kiln

[Red Shed]

I am looking for a kiln and cannot decide whether to push myself financially and buy new or go for a good second hand. Has anyone had any experience with Olympic kilns? Or has anyone any advice on buying a second hand kiln. Which kilns generally would you recommend? I am probably looking at a top loader because of price. It needs to fire to stoneware and as I am going to firing a few peoples work at once a small hobby kiln is not big enough. Any help on this would be appreciated.

[skinnydog]

There are lots of little businesses that do re-conditioned kilns that are fine, so is worth checking this out before you whack out a load of cash on a brand new one. You may even be able to get a better quality kiln second hand. If you can get a second hand front loader then I'd say go for that. The insulation is better, I find the elements easier to change and its definitely easier to pack.

Good luck!

[wyattbean]

I've had my top loader for 20 years and it hasn't let me down yet and that's firing porcelain temperatures. There are a number of kilns out there that people have bought in the past and hardly used, its worth shopping around for a second hand one or a refurbished one. Another thing to consider is whether you want electronic controls or not.

Good luck with your search
Sue:)

[brickmaker]

I am looking for a kiln and cannot decide whether to push myself financially and buy new or go for a good second hand. Has anyone had any experience with Olympic kilns? Or has anyone any advice on buying a second hand kiln. Which kilns generally would you recommend? I am probably looking at a top loader because of price. It needs to fire to stoneware and as I am going to firing a few peoples work at once a small hobby kiln is not big enough. Any help on this would be appreciated.

I used to have a top-loader Olympic Kiln. It never let me down. First rate with Dawson kiln sitter fitted. I'd reccommend them.

I now have a very nice front-loader made by Potterycrafts, with single programme controller. Does for everything I want, whether Biscuit or glost;)

Of course, there are distinct advantages to top loaders!