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wheel tuneups, plaster bats, test kilns, and other miscellany

updated sun 25 apr 99

 

Lois Ruben Aronow on sat 24 apr 99

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I am now the proud (very proud=21) owner of an old Shimpo. OK, so I
forgot the model number. But it is wonderful=21 It was sitting in
someone's basement, unused, for 2 years. It works GREAT, but I'm
feeling a little vibration from the motor that translates to the wheel
head. Also, i'd like to loosen the foot pedal a tad. SO - Where do I
start in giving it a little tuneup? It's my first wheel (and, I love
it so much, maybe my last) and i know little about wheel maintenance.

My next question is: does anyone have a source for purchasing plaster
bats? Yes, I know they're easy to make. But the communal studio I
work in would like to purchase a bunch of ready-made (and so would I)
thus avoiding lots and lots of plaster in our small (and shared)
studio. Our local Ceramics Supply (in NY/NJ) doesn't sell ready made
plaster bats.

Lastly, I'm interested in purchasing a test kiln. I fire electric,
cone 6, but I'd like a test kiln that goes up to 8, at least. Any
recommendations? Am I better going with one that runs on 220, rather
than household current?

Thanks, Clayart, for the help. you guys are great.

...Lo