Hudson Mackenzie on sat 12 may 01
from Lynne (llynw@usa.net) via hudson@potters.org
Hello,
I am interested in hearing opinions about the manual ceraco slab roller. =
Can anyone who has used it & or the Bailley or Brent please let me know h=
ow they compare.
Thanks,
Lynne, Seattle, WA
m markey on wed 16 may 01
Hi!
I'm not familiar with Ceraco's slab roller, but I am familiar with the Brent
and Bailey models.
The Brent Slab Roller works by moving the roller along a track, from one end
of the "bed" or table, to the other end. The clay is wedged in between a
masonite shim and a heavy canvas cover, on the Brent. The thickness of the
finished clay is dependent on the number of shims placed under the clay (the
more shims, the thinner the slab will be). Caveat: the thickness of the
canvas cover also needs to be considered, for the final clay slab thickness.
The Bailey Slab Roller (the Northstar Slab Roller is similar)works by gently
feeding the clay through a stationary set of rollers. The clay is tucked in
a canvas blanket. The rollers can be adjusted for finished clay thickness,
with a spring-loaded turn knob. The roller assembly may be clamped to any
table, but it's best to use the table that Bailey offers.
The advantage of the Brent Slabroller is that one can add texture material
in between the "passes" of the roller. It also allows one to examine and
make adjustment to the clay, before the roller is moved back to the point of
origination. The disadvantage of the Brent is that the roller mechanism is
"fussy". With a roller that is not maintained and tightened properly, the
clay may not be uniformly rolled, lending to warpage or other aberrations.
The advantage of the Bailey Slab Roller is that it's fairly easy and quick,
once you get the "hang" of feeding the clay wrapped in a blanket through the
roller assembly. The thickness guage is more accurate than shims, providing
nearly flawless results, and accurate measurements. The disadvantage of the
Bailey--keep hair and ties away from the rollers!
Which one to buy depends on the accuracy of the results, and whether one is
mechanically inclined. Price is also a consideration. The Bailey is less
expensive than the Brent.
Despite the higher price, and the possible mechanical problems, I choose the
Brent over the Bailey, hands down.
Best wishes!
Mohabee (Milton) NakedClay@hotmail.com
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