Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman on fri 16 apr 99
Hello all!
I'm really ready to plunk down my money (or at least give up my credit card
number) to buy an extruder. But since I've only seen them used, and never
had access to one for my own use, I would appreciate advice about which to
buy. Yes, I enjoyed David Hendley's article in Pottery Making Illustrated,
but I know if I wait until I make one, it will be the next millenium, and I
want one NOW!
I use both porcelain and white stoneware, so I'm concerned about
contamination from rust, etc. from oxidising metals in the extruder.
I want to use the extruder at least to make coils for throwing larger pots.
I don't know what else I'll want to use it for, but I can see making boxes
with it.
I looked at the North Star stainless steel extruder at NCECA and it looked
like changing the dies was a big production, although I imagine that by
changing the nuts to wing nuts, it could be simplified. In general, I don't
have a lot of patience for hard-to-use equipment, since when equipment is
easy to use, it gets used more often. I'd rather spend a little more money
for something that is a joy to use, than deal with the false economy of
saving pennies on the purchase and regretting it every day.
Oh, yes, I'm not a production potter, nor do I expect to become one. I'm NOT
looking at processing hundreds of pounds of clay in one sitting.
Is there anything else that influenced your purchase of whichever extruder
you own, and are my concerns valid? Did you own an extruder you hated and
why? Since I won't be able to see the extruders in person before buying, I
greatly appreciate help from anyone who's been there and done that.
TIA
Bonnie
Bonnie Hellman in Pittsburgh, PA
Linda Blossom on sat 17 apr 99
There are not a lot of choices on extruders. I chose the Bailey. Mine is
pneumatic which frees my hands to hold onto what is being extruded. I have
both a small barrel for coils and a large barrel with an expansion box for
large, hollow forms. I have not had a rust problem, but then I do clean it
out when I am done and spray it with the deadly wd 40 before use. This does
not affect the clay or glaze,. just me.
Linda Blossom
2366 Slaterville Rd
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-539-7912
blossom@twcny.rr.com
www.artscape.com/Artists/Blossom
>
Pamala Browne on sat 17 apr 99
I have owned a Bailey Extruder for almost 10 years now and I love it .It is
strong and simple. I have only extruded coils ( of all sizes ) --never
bought the fancy shape dies. Best advice -fork out the dough and buy a good
one --tools should last for many ,many years. Also the simpler the better ,
the more dillyboppers the more there is to break . Good luck!
-----Original Message-----
From: Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman
To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
Date: Friday, April 16, 1999 4:53 AM
Subject: Extruder Selection Help Please
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Hello all!
>
>I'm really ready to plunk down my money (or at least give up my credit card
>number) to buy an extruder. But since I've only seen them used, and never
>had access to one for my own use, I would appreciate advice about which to
>buy. Yes, I enjoyed David Hendley's article in Pottery Making Illustrated,
>but I know if I wait until I make one, it will be the next millenium, and I
>want one NOW!
>
>I use both porcelain and white stoneware, so I'm concerned about
>contamination from rust, etc. from oxidising metals in the extruder.
>
>I want to use the extruder at least to make coils for throwing larger pots.
>I don't know what else I'll want to use it for, but I can see making boxes
>with it.
>
>I looked at the North Star stainless steel extruder at NCECA and it looked
>like changing the dies was a big production, although I imagine that by
>changing the nuts to wing nuts, it could be simplified. In general, I don't
>have a lot of patience for hard-to-use equipment, since when equipment is
>easy to use, it gets used more often. I'd rather spend a little more money
>for something that is a joy to use, than deal with the false economy of
>saving pennies on the purchase and regretting it every day.
>
>Oh, yes, I'm not a production potter, nor do I expect to become one. I'm
NOT
>looking at processing hundreds of pounds of clay in one sitting.
>
>Is there anything else that influenced your purchase of whichever extruder
>you own, and are my concerns valid? Did you own an extruder you hated and
>why? Since I won't be able to see the extruders in person before buying, I
>greatly appreciate help from anyone who's been there and done that.
>
>TIA
>
>Bonnie
>
>Bonnie Hellman in Pittsburgh, PA
>
Marty Anderson on sat 17 apr 99
If you don't have a lot of patience you don't want the North Star extruder.
Everyone at school hates the thing everytime they want to change the die. A
lot of people don't bother since they don't want to take the time to mess
with the bolts. The extruder David used at his workshop I believe was a
Brent. If that is what it was, I really liked it because you could just
unhook the bottom, take it off and change out the dies very easily. I think
David would be a good source the recommend an extruder other than making one
if one is not inclined to make his own.
marty
-----Original Message-----
From: Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman
To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
Date: Friday, April 16, 1999 4:53 AM
Subject: Extruder Selection Help Please
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Hello all!
>
>I'm really ready to plunk down my money (or at least give up my credit card
>number) to buy an extruder. But since I've only seen them used, and never
>had access to one for my own use, I would appreciate advice about which to
>buy. Yes, I enjoyed David Hendley's article in Pottery Making Illustrated,
>but I know if I wait until I make one, it will be the next millenium, and I
>want one NOW!
>
>I use both porcelain and white stoneware, so I'm concerned about
>contamination from rust, etc. from oxidising metals in the extruder.
>
>I want to use the extruder at least to make coils for throwing larger pots.
>I don't know what else I'll want to use it for, but I can see making boxes
>with it.
>
>I looked at the North Star stainless steel extruder at NCECA and it looked
>like changing the dies was a big production, although I imagine that by
>changing the nuts to wing nuts, it could be simplified. In general, I don't
>have a lot of patience for hard-to-use equipment, since when equipment is
>easy to use, it gets used more often. I'd rather spend a little more money
>for something that is a joy to use, than deal with the false economy of
>saving pennies on the purchase and regretting it every day.
>
>Oh, yes, I'm not a production potter, nor do I expect to become one. I'm
NOT
>looking at processing hundreds of pounds of clay in one sitting.
>
>Is there anything else that influenced your purchase of whichever extruder
>you own, and are my concerns valid? Did you own an extruder you hated and
>why? Since I won't be able to see the extruders in person before buying, I
>greatly appreciate help from anyone who's been there and done that.
>
>TIA
>
>Bonnie
>
>Bonnie Hellman in Pittsburgh, PA
>
John Post on sun 18 apr 99
>I'm really ready to plunk down my money...to buy an extruder. ...
>I use both porcelain and white stoneware, so I'm concerned about
>contamination from rust, etc. from oxidising metals in the extruder.
Hi Bonnie,
I have a Bailey 4" extruder. You can get one in stainless steel for a
small amount more than the regular one. Changing the dies is fairly
simple. The Bailey does have wingnuts on it already.
I think the Brent barrel has the easiest dies to change. One little twist
of the barrel cap and off it comes. The reason that I got a Bailey and not
a Brent was that the Brent is a round barrel and you need to make round or
roundish dies to fit in the barrel. This means you need to have access to
a band saw or some other type of saw to cut the dies to fit into the
holder. The Bailey is a square extruder and uses square dies. It's much
simpler to make square dies.
I have my own bandsaw and still chose the Bailey over the Brent. I just
didn't feel like having to set up my circle jig every time I wanted to make
some new dies.
It's not to time consuming to change the dies on the Bailey anyway. One
thing that some people don't like about them is that a little clay squirts
out from the side of the die while you are extruding. I just have a little
bin underneath the extruder to catch the scraps. It's not a big deal.
When you do get your extruder I recommend using Pam cooking spray inside
the barrel to make cleaning easier. I also recommend wrapping a small
square of denim around the plunger barrel and running it through the
extruder when your done. This cleans it really quickly and efficiently.
Happy shopping...
John Post
Sterling Heights, Michigan
temmoku@actionwebs.net
Jan Lipuma on sun 18 apr 99
Hi Bonnie,
I use a Bailey and love it - easy to change dies, good leverage, etc.
Don't think you can go wrong.
Mine is bolted to the edge of a heavy table since I didn't have an
available wall or post. Fortunately, I got it used from a potter's
sell-off, and it must be 30 years old but the Bailey extruder may be the
only potter's tool that will never need maintenance/repair. :^)) I didn't
know what I wanted it for, just knew I had to have it.
I'll go ahead and shock the "tidiers" by admitting I never clean it out.
Just give it a wack with a ballpean hammer and let the dried clay fall into
a bucket. I wouldn't worry about contamination of clays since both are
white. Any residue of the previous clay would only be on the outside of
the wad and easy to remove.
One thing I learned: After the handle is down as far as it goes, there is
still a 3" cylinder of clay in the wad box. An easy way to dislodge the
remaining clay is to have a 3" thick wooden disk cut to
be dropped in on top of this clay. The solid clay and the wooden disk fall
right out when the handle is lowered on them.
I love it -- wide possibilities and I can't wait for the upcoming books.
Like most people who own an extruder, I have only incorporated a few
obvious uses for it. Now I have the option of using it for uniform coils
for coil throwing, handles (although I still snobishly pull most of them
them), coils to run the roulette stamps over (this results in a "looser"
strip that a flat slab) or sponge a groove down the middle -- whatever. I
had a plexiglass scrap cut into a 3" x1/4" rectangular cut to extrude the
walls for handbuilt boxes. An interesting array of boxes emerged and I was
very proud of myself for figuring out a way to maximize usefulness of this
tool with what I had at hand.
When I made windchimes this year, I think I'll just extrude coils, slice
into cookies and stamp them, but I may prefer the original method of
squashing a round ball with the stamps. There are times when it gets
confusing whether to go with the expedient method, or lose money doing
things the way you like them. But then, I am easily confused. Right, RR?
The discovery of usefullness is the fun of learning about new tools. Now I
get to see how my newly NECECA-aquired slab roller will impact the work
and/or production.
A few years ago, someone came to me with extruded candle holders: a
hexagon conglomerate of assorted heights and numbers mounted onto a slab.
Couldn't understand why I couldn't make them without the spider for open
cylinders -- or why I didn't want to.
Have fun. Regards,
Janice Lipuma
Lexington, KY
showing a profit for the first time since making pots a full-time business
4 years ago and learning the making for 26 years. guess its all a
process - but gawd why does it take sooo long
Paul Lewing on sun 18 apr 99
I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
extruder, which all need a wall mount.
Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
get it just right.
North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
U-joint as the Bailey.
Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
full block of pugged clay.
I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
nothing came out!
Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
Paul Lewing, Seattle
Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman on mon 19 apr 99
Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because it
will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other things.
With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
can be done.
On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten when
the item is enjoyed.
If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
Bonnie
----------
>From: Paul Lewing
>To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
>Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
>Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
>
> Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
>
> Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> extruder, which all need a wall mount.
>
> Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> get it just right.
>
> North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> U-joint as the Bailey.
>
> Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> full block of pugged clay.
>
> I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> nothing came out!
>
> Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
>
>
> Paul Lewing, Seattle
muddpie on tue 20 apr 99
Bonnie,
keep in mind that the 5" bailey model will not extrude small coils. I had this
one for a short period of time. The staff at bailey told me that I would have
no problem extruding coils... and maybe I didn't specify the right size. I was
trying to get coils that were 3/16" dia. and up to 5/16" dia. and had 12 - 15
holes drilled in one die. I got more clay out from around the die than I did
out of the holes.
After I returned this extruder, Mr. Bailey himself called me and told me that in
fact, his 5" extruder would NOT extrude coils that small....no matter how many
holes were in the die. He also said that his staff was wrong in telling me that
it would.
Just a little food for thought, as you know you want coils, and want something
big enough to grow into.
JuliE
In michigan... where it is very sunny again today
Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman wrote:
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
>
> Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
> never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
>
> The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
> how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because it
> will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other things.
> With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
> can be done.
>
> On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
> used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
> those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten when
> the item is enjoyed.
>
> If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
>
> Bonnie
>
> ----------
> >From: Paul Lewing
> >To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
> >Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
> >Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
> >
>
> > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> > and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
> >
> > Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> > block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> > twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> > the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> > like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> > have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> > piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
> >
> > Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> > a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> > threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> > barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> > if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> > shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> > extruder, which all need a wall mount.
> >
> > Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> > cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> > as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> > awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> > get it just right.
> >
> > North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> > long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> > were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> > have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> > U-joint as the Bailey.
> >
> > Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> > serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> > the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> > one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> > full block of pugged clay.
> >
> > I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> > you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> > said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> > handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> > However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> > lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> > student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> > even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> > nothing came out!
> >
> > Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> > probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
> >
> >
> > Paul Lewing, Seattle
Herb Moses on tue 20 apr 99
I have a North Star extruder. I've been very pleased with it, discovered
that extruded handles look like extruded handles, and have moved on to some
utilitarian and creative uses/ The dies are not difficult to change at all.
It helps to plan your work to minimize changing.
Herb
http://www.usapottery.com
Palm Springs Pottery
(opening soon)
----- Original Message -----
From: Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman
To:
Sent: Friday, April 16, 1999 4:53 AM
Subject: Extruder Selection Help Please
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Hello all!
>
> I'm really ready to plunk down my money (or at least give up my credit
card
> number) to buy an extruder. But since I've only seen them used, and never
> had access to one for my own use, I would appreciate advice about which to
> buy. Yes, I enjoyed David Hendley's article in Pottery Making Illustrated,
> but I know if I wait until I make one, it will be the next millenium, and
I
> want one NOW!
>
> I use both porcelain and white stoneware, so I'm concerned about
> contamination from rust, etc. from oxidising metals in the extruder.
>
> I want to use the extruder at least to make coils for throwing larger
pots.
> I don't know what else I'll want to use it for, but I can see making boxes
> with it.
>
> I looked at the North Star stainless steel extruder at NCECA and it looked
> like changing the dies was a big production, although I imagine that by
> changing the nuts to wing nuts, it could be simplified. In general, I
don't
> have a lot of patience for hard-to-use equipment, since when equipment is
> easy to use, it gets used more often. I'd rather spend a little more money
> for something that is a joy to use, than deal with the false economy of
> saving pennies on the purchase and regretting it every day.
>
> Oh, yes, I'm not a production potter, nor do I expect to become one. I'm
NOT
> looking at processing hundreds of pounds of clay in one sitting.
>
> Is there anything else that influenced your purchase of whichever extruder
> you own, and are my concerns valid? Did you own an extruder you hated and
> why? Since I won't be able to see the extruders in person before buying, I
> greatly appreciate help from anyone who's been there and done that.
>
> TIA
>
> Bonnie
>
> Bonnie Hellman in Pittsburgh, PA
CINDI ANDERSON on tue 20 apr 99
I am anxiously awaiting more replies on extruder selection also. Nobody
mentioned the Super Duper Clay Extruder. Any experience with that one,
anyone?
Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
>
> Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
> never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
>
> The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
> how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because it
> will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other things.
> With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
> can be done.
>
> On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
> used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
> those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten when
> the item is enjoyed.
>
> If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
>
> Bonnie
>
> ----------
> >From: Paul Lewing
> >To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
> >Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
> >Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
> >
>
> > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> > and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
> >
> > Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> > block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> > twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> > the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> > like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> > have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> > piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
> >
> > Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> > a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> > threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> > barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> > if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> > shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> > extruder, which all need a wall mount.
> >
> > Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> > cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> > as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> > awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> > get it just right.
> >
> > North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> > long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> > were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> > have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> > U-joint as the Bailey.
> >
> > Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> > serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> > the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> > one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> > full block of pugged clay.
> >
> > I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> > you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> > said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> > handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> > However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> > lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> > student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> > even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> > nothing came out!
> >
> > Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> > probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
> >
> >
> > Paul Lewing, Seattle
Jim Brooks on wed 21 apr 99
You will have to look around for what you want.. I considered several
things.. but found out later that they were not the most important.. If i
were to get another extruder..I would consider..the capacity of the
barrel...and the ease of changing dies..in the middle of a job. My North
Star has only limited capactiy and is very difficult to change dies....so
you be the judge..
Billy Winer on thu 22 apr 99
I have been surprised also that nobody mentioned the Super Duper Clay Extruder.
have had mine for years and find it very easy to use. I depends, however, what
you will use the extruder for. It is probably best used for coils and small
diameter hollow tubes. One problem with it is the way the handle has to be move
down from notch to notch as you progress to the bottom of the barrel. Sometimes
it slips of the holder and can cause problems. Also, the capacity of the extrud
is small. I would only buy this extruder if you are primarily going to use it f
coils. Hope this helps. Biljana in Lexington KY
CINDI ANDERSON wrote:
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> I am anxiously awaiting more replies on extruder selection also. Nobody
> mentioned the Super Duper Clay Extruder. Any experience with that one,
> anyone?
>
> Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman wrote:
> >
> > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
> >
> > Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
> > never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
> >
> > The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
> > how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because it
> > will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other things.
> > With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
> > can be done.
> >
> > On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
> > used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
> > those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten when
> > the item is enjoyed.
> >
> > If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
> >
> > Bonnie
> >
> > ----------
> > >From: Paul Lewing
> > >To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
> > >Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
> > >Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
> > >
> >
> > > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > > I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> > > and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
> > >
> > > Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> > > block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> > > twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> > > the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> > > like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> > > have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> > > piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
> > >
> > > Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> > > a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> > > threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> > > barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> > > if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> > > shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> > > extruder, which all need a wall mount.
> > >
> > > Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> > > cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> > > as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> > > awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> > > get it just right.
> > >
> > > North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> > > long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> > > were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> > > have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> > > U-joint as the Bailey.
> > >
> > > Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> > > serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> > > the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> > > one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> > > full block of pugged clay.
> > >
> > > I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> > > you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> > > said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> > > handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> > > However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> > > lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> > > student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> > > even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> > > nothing came out!
> > >
> > > Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> > > probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
> > >
> > >
> > > Paul Lewing, Seattle
Carol Seidman on thu 22 apr 99
Cindi: The Super Duper Clay Extruder is a glorified chaulking gun. I
bought one for an adult education class, and the plunger that pushes the
clay through the tube fell off after a few uses. My students get a
kick out of it and make a few coil pots. The only good thing about it is
that its portable. Carol Seidman
CINDI ANDERSON wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> I am anxiously awaiting more replies on extruder selection also. Nobody
> mentioned the Super Duper Clay Extruder. Any experience with that one,
> anyone?
>
> Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman wrote:
> >
> > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
> >
> > Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
> > never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
> >
> > The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
> > how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because it
> > will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other things.
> > With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
> > can be done.
> >
> > On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
> > used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
> > those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten when
> > the item is enjoyed.
> >
> > If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
> >
> > Bonnie
> >
> > ----------
> > >From: Paul Lewing
> > >To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
> > >Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
> > >Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
> > >
> >
> > > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > > I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> > > and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
> > >
> > > Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> > > block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> > > twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> > > the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> > > like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> > > have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> > > piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
> > >
> > > Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> > > a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> > > threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> > > barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> > > if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> > > shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> > > extruder, which all need a wall mount.
> > >
> > > Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> > > cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> > > as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> > > awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> > > get it just right.
> > >
> > > North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> > > long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> > > were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> > > have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> > > U-joint as the Bailey.
> > >
> > > Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> > > serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> > > the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> > > one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> > > full block of pugged clay.
> > >
> > > I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> > > you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> > > said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> > > handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> > > However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> > > lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> > > student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> > > even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> > > nothing came out!
> > >
> > > Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> > > probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
> > >
> > >
> > > Paul Lewing, Seattle
CINDI ANDERSON on sun 25 apr 99
Correct me if I am wrong, but I think you are referring to the
miniature extruder they sell that goes for about $30. Not the normal
extruders which are similar to the Brent and Northstar and certainly not
portable...
Carol Seidman wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Cindi: The Super Duper Clay Extruder is a glorified chaulking gun. I
> bought one for an adult education class, and the plunger that pushes the
> clay through the tube fell off after a few uses. My students get a
> kick out of it and make a few coil pots. The only good thing about it is
> that its portable. Carol Seidman
>
> CINDI ANDERSON wrote:
> >
> > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > I am anxiously awaiting more replies on extruder selection also. Nobody
> > mentioned the Super Duper Clay Extruder. Any experience with that one,
> > anyone?
> >
> > Jeremy/Bonnie Hellman wrote:
> > >
> > > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > > Paul, and everyone else who has replied to my extruder request,
> > >
> > > Thank you all! So much good information, answers to some questions that I
> > > never even thought to ask (but should have asked).
> > >
> > > The difficult part of buying equipment that I haven't used is not knowing
> > > how I'll want to use it. It seems a shame to buy a small extruder because
> > > will be essentially a dedicated coil maker, IF I'll want to do other thing
> > > With only a small extruder, it appears that I'll be highly limited in what
> > > can be done.
> > >
> > > On the other hand, no one likes to waste money buying a fancy toy that is
> > > used only to make coils. As with every purchase, the worst purchases are
> > > those that don't get used. There's a saying that the price is forgotten wh
> > > the item is enjoyed.
> > >
> > > If anyone else has opinions, I'm still listening, with great interest!
> > >
> > > Bonnie
> > >
> > > ----------
> > > >From: Paul Lewing
> > > >To: CLAYART@LSV.UKY.EDU
> > > >Subject: Re: Extruder Selection Help Please
> > > >Date: Sun, Apr 18, 1999, 6:14 PM
> > > >
> > >
> > > > ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> > > > I've used most brands of extruders in the course of giving workshops,
> > > > and I have definite preferences. Here's my rating of them:
> > > >
> > > > Randall. This is what I have. I like the ability to put in a 25 lb.
> > > > block of clay all at once, and I like the simple way the die collar just
> > > > twists on and off the bottom of the barrel. I also like the simple way
> > > > the handle adjusts for the amount of clay and comes off and on. I don't
> > > > like the fact that I've popped the bottom out of it twice and had to
> > > > have it rewelded. And the handle is WAY too short. I have to slip a
> > > > piece of pipe on the end to get enough leverage.
> > > >
> > > > Brent. Some models have a screw attachment to hold the die collar, some
> > > > a twist mechanism. The screw gets hard to use when there's clay in the
> > > > threads. Good solid mechanism, though, although I prefer a bigger
> > > > barrel. I don't like the U-jount mechanism that adjusts the handle, and
> > > > if you're short, it's a real pain getting it off over the top of the
> > > > shaft. But some models will bolt onto a table top, unlike any other
> > > > extruder, which all need a wall mount.
> > > >
> > > > Bailey. I like the square shape for its versatility and ease of
> > > > cleaning, and I like the nice long handle. But it has the same U-joint
> > > > as the Brent and I really hate the way the dies are held in place. It's
> > > > awkward to put dies in and clay leaks out around the die if you don't
> > > > get it just right.
> > > >
> > > > North Star. I've only used the one with the barrel that's about a foot
> > > > long. It's a joke- a toy. It might be OK if all you wanted to make
> > > > were very small coils, but for even a half-inch diameter coil, you will
> > > > have to reload every few pulls. Also has the same die holder system and
> > > > U-joint as the Bailey.
> > > >
> > > > Scott Creek. I've never used one, but I've seen them, and if memory
> > > > serves me right, they have pretty much all the features I like from all
> > > > the other brands. I'd seriously look into one if I were buying another
> > > > one, especially if I could find one with a barrel big enough fo hold a
> > > > full block of pugged clay.
> > > >
> > > > I've only ever used one hydraulic extruder- it was a Bailey. I think if
> > > > you're not using it all the time, or if you're not, as Linda Blossom
> > > > said she was, making complicated shapes that required both your hands to
> > > > handle as they came out, a power extruder would be a waste of money.
> > > > However, I'm 6' 3" and weigh 195 lbs. If I were 5' 2" and weighed 95
> > > > lbs. my opinion might very well be different. In fact, I hired a former
> > > > student once to extrude for me on my Randall. He's pretty small, and
> > > > even with the piece of pipe on the handle, he chinned himself and
> > > > nothing came out!
> > > >
> > > > Good luck with your extruder. It's a fun piece of equipment and
> > > > probably the most under-utilized too in the studio.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Paul Lewing, Seattle
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