Danny Bird on fri 26 sep 97
Does anyone have any strong feelings (good or bad) about lighting types
for a clay studio?
I am equipping a studio, and need some advice regarding any of these:
flourescent
incandescent
halogen
TIA
Birdboy -in northern Virginia where it's looking like rain.
Grimmer on sat 27 sep 97
Hi,
My new (old building) studio has flourescent tubes which are driving
me batty with their 60 Hz blink. Can't wait to rip them out and install
incandescent units.
steve grimmer
marion illinois
Karen Gringhuis on sat 27 sep 97
If you chose flourescent, you can use Vit-Lites which are quite
close to daylight - I like them & supposedly they're good for
your mood. Karen Gringhuis
Malissa D on sat 27 sep 97
Danny:
I have found some wonderful lighting. It's called Green Lights. It
installs like florescent but the light is just like daylight and it is
incredibly inexpensive to use. Each fixture cost approximately $25 per
year if you never turn it off. I purchased mine at Bright Side Lighting
of Texas. The guys name is Bill Deiterich. His phone is 512 756 5633
or e mail is gobsl@gobsl.com. Maybe he can tell you who to contact in
your area. It is the best artificial light I've ever used. Good luck.
Malissa D.
EarthWorks
Earth@tstar.net
Texas
Danny Bird wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Does anyone have any strong feelings (good or bad) about lighting types
> for a clay studio?
>
> I am equipping a studio, and need some advice regarding any of these:
> flourescent
> incandescent
> halogen
>
> TIA
> Birdboy -in northern Virginia where it's looking like rain.
Karen Ottenbreit on mon 29 sep 97
Hi,
In regards to studio lighting....
Working up here in the far north where the winters are long and dark, I
swear by flourescent lighting !
Even better than flourescent (IMHO) is Full Spectrum lighting. They are
spendy but are well worth it. I am just finishing up my own new studio and
have put in full spectrum over the main work areas and flourescent
everywhere else.
Full spectrum lights help greatly in preventing SAD (Seasonal Affective
Disorder which runs rampant in my household in the winter.)
Karen in the Kenai
wistfully watching summer come to a close.....
Margaret Arial on fri 10 oct 97
My electricians have all been death on halogen lights because of fire danger
due to the heat they generate but they do have a clear clean sparkly effect
on work in a display that puts pizzaz into a display. when i was a partner in
a local gallery we used them to accent work especially the window display.
they are expensive to buy,are not particularly loing lived and costly to
operate.
margaret
in the wee hours
eden@sover.net on thu 14 oct 99
Somehow I am not finding much on this in my files and not having success
with archives this time. I am about to invest in studio lighting. Am
leaning toward going with something like 6' double bulb fluorescent
fixtures, thinking that 2 to each 10x12' quadrant will be plenty and
wondering if that is overkill. That also leaves an 8' perimeter that will
need fixtures too. Anybody got thumbnail specs for figuring coverage?
Also figuring on going with some kind of daylight-type fluorescent tubes.
There was one message in my files about Green bulbs from Texas or
someplace. Figure I am not trying to grow a garden, is that what those
are for? Graingers has a no shipping charge sale right now so am wanting
to make these decisions.
Any insights will be appreciated.
Eleanora.....trying to get this stuff out into cyberspace before the
computer gets packed away for afew days.....my hubby will be chafing at the
downtime.......
............
Eleanora Eden 802 869-2003
Paradise Hill
Bellows Falls, VT 05101 eden@sover.net
Frank M. Gaydos on fri 15 oct 99
There are different types of lighting for color correctness. Using ordinary
bulbs will make your colors look different from inside to outside (sun) .
The color corrected bulbs are more expensive but give a truer reading if
that is important to you. If there is no source of outside light in your
studio I would make the investment.
Frank Gaydos
Subject: studio lighting
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Somehow I am not finding much on this in my files and not having success
> with archives this time. I am about to invest in studio lighting. Am
> leaning toward going with something like 6' double bulb fluorescent
> fixtures, thinking that 2 to each 10x12' quadrant will be plenty and
> wondering if that is overkill. That also leaves an 8' perimeter that will
> need fixtures too. Anybody got thumbnail specs for figuring coverage?
> Also figuring on going with some kind of daylight-type fluorescent tubes.
> There was one message in my files about Green bulbs from Texas or
> someplace. Figure I am not trying to grow a garden, is that what those
> are for? Graingers has a no shipping charge sale right now so am wanting
> to make these decisions.
>
> Any insights will be appreciated.
>
> Eleanora.....trying to get this stuff out into cyberspace before the
> computer gets packed away for afew days.....my hubby will be chafing at
the
> downtime.......
>
> ............
> Eleanora Eden 802 869-2003
> Paradise Hill
> Bellows Falls, VT 05101 eden@sover.net
>
Susan Schultz on fri 15 oct 99
In a message dated 10/14/99 1:18:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time, eden@sover.net
writes:
<< Also figuring on going with some kind of daylight-type fluorescent tubes.
There was one message in my files about Green bulbs from Texas or
someplace. Figure I am not trying to grow a garden, is that what those
are for? Graingers has a no shipping charge sale right now so am wanting
to make these decisions.
>>
Eleanora,
I switched from regular 6' fluorescent bulbs to "full-spectrum" type
bulbs. I get them by the case from an electrical supply store. It makes
the lighting more like daylight, not so harsh and cold, and really makes a
difference when you work at night. They are more expensive, but I feel
there're worth it. Colors seem more true to me.
Susan
Ray Aldridge on fri 15 oct 99
At 01:17 PM 10/14/99 EDT, you wrote:
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Somehow I am not finding much on this in my files and not having success
>with archives this time. I am about to invest in studio lighting. Am
>leaning toward going with something like 6' double bulb fluorescent
>fixtures, thinking that 2 to each 10x12' quadrant will be plenty and
>wondering if that is overkill. That also leaves an 8' perimeter that will
>need fixtures too. Anybody got thumbnail specs for figuring coverage?
>Also figuring on going with some kind of daylight-type fluorescent tubes.
>There was one message in my files about Green bulbs from Texas or
>someplace. Figure I am not trying to grow a garden, is that what those
>are for? Graingers has a no shipping charge sale right now so am wanting
>to make these decisions.
>
Just a data point, but I have a small studio and the 8' double bulb fixture
in the kiln and glazing room seems to require a lot fewer bulb changes than
the 4' double bulb shoplites I have in the throwing area.
As an aside, I hope you've made provision for as much natural light as
possible, though it's very hard to get useful light to the back of a 20'
wide room if there are only windows on one side. Not to beat the Pattern
Language horse to death, but he says (and I believe him) that you can't be
happy working in an area with insufficient natural light. A couple days
ago I read a wire service story about a study that showed students score
much higher on standard achievement tests if they have adequate natural
light. I think that can easily be extrapolated to creative work-- how much
is a 20% increase in mental abilities worth to an artist?
I know that I did my worst work when I had a studio in a dark basement, and
that was where I went astray, decided I needed another profession, and
relegated pot-making to an occasional dabble for many years. It's odd to
think that if I had had adequate lighting, I might be a much more advanced
potter today. But on such apparently small events do great life-changes
sometimes hinge.
Ray
Aldridge Porcelain and Stoneware
http://www.goodpots.com
Nanci Bishof on fri 15 oct 99
Eleanora,
The six foot bulb have a double pin that must be twisted into place. It can
be a bit of a bear to get correctly aligned. Eight foot fixtures have a one
pin contact that simply slips into the socket. Check with Home Depot. The way
we balanced the fluorescent lighting at the university was to have one cool &
one warm fluorescent bulb in each fixture rather than pay the cost of
daylight bulbs.
Happy hunting,
nanci
Jim Cullen on fri 15 oct 99
My studio is 10' x 14', I'm using 4-48" double tube fixures. I bought the
cheap ~$8.00 shop fixtures (no bulbs). The next fixture up the line have pull
chains, not a bad idea unless you have wall switches to turn them on and off.
mine plug into overhead light sockets and I have pull chains on the sockets.
Not the best plan, but it works. What I did notice is that cheap bulbs give
you BAD light. BAD colors and BAD moods.
I shopped around and found, what I consider the best light available.
GE SUNSHINE Full Spectrum Light
48"
40 Watts
20,000 hr. bulb life
2,250 initial lumens
5,000 degrees Kelvin color temperature
Simulate noonday summer sun
Ideal for color critical areas or where sunlight is at a minimum.
Good lighting is really essential when you're trying to evaluate glazes and
colors.
I got my bulbs at Home Depot ~$9.00 each. Saw the same thing at ACE for
~$15.00
I don't know if really need 6 footers. More lights and shorter may give you
more control. Just a consideration.
Best of luck and remember, build lots of shelves.
KEEP CENTERED
Cullen
Naperville, Illinois
Linda Blossom on fri 15 oct 99
I found 4' plant and aquarium bulbs at Kmart. They were very reasonably
priced.
Linda Blossom
2366 Slaterville Rd
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-539-7912
blossom@twcny.rr.com
-----Original Message-----
From: eden@sover.net
To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
Date: Thursday, October 14, 1999 1:17 PM
Subject: studio lighting
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
Somehow I am not finding much on this in my files and not having success
with archives this time. I am about to invest in studio lighting. Am
leaning toward going with something like 6' double bulb fluorescent
fixtures, thinking that 2 to each 10x12' quadrant will be plenty and
wondering if that is overkill. That also leaves an 8' perimeter that will
need fixtures too. Anybody got thumbnail specs for figuring coverage?
Also figuring on going with some kind of daylight-type fluorescent tubes.
There was one message in my files about Green bulbs from Texas or
someplace. Figure I am not trying to grow a garden, is that what those
are for? Graingers has a no shipping charge sale right now so am wanting
to make these decisions.
Any insights will be appreciated.
Eleanora.....trying to get this stuff out into cyberspace before the
computer gets packed away for afew days.....my hubby will be chafing at the
downtime.......
............
Eleanora Eden 802 869-2003
Paradise Hill
Bellows Falls, VT 05101 eden@sover.net
Kenneth D. Westfall on fri 15 oct 99
I would think 8' light fixtures would be a much better chose but you may
also want to think about using 240 volt ballast if you don't think you will
be turning them off and on each time you go from one room to another. You
can cut the cost of running wiring for all the lights because your using
smaller gage wire and it cut the over all load on your shop. That of
coarse depends on if you have 240/110 volts service coming in to the
studio. Just a thought. You still use the same tubes for the lights it is
just a different ballast.
Kenneth D. Westfall
Pine Hill Pottery
R.D. #2 Box 6AA
Harrisville, WV 26362
pinehill@ruralnet.org
http://www.ruralnet.org/pinehillpottery
Cindy Strnad, Earthen Vessels Pottery on fri 15 oct 99
I don't see where it's so important to get a reading of your colors in
"daylight" unless you're going to be selling in open air. Most businesses
and homes will have artificial light of one type or another which does *not*
simulate daylight. That is the light your work will be seen in most often,
and the light under which it should look its best.
On the other hand, most glazes will be what they are and if you have an
attractive glaze, it will look nice under any adequate light source. Your
own well-being is another matter. If you're one of those who suffer from the
winter blues, nothing could be a better investment than the somewhat more
expensive "daylight" fixtures. A good lighting fixture store will have
experts to explain all this far better than I could. Not sure of the
difference between "green" lamps and "daylight" lamps, but I believe there
is a difference.
Wishing you well in your new space,
Cindy Strnad
Earthen Vessels Pottery
Custer, SD
Wendy Hampton on fri 15 oct 99
Hi,
I have 4' long florescent double tube lights. They are spaced out about
every 8' x 6' areas. I have a total of 10. I use the daylight bulbs and the
light is great. Very bright and you can see glazes and your work well. The
only problem I have found is that the fixtures buzz. This is caused by the
ballast but I don't know how to stop it. If you are sensitive to noise I
would recommend you rethink using florescent fixtures. I did not get the
least expensive either.
Good luck
Wendy
Rod, Marian, and Holly Morris on sat 16 oct 99
I have a similar set-up, and yes, I didn't get the cheapest, and yes, mine
buzz terribly and flicker if the temp is below 60. I would never get this
kind again. For one thing, flourescents flicker at a sub-detectable level,
and besides that, the noise exhausts your brain trying to tune it out (yes,
inhibition requires nueron firing). The upside is cost to operate.
equivalent incadescent lighting would be VERY expensive. I think I'm going
to make some adjustments by adding local incadescents over my work table, so
that I don't have to have the buzzers on all the time.
----- Original Message -----
From: Wendy Hampton
To:
Sent: Friday, October 15, 1999 5:14 PM
Subject: Re: studio lighting
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Hi,
> I have 4' long florescent double tube lights. They are spaced out about
> every 8' x 6' areas. I have a total of 10. I use the daylight bulbs and
the
> light is great. Very bright and you can see glazes and your work well.
The
> only problem I have found is that the fixtures buzz. This is caused by
the
> ballast but I don't know how to stop it. If you are sensitive to noise I
> would recommend you rethink using florescent fixtures. I did not get the
> least expensive either.
> Good luck
> Wendy
>
eden@sover.net on sun 17 oct 99
I very much appreciate all the hints and am keeping track. I like the idea
of a cool and a warm in each fixture. I am especially worried about the
buzzing as I am very sensitive to that kind of distraction. If any among
you has fluorescent fixtures that don't buzz perhaps you'd share the
particulars......
Eleanora
.............
Eleanora Eden 802 869-2003
Paradise Hill
Bellows Falls, VT 05101 eden@sover.net
Fredrick Paget on sun 17 oct 99
Florescent ballasts are sound rated. There is a sound rating something like
A, B,and C. I don't remember it too well as it is 15 years since I
retired from the lighting business.
You must have gotten a fixture with the noisier type that are designed for
places where there is a lot of other noise. They are cheap.
The best ones won't be audible.
There are electronic ballasts that run the light at a higher frequency also
and do not have the noisy magnetic components at all.
You need to take apart the fixtures and change the ballasts.
ClayArters buying new fixtures should pay attention to this sound rating. A
studio is (or should be) a quiet place.
I got the cheap 8 foot fixtures for my studio at Home Depot and they are
noisy but I
have the advantage that I can just turn off my hearing aids and it doesn't
bother me.
Fred Paget
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Hi,
> I have 4' long florescent double tube lights. They are spaced out about
> every 8' x 6' areas. I have a total of 10. I use the daylight bulbs and
>the
> light is great. Very bright and you can see glazes and your work well.
>The
> only problem I have found is that the fixtures buzz. This is caused by
>the
> ballast but I don't know how to stop it. If you are sensitive to noise I
> would recommend you rethink using florescent fixtures. I did not get the
> least expensive either.
> Good luck
> Wendy
>From Fred Paget, Marin County, California, USA
Kenneth D. Westfall on sun 17 oct 99
Wendy it sounds like you bought the wrong ballast. You need to be careful
when shopping for florescent lights to check on the sound rating. Light
used in warehouse are noising but with all the other noise who cares about
the lights buzzing. Ones for offices are made to have less buzzing noise
but even they are not prefect. There are those people that are very
sensitive to any noise in the range that the ballast makes so no ballast
type light ficture is going to work.
At 05:14 PM 10/15/1999 EDT, you wrote:
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Hi,
>I have 4' long florescent double tube lights. They are spaced out about
>every 8' x 6' areas. I have a total of 10. I use the daylight bulbs and the
>light is great. Very bright and you can see glazes and your work well. The
>only problem I have found is that the fixtures buzz. This is caused by the
>ballast but I don't know how to stop it. If you are sensitive to noise I
>would recommend you rethink using florescent fixtures. I did not get the
>least expensive either.
>Good luck
>Wendy
>
Kenneth D. Westfall
Pine Hill Pottery
R.D. #2 Box 6AA
Harrisville, WV 26362
pinehill@ruralnet.org
http://www.ruralnet.org/pinehillpottery
Sheron Roberts on sun 17 oct 99
------------------
I too use fluorescent fixtures in my
studio. I believe they are
about 10 feet long and there are
two fixtures with 2 bulbs/tubes
each. I also have large windows
that let in the sunlight so during the
day I seldom have to use the
fluorescent lights. My ceiling is
from the floor to the center beam
30 feet, and the lights are suspended
about ten feet from the top. A guy at
Lowe's figured out the lighting requirements
based on the size of the studio and height
of the ceiling.
The buzzing was unbelievable.
But I just tune mine out
with music. Usually I have the
radio set to NPR, the commentaries,
operas and music do a good job
of masking the buzz.
Sheron in NC where Hurricane Irene
is visiting today. (anyone know how
to make a canoe?)
Randall Moody on mon 18 oct 99
I recently spied a 4 foot long halogen work light. I believe it ran at about
300 watts. It would probably put out more heat but for whiter, brighter
light I think this would be hard to beat. The cost was somewhere around
$30.00 US.
>The upside is cost to operate.
> equivalent incandescent lighting would be VERY expensive. I think I'm
going
> to make some adjustments by adding local incandescence over my work table,
so
> that I don't have to have the buzzers on all the time.
Linda Leighton on tue 19 oct 99
A year ago I renovated a 1920's building for studio space. The room is about
15' wide by 34' long, with an 11' ceiling. I installed 8 fluorescent
fixtures, each 1' x 4', on 2' suspension stems, in this pattern (let's see if
I can sort of draw it):
xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx
xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx
|<------------ 34' --------------->|
We have a very good amount of natural light so mornings I don't always use
these or use all 8 (I have them on 4 switches). The lighting at night is
very good. We don't need any additional task lighting in the studio.
I've been very happy with this lighting, which is good since I spent ALOT of
my budget on it. (I'm a light freak.) They do not make any noise at all and
come on instantly like incandescents do. Fluorescents are very
energy-effecient (whereas halogens are kind of energy hogs). The "color
rendering index" of the bulbs I chose is 85, which is high. They're 3500
degree Kelvin bulbs, made by Phillips.
The fixtures are by Metalux, two-bulb, 1'x4', louvered, with electronic
ballasts. (I understand the much cheaper fluorescent fixtures that make
noise have magnetic ballasts.) The louvered cover (on the lower side that
you can see when you look up) was an important feature for me. As I
remember, its supposed to minimize glare and to help spread the light out.
These babies cost about $150 each (versus the $14 cheapo fixtures I got for
the basement!) Fortunately, the bulbs were only $4 each, and I haven't
replaced any yet in a year's time.
Good luck!
Linda
Higher Fire Clay Studio
Madison, WI
L2Leighton@aol.com
Janet Kaiser on tue 19 oct 99
------------------
I use a halogen low voltage (12V) system which is great because it is so
flexible and can be changed as I move work areas and exhibition shelves from
time to time. A transformer is wired in on the wall and two parallel =22tram
lines=22 are stretched tight across to the opposite wall. Maximum =
recommended
length is 5 meters.
Lamps are clamped onto the lines and depending on the fixture, these are =
movable
in all directions.
The total wattage on this transformer is 300 watts so I can choose the
combination of bulbs: either six 50W=3B ten 30W=3B four 50W and four 25W, =
etc.
Always making sure the combination equals 300W. The 50W get really hot and =
melt
the fixtures every now and then.
Not only can I vary the wattage but also the type of bulb from spot (20 =
degrees)
to general light. I have found that the cheaper bulbs are not very good. =
Their
idea of =22daylight=22 is very strange... From definite pink to very harsh
blue-white.
Drawbacks:
You do need quite a bit of head room. These lines are live (albeit only 12V)=
if
they are too low tall people and those who tend to throw their arms about
talking are in trouble.
They generate quite a bit of heat.
Spiders love them and festoon the lines and lamps with cobwebs, specially =
this
time of year.
Janet Kaiser
The Chapel of Art, Criccieth LL52 0EA, GB-Wales
Home of The International Potters Path
WEB: http://www.the-coa.org.uk
EMAIL: postbox=40the-coa.org.uk
Linda Leighton on tue 19 oct 99
A year ago I renovated a 1920's building for studio space. The room is about
15' wide by 34' long, with an 11' ceiling. I installed 8 fluorescent
fixtures, each 1' x 4', on 2' suspension stems, in this pattern (let's see if
I can sort of draw it):
xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx
xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx
|<------------ 34' --------------->|
We have a very good amount of natural light so mornings I don't always use
these or use all 8 (I have them on 4 switches). The lighting at night is
very good. We don't need any additional task lighting in the studio.
I've been very happy with this lighting, which is good since I spent ALOT of
my budget on it. (I'm a light freak.) They do not make any noise at all and
come on instantly like incandescents do. Fluorescents are very
energy-effecient (whereas halogens are kind of energy hogs). The "color
rendering index" of the bulbs I chose is 85, which is high. They're 3500
degree Kelvin bulbs, made by Phillips.
The fixtures are by Metalux, two-bulb, 1'x4', louvered, with electronic
ballasts. (I understand the much cheaper fluorescent fixtures that make
noise have magnetic ballasts.) The louvered cover (on the lower side that
you can see when you look up) was an important feature for me. As I
remember, its supposed to minimize glare and to help spread the light out.
These babies cost about $150 each (versus the $14 cheapo fixtures I got for
the basement!) Fortunately, the bulbs were only $4 each, and I haven't
replaced any yet in a year's time.
Good luck!
Linda
Higher Fire Clay Studio
Madison, WI
L2Leighton@aol.com
Katie Cordrey on sun 24 oct 99
We just finished our shop and installed flush mount fluorescent ceiling
fixtures. The building is 24 x 36 with a vaulted ceiling and we used six,
four equally spaced the length of the building along one side of the ceiling
and two opposing at one end. There is a wall at the other end so we couldn't
install them there. Each fixture holds four bulbs. We use full spectrum
bulbs because they best imitate natural light. The type is T-8, no buzzing,
no flickering, no transformer, instant on even in freezing temperatures, no
computer interference, (though I have noticed some cordless phone buzz.)
There is PLENTY of light. Energy consumption is about 30% less than standard
fluorescent lighting. The fixtures were about $70 each at Home Depot
compared to $40 each for comparable conventional fluorescent fixtures. We
calculated that the increased energy savings gives us break-even at about
two years. From that point on, it's money in our pocket!
Katie
-----Original Message-----
From: Ceramic Arts Discussion List [mailto:CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU]On Behalf
Of eden@sover.net
Sent: Sunday, October 17, 1999 9:12 AM
To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
Subject: studio lighting
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
I very much appreciate all the hints and am keeping track. I like the idea
of a cool and a warm in each fixture. I am especially worried about the
buzzing as I am very sensitive to that kind of distraction. If any among
you has fluorescent fixtures that don't buzz perhaps you'd share the
particulars......
Eleanora
.............
Eleanora Eden 802 869-2003
Paradise Hill
Bellows Falls, VT 05101 eden@sover.net
Joyce Lee on sun 16 dec 01
Thank you to Milton, also one of our rural Mojave denizens, and to so =
many of you who gave a variety of suggestions for my lighting concerns. =
Fate, history, life has brought us to the place where #1 Support Person =
can no longer climb ladders, hold arms over head for any period of time =
nor depend on a reasonable mobility etc ... I am fully capable of making =
these moves.... but it bothers him too much to see me having to more or =
less "take over" the "manly chores"....... (his perspectives, not mine).
This is going around the barn to say that
our electrician friend was here last night and installed the latest =
rectangular fluorescent lights ..... ours were over 30 years old ..... =
the new ones use half the electricity to give at least double the light =
(seems like more) ..... AND the ghastly noise which emanated from one of =
the old fixtures has been eliminated! Hooray. The bulbs are easy to =
push&pull in&out ... very easy. We even found that the studio is well =
lighted without two of the fixtures he'd planned to install.
The List should now have enough Studio Lighting info in the archives to =
satisfy all new inquiries..... from the most sophisticated lighting =
plans to stringing white holiday lights low above work areas. Each =
suggestion works for some claybud somewhere. Such generosity to take =
the time to post them!
Joyce
In the Mojave where it's crispy cold ..... 38=BA F at the moment ... and =
NO wind ... I may fire the kilns that have been loaded for days, waiting =
for the wind to pause longer than an hour..... think I'll plan to fire =
New Year's day again this year. That was such fun to have so many of us =
firing for the millennium change ... to think of claybuds out there in =
all kinds of weather, climates, locations firing as I fired .... warm, =
friendly feelings.... good way to begin then...... and maybe now....
how can it be bad? Pyromaniacs Rule!!
Elca Branman on sun 16 dec 01
Did no one warn you about being able to see your own work away from the
gentling touch of dim light ?..Every little pimple becomes a mountain,
and your usually cheerful epistles stand the chance of becoming gloomy
tales ending with nature red in tooth and nail.
Wearing sunglasses indoors MIGHT restore you to your normally cheery
self, should these dire predictions take place.
Elca, who always removes her specs before viewing her own work.
On Sun, 16 Dec 2001 10:04:20 -0800 Joyce Lee
writes:
>
> our electrician friend was here last night and installed the latest
> =
> rectangular fluorescent lights .....
> ..... =
> the new ones use half the electricity to give at least double the
> light =
> (seems like more) .....
> =
>
>
_________________________________________________________________________
_____
> 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.
Elca Branman.. in Sarasota,Florida,USA
elcab1@juno.com
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claybair on sat 13 dec 03
My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
When selecting lighting for my house and studio
I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
My studio is in the garage and has a high ceiling 15 to 17ft.
Thanks,
Gayle Bair
Bainbridge Island, WA
http://claybair.com
Hank Murrow on sun 14 dec 03
On Dec 13, 2003, at 8:04 PM, claybair wrote:
> My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
> I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
> When selecting lighting for my house and studio
> I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
> Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
> and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
> I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
> My studio is in the garage and has a high ceiling 15 to 17ft.
Dear Gail;
I started potting at the U of Oregon in '58, and the lights were large
industrial shades hanging from a 18" ceiling with 300W bulbs in them.
The lighting was strongish and produced good shadows with ok fill. I
found the light wonderful to work under as it revealed the form as I
was working. When the shop was relocated across the Millrace, the
lighting changed to fluoprescent and the shadows were gone, and
replaced by noise. Couldn't see the form for beans, and it is still
that way some 35 years later.
In my own studio, I have a mixture of halogen floods and PAR 30 & 40
bulbs in 130V rating. They last forever, even though the average
voltage here is 124V. Pools of light on my tables and good enough to
work anywhere.
Cheers, Hank
Carl Finch on sun 14 dec 03
At 08:04 PM 12/13/03 -0800, claybair wrote:
>My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
>I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
>When selecting lighting for my house and studio
>I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
>Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
>and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
>Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
>I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
If you say so! :-)
I have installed 8-foot, low-temp, high output fluorescents (110 watts per
tube) in my studio. They provide the super-bright light I desire, and come
on instantly to full brightness in cold weather.
After 30 years of dim, flickering, slow-or-never-to-warm-up, 4-foot,
40-watters in my garage, I love 'em!
And, yes, they do buzz a bit, though it's not a problem for me. I'm really
good at tuning out 'extraneous' sounds--just ask my wife!
But, I'm told that *electronic* ballasts ARE quiet. I assume they're more
expensive and I don't know about their low-temp or high output
abilities. Nor do I know *how* quiet they are.
Just something you might look into before discarding any idea of fluorescents.
--Carl
in Medford, Oregon
Bonnie/Jeremy Hellman on sun 14 dec 03
Mine are the electronic ballast type and they are as quiet as incandescents.
Bonnie
----- Original Message -----
From: "Carl Finch"
To:
Sent: Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:13 PM
Subject: Re: Studio lighting
> At 08:04 PM 12/13/03 -0800, claybair wrote:
> >My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
> >I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
> >When selecting lighting for my house and studio
> >I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
> >Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
> >and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
> >Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
> >I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
>
> If you say so! :-)
>
> I have installed 8-foot, low-temp, high output fluorescents (110 watts per
> tube) in my studio. They provide the super-bright light I desire, and
come
> on instantly to full brightness in cold weather.
>
> After 30 years of dim, flickering, slow-or-never-to-warm-up, 4-foot,
> 40-watters in my garage, I love 'em!
>
> And, yes, they do buzz a bit, though it's not a problem for me. I'm
really
> good at tuning out 'extraneous' sounds--just ask my wife!
>
> But, I'm told that *electronic* ballasts ARE quiet. I assume they're more
> expensive and I don't know about their low-temp or high output
> abilities. Nor do I know *how* quiet they are.
>
> Just something you might look into before discarding any idea of
fluorescents.
>
> --Carl
> in Medford, Oregon
>
>
____________________________________________________________________________
__
> 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.
Earl Krueger on sun 14 dec 03
On Saturday, Dec 13, 2003, at 20:04 US/Pacific, claybair wrote:
> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
Ya-all gotta excuse Gayle a little bit here. Ya-see, this time of year
in Washington state light only comes in one color - Kodak Gray. People
get a little bit testy. I wish we would get some snow to lighten
things up.
Gayle,
Track lights -
Easy to install.
Easy to put light where you need it.
If halogen -
Bright white light.
Points of intense light in peripheral vision bother me.
Less efficient than fluorescent.
More efficient than regular incandescent.
Recessed can lights -
More difficult to install.
Not adjustable. Installation needs planning.
Otherwise, same as above.
Coleman lanterns (not as in Tom) -
Smelly if white gasoline.
Hiss.
Require maintenance (pumping).
Candles -
Flutter can be disturbing.
Very warm light.
Can be smoky.
Limited light output.
Potential for aroma therapy while you work.
Flash lights -
Batteries expensive.
Highly directional.
Only leaves one hand available for work.
Not environmentally friendly.
If you are going to do some re-wiring consider multiple lighting
circuits/switches so you can only light the area you are going to be
working in. May save enough on electricity to make up for less
efficient fixtures.
Earl...
Bothell, WA, USA
Vicki Hardin on sun 14 dec 03
This won't help the humming, but for the people that will not be getting =
rid of their flourescent lights for whatever reason, this might be =
helpful. A few years ago I was working in a room with flourescents as =
the only light source. Before this, I had moved from a room with mixed =
light, a window and flourescents. The glare was harsh and I was getting =
headaches from trying to read with two flourescent lights right over my =
desk. I saw an opthalmologist thinking I needed glasses and he asked =
about the lighting which he indicated he thought might be the problem. =
This is when I learned that there are different flourescent bulbs and =
one that approximates daylight. There was a huge difference in the =
glare when the lights were switched to what they called a daylight bulb. =
Althought more expensive, they were well worth it.
Vicki Hardin
ClayArtWebGuide.com
Donald G. Goldsobel on sun 14 dec 03
I have had florescent lights in three different locations over the years and
I never had the buzzing. I've heard it in some stores, but never in ballast
started fixtures. Some of the fixtures that use starters may buzz. What kind
do you have?
My personal preference is florescent for overall lighting with a clamp on
regular light bulb to cast some shadows so I can see the real surface of the
pot-especially bowls when I want that perfect curve.
I might add an observation that canned spotlights are gooed but produce a
lot of heat and the bulbs have to be the right color.
Good luck
Donald
- Original Message -----
From: "claybair"
To:
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2003 8:04 PM
Subject: Studio lighting
> My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
> I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
> When selecting lighting for my house and studio
> I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
> Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
> and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
> I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
> My studio is in the garage and has a high ceiling 15 to 17ft.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Gayle Bair
> Bainbridge Island, WA
> http://claybair.com
>
>
____________________________________________________________________________
__
> 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.
nancy patterson on sun 14 dec 03
Hey Gayle,
Your website looks great.
Beautiful work!
Love the lidded vessels, especially the top two
Sagger fired-cold glazed.
What kind of stops do you use for the salt/spice shakers?
and about the lighting...
I hate florescent lights!
and read an article a number of years back
that florescent lighting is cheaper, but not
healthier... it is not a constant light it is actually
flickering and can cause headaches in people.
(I'm sure one of those science folks will chime in with
a better explanation) A survey was done and people who work in offices
with florescent light have more sick days than people working under
incandescent and other. If you are sensitive to lights and they mean a lot
to you I have invested in some full spectrum light bulbs that supposedly
replicate natural light...I don't think they do that, but they are very
soothing. I have no windows in my studio so I have been using these bulbs
for years and when I run out I feel the difference.
and I=B9d go with the track lighting.
happy holidaze
nancy
On 12/14/03 3:26 PM, "Earl Krueger" wrote:
> On Saturday, Dec 13, 2003, at 20:04 US/Pacific, claybair wrote:
>=20
>> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
>=20
> Ya-all gotta excuse Gayle a little bit here. Ya-see, this time of year
> in Washington state light only comes in one color - Kodak Gray. People
> get a little bit testy. I wish we would get some snow to lighten
> things up.
>=20
> Gayle,
>=20
> Track lights -
> Easy to install.
> Easy to put light where you need it.
> If halogen -
> Bright white light.
> Points of intense light in peripheral vision bother me.
> Less efficient than fluorescent.
> More efficient than regular incandescent.
>=20
> Recessed can lights -
> More difficult to install.
> Not adjustable. Installation needs planning.
> Otherwise, same as above.
>=20
> Coleman lanterns (not as in Tom) -
> Smelly if white gasoline.
> Hiss.
> Require maintenance (pumping).
>=20
> Candles -
> Flutter can be disturbing.
> Very warm light.
> Can be smoky.
> Limited light output.
> Potential for aroma therapy while you work.
>=20
> Flash lights -
> Batteries expensive.
> Highly directional.
> Only leaves one hand available for work.
> Not environmentally friendly.
>=20
> If you are going to do some re-wiring consider multiple lighting
> circuits/switches so you can only light the area you are going to be
> working in. May save enough on electricity to make up for less
> efficient fixtures.
>=20
> Earl...
> Bothell, WA, USA
>=20
> _________________________________________________________________________=
_____
> Send postings to clayart@lsv.ceramics.org
>=20
> You may look at the archives for the list or change your subscription
> settings from http://www.ceramics.org/clayart/
>=20
> Moderator of the list is Mel Jacobson who may be reached at
> melpots@pclink.com.
Phil Smith on sun 14 dec 03
Dear Gayle,
The magnetic ballasts operate at 60 cycles per second and
are percieved to flicker. They can also physically vibrate causing
an audible hum.
The solid state "electronic" ballasts operate at 24,000 cylcles per sec.
eliminating the flicker. Solid state ballasts do not have the loud humming
which you so despise.
There are full spectrum tubes known as "Vita-Lite". which will approximate
natural light. I believe the color temp is around 5500.
The wiring for the electronic ballasts may have to be upgraded.
You may want to consult with a lighting professional.
Phil...
ASHPOTS@AOL.COM on sun 14 dec 03
The buzz is because of the ballasts,,, when i build my studio and lots of
flouresent lights the noise drove me nuts,, im still nuts but i went to Loews
where i bought the fixtures and one of the managers came out to hear the
noise.... He agreed it was to noisy ... It turns out that there are at least 3 types
of ballasts... The more you spend the quieter they are... Loews got quiet
ballasts and 2 managers came and changed them...
When ever i go to Loews i allways see Jeff & Chuck,,, good guys,
Just finished the Georgia Clay Council Sale and kiln opening... what fun and
we did well,, every one has gone home...
Mark
www.lookoutmountainpottery.com
ASHPOTS@AOL.COM on sun 14 dec 03
Also ,,, i use day light bulbs ,, love the light
Mark
claybair on sun 14 dec 03
Hi Nancy,
Thanks for the complements on the work and web site..
I must update it...
the saggar fired pieces were cold glazed with my husband's shoe polish...
I loved the look and them smelled great!
No stops on the salt shakers.. They are double walled..
see Dannon Rhudy's article.... ack.... don't remember which
issue or mag... I think it was Clay Times... Dannon you out there???
They are a great seller though I decided to give them a rest this season
and don't-cha-know I had people asking for them. I also saw them in my
local upscalish grocery store mass produced in China for $25.+ each!!!! OYE!
I do have use daylight florescent and have 2 windows but still have the
buzzing.
No wonder I blast the CD player!
The ceilings are too high for track lighting..
I'd never be able to reach them.
I think I am going to investigate the industrial lighting fixtures that Dale
Neese
suggested. Plus if I can get the ones that I can pull down and retract...
that may just be the ticket.
Gayle Bair- resorting to wearing bright colors in Washington State's Kodak
Grey environ. Looking forward to summer when it's 10 pm and still light
out!!!
Bainbridge Island, WA
http://claybair.com
-----Original Message-----
From:nancy patterson
Hey Gayle,
Your website looks great.
Beautiful work!
Love the lidded vessels, especially the top two
Sagger fired-cold glazed.
What kind of stops do you use for the salt/spice shakers?
and about the lighting...
I hate florescent lights!
and read an article a number of years back
that florescent lighting is cheaper, but not
healthier... it is not a constant light it is actually
flickering and can cause headaches in people.
(I'm sure one of those science folks will chime in with
a better explanation) A survey was done and people who work in offices
with florescent light have more sick days than people working under
incandescent and other. If you are sensitive to lights and they mean a lot
to you I have invested in some full spectrum light bulbs that supposedly
replicate natural light...I don't think they do that, but they are very
soothing. I have no windows in my studio so I have been using these bulbs
for years and when I run out I feel the difference.
and Iąd go with the track lighting.
happy holidaze
nancy
On 12/14/03 3:26 PM, "Earl Krueger" wrote:
> On Saturday, Dec 13, 2003, at 20:04 US/Pacific, claybair wrote:
>
>> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
>
> Ya-all gotta excuse Gayle a little bit here. Ya-see, this time of year
> in Washington state light only comes in one color - Kodak Gray. People
> get a little bit testy. I wish we would get some snow to lighten
> things up.
>
> Gayle,
>
> Track lights -
> Easy to install.
> Easy to put light where you need it.
> If halogen -
> Bright white light.
> Points of intense light in peripheral vision bother me.
> Less efficient than fluorescent.
> More efficient than regular incandescent.
>
> Recessed can lights -
> More difficult to install.
> Not adjustable. Installation needs planning.
> Otherwise, same as above.
>
Snip<>
> Earl...
> Bothell, WA, USA
>
Frank Bales on sun 14 dec 03
Gayle, here's some information about fluorescent lighting. It looks to me
like it might be your ballasts making the noise. Electronic ballasts are
supposed to be noiseless.
http://www.eweb.org/energy/energysmart/edb/0011/lighting.html
FrankB
Janet Kaiser on mon 15 dec 03
Gayle, my love, I do not think the Northern Lights would be your
answer, especially as you have to trudge out in the snow to see
them, so you stay in the nice warm west! LOL :o)
Seriously, fluorescent can be noisy, especially as they age. I
don't know why, but when we put them into the backroom of the
Chapel it was much against my better judgement because I hate
that humming too. Anyway, the electrician assured me that the
modern ones do not hum and he was quite right for the first five
years or so. Now in year nine they hum, but only intermittently
unlike the slightly older one in the kitchen which positively
sings to itself =B0!=B0
I have noticed that there are different light levels, brightness,
whiteness, harshness, etc. too and that the "daylight" tubes may
be good for some people, but I prefer a softer, warmer light.
They are the only really good solution in an area which has
little direct sunlight, because they cast the least amount of
shadow.
We had a German lighting consultant advise on what to put in the
gallery area... All the talk of LUX and stuff had me dizzy, but
we ended up with eight circuits each 300 watts, so there are six
50 W halogen lamps on each. I can only say that the halogen are
good for spots and exhibiting, but no fun to work under. We hold
classes where people are dodging about all the time, even though
Eckhard adjusts them before each class. They cast really dark
shadows, so I do not think they are an option for a working
studio space, however intense the light may be or however easily
they can be moved. I am sure others will howl disagreement, but
that is our experience here.
I like the blue, Phillips "daylight" bulbs to work by (painting,
darning, sewing, embroidery, textiles, etc.) which may be more
expensive than ordinary conventional lightbulbs, but have been
developed specially for people like artists, quilters and
crafters who need artificial lighting which does not distort
colours as much as others. Unfortunately they do not make them in
the energy saving type bulbs (either the big round ones the size
of an overgrown grapefruit or funny little upright tube
thingies). At least they didn't last time I was in the market for
one and enquired. But they are extremely good for artists and
they do last a long time.
I believe a great deal will depend on your budget as much as your
own set-up and needs. Certainly most of the domestic lighting
here in the UK is now uplights, downlights and lamp lights which
are NBG for serious work spaces and studios. I miss the scope of
German lighting systems including the pull down lights either
with springs or counter-balances.
Gotta go... Up late again and I had promised myself an early
night.
Love
Janet
P.S. can you believe that... The spell-check just choked on
"darning"!??!
P.P.S could you mail Veena for me please? I have tried replying
to her mail(s) but they keep getting returned/bounced...
Apparently a "permanent error". Her address is
75124.2520@compuserve.com Many thanks!
***********************************************************
The top posted mail was sent by Janet Kaiser
The Chapel of Art : Capel Celfyddyd
8 Marine Crescent : Criccieth : Wales : UK
Centre of Excellence for The Arts
Home of The International Potters' Path
Tel: ++44 (01766) 523570 http://www.the-coa.org.uk
Open: 13.00 to 17.00hrs : Tuesday to Saturday
************** AVG Virus Protected ********************
Sam or Mary Yancy on mon 15 dec 03
When I was a motorcycle painter and now as a hobby potter, I used/use Flourecent Lights (with electronic starters for noise elimination- both regular and dayligh types ) AND clear 300W light bulbs. I also used aluminum foil (insulation in this case) on the walls and ceilings to even get the work place "brighter and to save on electric bills. Needed this for color matching and airbrush and pen and ink work. It worked great except for repair/painting color matching where I would ocasionally need sunlight. Therefore, some paint jobs had to wait for a "sunny" day. P.S. Aluminum foil really helps out with the lighting issue as it is quite reflective in case your windows are in the wrong place for good lighting. I also used/use a large mirror to visualize the paint job or pottery work better. Sam in Daly City CA near the ocean and resulting "fog" on some days.
On Dec 13, 2003, at 8:04 PM, claybair wrote:
> My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
> I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
______________________________________________________________________________
Tempy Larew on mon 15 dec 03
Gayle-- I had always had those horrible florescent lights and never liked
the off color, too bright light and that constant slight buzzzzzzzzzzzz. I
built a new studio a couple of years ago, and installed track lighting and
used the Halogen spot lights everywhere. What a joy!! No buzz, just
beautiful white light just where I want it!!!
Cheers--Tempy
Palmer Alaska is very windy today maybe some northern lights tonight
though!
----- Original Message -----
From: "claybair"
To:
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2003 7:04 PM
Subject: Studio lighting
> My question is what lighting do you prefer in your studios.
> I would like to gift myself some decent lighting.
> When selecting lighting for my house and studio
> I was assured the fluorescent lighting would not BUZZ.
> Well it did and still does in spite of changing the bulbs
> and I hate it, hate it, hate it!
> Do ya-all get the impression I hate this lighting???
> I think 4 years of buzzing is enough!
> My studio is in the garage and has a high ceiling 15 to 17ft.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Gayle Bair
> Bainbridge Island, WA
> http://claybair.com
>
>
____________________________________________________________________________
__
> 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.
>
>
Lee Love on fri 20 aug 04
I have the traditional light bulb over my kick
wheel. I recently switched from the 100W incandescent to a 100W
equivalent florescent capsule light. The light is positioned so I
sometimes bump it with my head. The lower temp was highly
appreciated. The other overhead lights are florescent. The work
better than the oldtime shop lights. All our house lights are
florescent. Electricity cost more here than back home.
We had record high temps last month. We found a new
window airconditioner at the resale shop House-Off for the studio.
Only cost about $120.00 American. Was missing some mounting hardware,
but I made it work pretty easily. I am really glad we found it. I
keep it at 25*C when it is on. My total electric bill for last month
in the studio came today and it was only $22.00 American. But I don't
have anything else electric in the studio: no electric kickwheel or pug
mill. Just a cordless infrared set of speakers to pipe in Internet
radio from the computer in the house. Have been listening to
http://airamericaradio.com
--
in Mashiko, Japan http://mashiko.org
http://www.livejournal.com/users/togeika/ WEB LOG
http://public.fotki.com/togeika/ Photos!
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