Aftosa sells which has a flexible smaller flat cord. That's the only
difference I could discern. The round cord made it difficult to arrange
the pump in the fountain.
>>>Did anyone else have problem with cords' thickness and, therefore,
flexibility? How did you handle it?<<<
Hi Faye, Guess I should have specified the Aqua Pump 1 more specifically.
We bought one each of all the cheap pumps (around $12). The only one that
works well in fountains (IMHO) is the Aqua Pump for the very reason you
stated.
The large round cord is apparently required on Exterior approved pumps.
Also, most pumps have the cord coming out the same side as the nozzle.
Aqua Pump comes out the side.
If the pump is in good shape and you've got the box, I'm sure they'd take it
back.
Tom
Faye
At 07:39 AM 4/29/99 -0400, you wrote:
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Michelle,
>
>Go to the Pet Warehouse website. They've got it all and ship in a day.
>
>www.petwarehouse.com
>
>Tom Wirt,
Suzanne Jebaily on sun 2 may 99
Yes I also had the same trouble, but accidentally ran across another name for
the company while searching the archives for something else...I think I
searched by thread index and the subject was listed as submersible pumps.
May be that's the correct url.
Suzanne in rainy SC
Chris Schafale on sat 8 nov 03
Hi folks,
Looking for some advice. I have been making
fountains for several years, and have been getting my
pumps online at a vet supply place that is now called
www.drsfostersmith.com (used to be
petwarehouse.com). The ones I really like (small,
quiet), were called Aqua Pump, and they ran about $10
apiece. The problem is, they don't seem to be
available from this supplier anymore, and a web search
turns them up only at Aftosa for about double the price.
Does anyone have a lead on these or something like
them, at a reasonable price? I've tried the MicroJet
pumps and find them too noisy (if you like them, I've
got several I'd be happy to give you....).
Any suggestions? I need to get these soon -- I've got
four fountains and only two pumps for my upcoming
sales, unless I use those miserable MicroJets. Thanks.
Chris SchafaleLight One Candle Pottery
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, USA
(south of Raleigh)
candle@intrex.net
http://www.lightonecandle.com
wayneinkeywest on sat 8 nov 03
Axner sells Fountain pumps. I just spotted them in the back of their
current catalog, but you should be able to "search" it from their website at
http://www.axner.com
Hope that helps,
Wayne Seidl
excuse me while I go shoo the iguanas off the bananas ripening over the
kiln, thieving little buggers!
> Hi folks,
>
> Looking for some advice. I have been making
> fountains for several years,
snip
> Any suggestions? I need to get these soon -- I've got
> four fountains and only two pumps for my upcoming
> sales, unless I use those miserable MicroJets. Thanks.
>
> Chris SchafaleLight One Candle Pottery
> Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, USA
Scott Harrison on sat 8 nov 03
We get our pumps from Lou Davis Wholesale. You can get them onlne at
www.loudavis.com.
Scott Harrison
South Fork High School
Humboldt Redwoods
Josie Norman on sat 8 nov 03
Chris, Try Lou Davis catalog they have several different pumps that might work for you. Also there's a place that's called National Craft Supply they also have several different pumps. I think that's where I got the Aqua Pumps I've used
in the past. They're both good company's to deal with fast service and very reasonable prices. Josie in the Village of the Arts in sunny Bradenton, Florida
Josie Norman
crackedpot933@earthlink.net
Why Wait? Move to EarthLink.
Josie Norman on sat 8 nov 03
Chris, The website is www.nationalartcraft.com sorry I don't include it before.
Josie Norman
crackedpot933@earthlink.net
Why Wait? Move to EarthLink.
wayneinkeywest on sun 9 nov 03
Leafing through the latest issue of the Harbor Freight catalog, I notice
mini submersible fountain pumps.
145 gpm, 1/2 inch output
part number 45305-1BGB price of $7.49
That might be what you're looking for, Chris.
Wayne Seidl
> Chris, The website is www.nationalartcraft.com sorry I don't include it
before.
>
>
> Josie Norman
> crackedpot933@earthlink.net
> Why Wait? Move to EarthLink.
>
>
____________________________________________________________________________
__
> Send postings to clayart@lsv.ceramics.org
>
> You may look at the archives for the list or change your subscription
> settings from http://www.ceramics.org/clayart/
>
> Moderator of the list is Mel Jacobson who may be reached at
melpots@pclink.com.
Etoain Shrdlu on sun 9 nov 03
At 09:49 AM 11/9/03 -0500, wayneinkeywest wrote:
>Leafing through the latest issue of the Harbor Freight catalog, I notice
>mini submersible fountain pumps.
>145 gpm, 1/2 inch output
>part number 45305-1BGB price of $7.49
Sounds like a real bargain, but do they have something a little less POWERFUL?!
>That might be what you're looking for, Chris.
For hydraulic mining, perhaps?! :-)
--Etoain Shrdlu
in Medford, Oregon
P.S. To all you guys who have taken to posting under pseudonyms (you know
who you are--Eleanor, Ole, Mudman--yeah, you guys). I'm a computer whiz
and can figure out who you are, and if you don't cut it out I'm gonna
report you to you-know-who. So there.
Jeremy McLeod on sun 9 nov 03
I've been getting my pumps from a newprint tabloid sized catalog put out by
Lou Davis Wholesale. If the online reference I found is correct, they can
be contacted at: Lou Davis Wholesale, N3211 County Road H, Lake Geneva, WI
53147
Tel. 262-248-4449, Fax: 262-248-8707.
Depending on which of three pump options one chooses and the quantity one
orders the prices are in the $6-8.50 range.
Jeremy McLeod
Barbara Francis on thu 14 dec 06
What is your opinion on a good pump for a table top fountain. I have made them in the past and had problems with some of them being noisy and thus defeating the purpose of the nice sound of running water. Any ideas about where to get the best one?
Thanks for the input.
Barb in Waco
"m.mshelomi" wrote:
To all who have sent advise and instructions on how to
mix plaster... THANK YOU!
I shall be buying a fresh bag of plaster and trying the
more forgiving method that has been so carefully and
clearly explained.
pottermim
______________________________________________________________________________
Send postings to clayart@lsv.ceramics.org
You may look at the archives for the list or change your subscription
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Moderator of the list is Mel Jacobson who may be reached at melpots@pclink.com.
---------------------------------
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Donald Burroughs on fri 15 dec 06
Barb
Little Giant pumps are the best in my opinion. Laguna also has a pump
line, but I don't have any experience with them.
Donald Burroughs
Gayle Bair on fri 15 dec 06
Barbara,
When I was making table fountains the best pump I found was
a brand called Little Giant. It was very quiet, reliable and had an
adjustable gph.
It looked like the one PES70-PW listed on this site
http://www.blowerwheel.com/pumps-small-submersible-1.htm
The price sure has increased... I used to pay $14 for them but that was
almost 10 years ago. I got them from a plumbing supply.
Gayle Bair
Bainbridge Island, WA
Tucson, AZ
www.claybair.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Barbara Francis
What is your opinion on a good pump for a table top fountain. I have made
them in the past and had problems with some of them being noisy and thus
defeating the purpose of the nice sound of running water. Any ideas about
where to get the best one?
Thanks for the input.
Barb in Waco
Barbara Francis on sat 16 dec 06
Gayle, Thanks so much for the information about the pumps, I will look them up. I had a terrible pottery day. Of course I am trying to make these fountains for Christmas and I am having problems. I am using Cinco Blanco clay and air-drying the fountains, which I am afraid may be some of my problems. Any suggestions out there for the best clay to use? I have had 2 crack already. I put the last one together competely with spooze, and also changed it somewhat structurally, but it still cracked. I am trying to copy one a customer had already, but it is giving me technical difficulties. The fountain has a big bowl to catch the water and then has a vertical piece which hides the pump in the back and also supports the decorative elements that are added to the front of the vertical piece. It is front heavy, and I tried to support it underneath with another slab. This one cracked more than the first one. I would really appreciate any advice out there. Obviously, this
won't be done in time for Christmas and I am sooo disappointed.
Barb
Gayle Bair wrote:
Barbara,
When I was making table fountains the best pump I found was
a brand called Little Giant. It was very quiet, reliable and had an
adjustable gph.
It looked like the one PES70-PW listed on this site
http://www.blowerwheel.com/pumps-small-submersible-1.htm
The price sure has increased... I used to pay $14 for them but that was
almost 10 years ago. I got them from a plumbing supply.
Gayle Bair
Bainbridge Island, WA
Tucson, AZ
www.claybair.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Barbara Francis
What is your opinion on a good pump for a table top fountain. I have made
them in the past and had problems with some of them being noisy and thus
defeating the purpose of the nice sound of running water. Any ideas about
where to get the best one?
Thanks for the input.
Barb in Waco
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Barbara Francis on sun 17 dec 06
Gayle, You are so right about commissions and about slow drying. I was just trying to squeeze too much in before Christmas and also trying hard to be the people pleaser that I am. Next time I will try to say No to getting something done so fast, especially something so complex and something I haven't made before. I figured the drying fast was part of my problem. I would have covered them in plastic if I had had more time. The slow drying and the possible change in clay will be my next strategy. I am thinking about using Raku clay because of all the grog in it. Thanks for the tip about using too much spooze,slip, magic water, etc. I am sure I was over-zealous about that too.
Much happiness for the holidays for all.
Barb
Gayle Bair wrote:
Hi Barb,
I am not familiar with the claybody you are using and not totally sure
what you mean by air-drying them. However I have learned the hard way
that if what you mean by "air-drying" you are leaving them exposed
you have now learned the lesson many of us have also learned.
You really cannot rush the drying especially if you have multiple
attachments and thickness. Make sure your attachments are the same
moisture content. Put all pieces together under plastic before attaching
them.
Again ....slow down on the drying. I now use a lidded clear plastic tub to
dry these type of pieces. I put a damp or wet sponge in there with the piece
which is also covered in lightweight plastic. I can really control the
drying with this system by using the lid or not, wetness of the sponge or
not a all, more or less plastic etc.
Someone (sorry I don't who) recently said she places handles on mugs and
lets them sit 10 minutes before attaching them. She said it evens out the
moisture... I haven't tried that yet. I have found that when I use too much
slip, spooze, magic water with paperclay or whatever I use for attachments
that using less of it
does a better job with less cracking at the joins.
Clay body wise I'd recommend one with grog perhaps a sculptural claybody.
BTW ....You have also learned why a lot of us discourage/shun commissions.
Years ago I had an interior decorator change my form & get really fussy
about color detail. Four months later after multiple revisions and firings I
delivered exactly what she wanted. After she looked at it and it was to her
exact specs
she admitted my design and advice was right and better. I didn't offer to
make another one. She paid me and I never saw her again. It was an $18 soap
dish! Yikes...
that was a lesson well learned!
Don't be to bummed out... your customer will understand............ this has
happened to the majority of us. It's a learning curve. If you are lucky it
only takes once... if you are stubborn (like me) and need Mel's 2x4 it
happens several times before you acknowledge the "whack" upside the head!
Best regards,
Gayle Bair
Bainbridge Island, WA
Tucson, AZ
www.claybair.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Barbara Francis
Gayle, Thanks so much for the information about the pumps, I will look them
up. I had a terrible pottery day. Of course I am trying to make these
fountains for Christmas and I am having problems. I am using Cinco Blanco
clay and air-drying the fountains, which I am afraid may be some of my
problems. Any suggestions out there for the best clay to use? I have had 2
crack already. I put the last one together competely with spooze, and also
changed it somewhat structurally, but it still cracked. I am trying to copy
one a customer had already, but it is giving me technical difficulties. The
fountain has a big bowl to catch the water and then has a vertical piece
which hides the pump in the back and also supports the decorative elements
that are added to the front of the vertical piece. It is front heavy, and I
tried to support it underneath with another slab. This one cracked more
than the first one. I would really appreciate any advice out there.
Obviously, this
won't be done in time for Christmas and I am sooo disappointed.
Barb
______________________________________________________________________________
Send postings to clayart@lsv.ceramics.org
You may look at the archives for the list or change your subscription
settings from http://www.ceramics.org/clayart/
Moderator of the list is Mel Jacobson who may be reached at melpots@pclink.com.
__________________________________________________
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Gayle Bair on sun 17 dec 06
Hi Barb,
I am not familiar with the claybody you are using and not totally sure
what you mean by air-drying them. However I have learned the hard way
that if what you mean by "air-drying" you are leaving them exposed
you have now learned the lesson many of us have also learned.
You really cannot rush the drying especially if you have multiple
attachments and thickness. Make sure your attachments are the same
moisture content. Put all pieces together under plastic before attaching
them.
Again ....slow down on the drying. I now use a lidded clear plastic tub to
dry these type of pieces. I put a damp or wet sponge in there with the piece
which is also covered in lightweight plastic. I can really control the
drying with this system by using the lid or not, wetness of the sponge or
not a all, more or less plastic etc.
Someone (sorry I don't who) recently said she places handles on mugs and
lets them sit 10 minutes before attaching them. She said it evens out the
moisture... I haven't tried that yet. I have found that when I use too much
slip, spooze, magic water with paperclay or whatever I use for attachments
that using less of it
does a better job with less cracking at the joins.
Clay body wise I'd recommend one with grog perhaps a sculptural claybody.
BTW ....You have also learned why a lot of us discourage/shun commissions.
Years ago I had an interior decorator change my form & get really fussy
about color detail. Four months later after multiple revisions and firings I
delivered exactly what she wanted. After she looked at it and it was to her
exact specs
she admitted my design and advice was right and better. I didn't offer to
make another one. She paid me and I never saw her again. It was an $18 soap
dish! Yikes...
that was a lesson well learned!
Don't be to bummed out... your customer will understand............ this has
happened to the majority of us. It's a learning curve. If you are lucky it
only takes once... if you are stubborn (like me) and need Mel's 2x4 it
happens several times before you acknowledge the "whack" upside the head!
Best regards,
Gayle Bair
Bainbridge Island, WA
Tucson, AZ
www.claybair.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Barbara Francis
Gayle, Thanks so much for the information about the pumps, I will look them
up. I had a terrible pottery day. Of course I am trying to make these
fountains for Christmas and I am having problems. I am using Cinco Blanco
clay and air-drying the fountains, which I am afraid may be some of my
problems. Any suggestions out there for the best clay to use? I have had 2
crack already. I put the last one together competely with spooze, and also
changed it somewhat structurally, but it still cracked. I am trying to copy
one a customer had already, but it is giving me technical difficulties. The
fountain has a big bowl to catch the water and then has a vertical piece
which hides the pump in the back and also supports the decorative elements
that are added to the front of the vertical piece. It is front heavy, and I
tried to support it underneath with another slab. This one cracked more
than the first one. I would really appreciate any advice out there.
Obviously, this
won't be done in time for Christmas and I am sooo disappointed.
Barb
Mayssan Shora Farra on mon 18 dec 06
Hello Barb:
May be this is a little late but I found them to have a good assortment ,
reasonable prices and great service. No relation or connection just a
satisfied customer:
http://crafters2000.stores.yahoo.net/pumps.html
They also sell misters for those that might be interested.
Good Luck
Mayssan
In unusaul spinglike weather. Is this global warming? Charleston, WV USA
http://www.clayvillepottery.com
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