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winter is approaching

updated wed 7 oct 98

 

Marley Wolhud on sat 3 oct 98

Another potential stupid question folks! Since the thermometer read 35
degrees this morning, I again began contemplating what I can leave in my
studio/garage and what I should move to my basement for the winter. I
guess clay and active glazes obviously need to get moved to the
basement, but what about all these raw materials that have overtaken my
space? I have plastic bins of raw materials all over the floor which
certainly "could" be moved but can I leave them where they are? The
studio has a propane heater and the kiln certainly throws off plenty of
heat but that would not be a constant event and I don't want to run the
heater when I am not there.

Many thanks

Diane
north of Boston, MAss

Earl Brunner on sun 4 oct 98

The main things you have to move for protection are the ones with moisture in
them, clay, probably glazes. Dry powdered raw materials should be no problem.
I once had a landlord turn the heat off in a studio when I was gone for a 4
day weekend ( U.S. Thanksgiving Day), I guess He thought to save money on
electricity. I lost $2000.00 in 1977 wholesale dollars from wet pots
freezing.
Hey, I remembered to spell check this one!
Earl Brunner

S.K. Tesar on tue 6 oct 98

Hello there,
I cannot answer about your raw materials...but for some time I had a
similar space and needed to protect clay and glazes during freeze times.
I bought an electric blanket , self adjusting sensor and set it on medium
high, this was draped over my clay boxes...as I would fetch one to use it
would be fine and my glazes never froze...the only ill effects were the
mice that occupied the nooks and crannies of the stacks as they too
enjoyed a warmer winter...they nibbled a few holes in clay bags and
shredded a little cardboard to fluff up the place. Of course a power
outtage for any extended length of time would be a problem - but you
would best know what you are up against.

Sandra on Keel Mountain, where, although I might be living in Alabama
USA, I still fire raku outside in 19 degree weather from time to
time....

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