Frit-Happens !

Technical Forum => Studio/workspace/setup/equipment => Kilns => Topic started by: Sandera on August 31, 2011, 08:50:13 AM

Title: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Sandera on August 31, 2011, 08:50:13 AM
It seems like only yesterday that I was (very worriedly!) firing up my Paragon Fusion 7 kiln for the first time. In fact I've had it for over 18 months now and I still love the reliability of this little gem - I've done fusing, slumping and some small castings in her. However it's now time to take the next step and buy a bigger and deeper kiln. Can anyone recommend a kiln that can handle both slumping and casting? I'm considering the GL24 - anyone had any experience with this kiln?

Sandera
Title: Re: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Black Heart Beads on August 31, 2011, 10:32:20 AM
Hi Sandera, I have a GL24 and love it  ;D. It's a great kiln and the only problem I have with it is removing the kiln shelf, but I don't do that very often. I have only done fusing and slumping in mine so far but I will be casting soon and have no doubt the kiln is up to the job. It's huge inside and the height is great for quite tall cast pieces. I got her second hand although she had not been used other than to test her but, she had been well traveled. Has been to Spain, Wales and is now in Devon and nothing has shaken loose.

It really is a great kiln but my experience with others is limited so I can't compare to other models
Title: Re: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Sandera on August 31, 2011, 12:38:16 PM
Thanks for sharing your experience. I think I will have to make up my mind soon or I'll never take the plunge! (I was like this when I was thinking about buying my Paragon Fusion 7!)
Title: Re: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Pat from Canvey on August 31, 2011, 06:23:14 PM
You might want to look at http://www.essexkilns.co.uk/glass-kilns-hobbyist from time to time to see if they have any refurbished that are suitable. I got my ceramics kiln from them about 20 years ago and its still going strong. They fitted a simple programmer for me suitable for glass work.
Title: Re: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Sandera on August 31, 2011, 06:39:37 PM
Thanks Pat - a good tip - especially as it looks as though the Gl 24 might be a little tricky to get hold of in this country. Pah - took me ages to settle on that size as well :'(
Title: Re: Bigger glass kiln
Post by: Sandera on September 03, 2011, 09:03:12 PM
I'm having to revise my initial thoughts as the GL24 seems to be unobtainable any time soon. So I thought the Paragon Fusion 10 might be a good alternative. Does anyone have any experience with this kiln?