I bought a kiln
16 April 2007 20 Comments
After changing my major from architecture to fine art, I studied graphic design for a year and a half. I realized quickly I wasn’t going to learn all that much from the design professors at the time — all of whom were somewhat lazy — and because I could I switched my emphasis midstream to ceramics.
I really like clay. The medium suits me and the way I work sculpturally better than the many others I toy around with. I don’t plan to cease toying around with other mediums; another part of the reason I was drawn to the ceramics department was that it seemed to be where the mixed media people congregated. But I have been without access to a kiln since moving to Arkansas three years and eleven months ago. Two other opportunities in the last two or three years came and went because I couldn’t bring myself to cough up the asking price for a used model.
Yesterday I finally hacked up the cash — albeit less, by almost half, than the previous chances I let slide. Regular readers received a hint that I was walking the kiln-buying trail, again, last week. My lament still holds true; two bidders had their eye on this kiln and went back and forth — jacking up the price — for three days or so.
They’re probably disappointed today. I snatched up the kiln, assuming it’s in decent working order, for less than a quarter of its replacement value. In the words of a friend, I “sniped” the thing, waiting for the very end of the auction to launch my bid. This is appropriate Ebay strategy.
Now I have to figure out where to fire the thing, not having a 240v outlet in the house other than behind the dryer, which is under a countertop and not near adequate and necessary ventilation. And, of course, I still need to get it to Arkansas. The seller is delivering the Knight kiln (model 103 of this lesser known manufacturer) to my parents home in Grand Island tomorrow. My wife and I plan to be up there in the middle of May.
Here’s a photo from the seller:
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Have you been using your kiln? I have an opportunity to by the same model for $100. and haven’t been able to find any info on it except they (knight kiln ) went out of business 10 years ago. Just curious about the internal capacity and how well it works! thanks, kristin
Kristin,
See these other posts about my use of the Knight kiln: http://theaestheticelevator.com/category/art/ceramics/
They explain how my use of the kiln has gone and who you can buy new elements from (Euclids). IIRC, the interior dimensions of the model I have are 18×23.
I wish to sell a Knight Kiln Model 82 230V 4600Watt 20 AMP
I am curious, if I may ask. How much you had to cough up for yours?
Paid ~ $225 on Ebay about 4 years ago.
I am curious as to whether you have a manual for your Model 82 Knight kiln. I’d be willing to pay $10 plus shipping for a copy of it.
Sorry, never found one. Never felt much need either. I’ve since rewired it and it’s a pretty dead simple machine.
I just got a used Knight Kiln Model 82 – know where I could obtain an instruction booklet???? how is yours firing? Thanks!
Try Euclid’s Elements; I don’t have a book. It fires just fine, though one of the switches needs to be replaced. Replaced the elements last year.
I have a Instruction Manual for a Knight Kiln model: 82 actually it is for models: 72, 82, & 103. I also have a Knight Ceramic Kilns Price List (effective 6-1-72) with the prices & Specifications for models: 72, 82, 102, & 103. Along with prices for Accessory Kits, Blank Rings, Full & Half Shelves, & Posts. Also I have the Instruction Manual for Kiln Sitter models: P & K.
Spring Ott,
Do you still have manuals?
Do you still have the instruction manual for Knight Kiln model 82? If so, how much are you asking for it, or a copy of it? Please reply to gscaasleson@hotmail.com –
Thank you.
I would also be interested in a copy of this book, if you are offering. Please let me know!
lacebeall@yahoo.com
knight model 72 instruction manual would be great!
Do you still have the Instruction manual(s)? I have recently purchased a 103, and there was no manual available. I’d really be interested in a copy if you still have yours.
ddrobie@gmail.com
I would be interested in a manual copy for model 72. lahayden@q.com
I just got a knight kiln model 82 from a friend it has no instruction book could I purchase a copy?
If you still have the Knight Kiln Model 82 Instruction Manual I would love to get a copy from you. Please Contact me at ccmorken@gmail.com.
Thanks!
I was given a Model 82T Knight Kiln recently from a friend. I don’t know much about kilns but have noticed some chalking (white dust) falling from the unit. Being an older unit I was concerned as to whether asbestos was ever used in these kilns. Does anyone have any info regarding this concern?