William McAloney
11-23-2019, 9:24 AM
Hello all,
I've acquired a large stock of cherry and am now experimenting with drying roughed-out bowls, mostly 12" dia x 4" thick, and some a little larger. I'm turning to 10% wall thickness. The microwave method, using techniques described by others on this forum, has produced mixed results. I've been considering the kiln method, but wonder if it is effective in an unheated shop in winter. I have a space heater to keep the shop warm enough to work in during the day (45*F), but overnight the temperature drops to the outdoor ambient. The shop temp will fluctuate by 40 to 60 degrees daily.
Will a well-insulated kiln(I'm thinking junk dishwasher) resist the temperature swings? Should I use somewhat greater wattage bulbs in this season? Should vent holes be downsized? Should I just stick with microwaving until spring returns?
Others of you must have encountered this. I'd like to hear your methods and suggestions.
Bill in Maine
I've acquired a large stock of cherry and am now experimenting with drying roughed-out bowls, mostly 12" dia x 4" thick, and some a little larger. I'm turning to 10% wall thickness. The microwave method, using techniques described by others on this forum, has produced mixed results. I've been considering the kiln method, but wonder if it is effective in an unheated shop in winter. I have a space heater to keep the shop warm enough to work in during the day (45*F), but overnight the temperature drops to the outdoor ambient. The shop temp will fluctuate by 40 to 60 degrees daily.
Will a well-insulated kiln(I'm thinking junk dishwasher) resist the temperature swings? Should I use somewhat greater wattage bulbs in this season? Should vent holes be downsized? Should I just stick with microwaving until spring returns?
Others of you must have encountered this. I'd like to hear your methods and suggestions.
Bill in Maine