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aptosca

Ceramics studio layout suggestions

7 years ago

Hi.


We're drawing up plans for detached workshop that will be used for several things including a ceramics studio for my fiancée.


She's been doing ceramics at a local art center for a few years but plans to do more soon.


We plan to have a sink (with a clay trap), a wheel, and eventually a kiln. We're sizing for a fairly substantial kiln with 50A @ 240V (though we won't start out that way).


We're wondering if folks have an opinion on placement of the sink and the kiln in our space.





Comments (4)

  • 6 years ago

    I see its been 10 month since you asked and no answer. If you still need advice i would suggest you not put the kiln in her working space as they give off fumes during firing that are not good for you. Yes they have kiln vents to take those fumes away but i still would not have a kiln in the same space as i was working. A separated room or building that can be closed off completely from the working space and opened to the outdoors and vented is what i would go for.

    aptosca thanked Pea
  • 6 years ago

    Thanks for the note.

    At this point, the spot for the kiln is in the back corner. That's where the power was installed. We really didn't have too much flexibility. We will, when we put in the kiln, but in a powered vent. And we do have the four operable skylights plus awning windows on the wall next to the kiln.

    We'll see if that's enough or figure out an alternative. Without much space, we only have so much we can do.

    Thanks again.

  • 6 years ago

    Keep in mind that kilns need to be at least 18" from any adjacent walls, cabinets, etc. 12" to a concrete wall may be OK. The fumes from kilns can be corrosive which is why its recommended to never have them in the same room as humans, cars (paint can blister), etc. They really need their own well ventilated space.


    If you can't do a separate shed or room for it then maybe consider a very sheltered outside spot. I know of two people in MN who have their kiln outside their throwing room under a shed roof with wind/rain walls on a couple of sides. Less expensive than adding inside space and still serves their purpose. I'm not sure how they handle pulling stuff out when outside temps are below 0°f though. Also make sure your local electrical inspector is OK with how you'll wire it.

  • 6 years ago

    I second (or third?) the motion for not putting the kiln in the workspace. If you put it in a separate structure your insurance will be lower as well. The kiln also throws a LOT of heat. That workshop will be impossible to work in in the summer - or you'll be looking at some truly impressive cooling bills.