WarmGlass.com

I am planning on making a dining room hanging light (this shape: http://www.artfulhome.com/product/Art-G ... Bowl/63171 or like this http://www.artfulhome.com/product/Glass ... Lamp/30427 ). Is a sink mold used to make these large lamps? (sink mold like this: http://www.fusionheadquarters.com/product_p/sinkmol.htm ). Unfortunately, I live in a rural area and have to order molds so I can't go and see them before I buy - any advice is appreciated!
thanks very much!
Jane

Instead of buying an expensive "sink mold" just look for a big wok. Or go to a metal spinner and see what they have to offer in stock. Much cheaper, just as good . . .

Thanks, Brock!

Brock wrote:Instead of buying an expensive "sink mold" just look for a big wok. Or go to a metal spinner and see what they have to offer in stock. Much cheaper, just as good . . .

Brock: does the wok need to be stainless steel?

No, but SS is probably better. We used to travel with a dozen metal woks for teaching. I can't remember what they were but not SS. Basically, if it can take the heat it'll work. I slump at 1150.

your first link reminds me of BE ball mold 008737. it has that nice rounded shape. it is only 20" though, so the final bowl will be a bit smaller. Still a very useful size for a lamp...mold is expensive, as Brock said.

cheers, seachange

Brock wrote:No, but SS is probably better. We used to travel with a dozen metal woks for teaching. I can't remember what they were but not SS. Basically, if it can take the heat it'll work. I slump at 1150.

I've been using a standard steel wok for over 10 years and who knows how many items I've slumped in it and still going strong. Think I paid about $30 for a 24" one when I got it many years ago. just put plenty of kiln wash on it and don't go too hot.

I also bought a wok about 8 or 9 years ago. I don't do sinks, but I use it for platters and trays. To slump, I fire 1350 for float and 1265 or so for 90 or 96.

304 stainless steel molds will last for your lifetime. I have reasons to fire as hot as 1420ºF, in mine, and they hold up just fine.

Eastman ss Woks are available in 2 sizes on Amazon. They have handles and a straight edge. You can remove or leave the handles in place. I would only remove them if space is an issue. These have a flat spot on the bottom which gives them a stability factor. I have a sink in my home, made this way, and it drains well enough. For a light fixture, you would have to stop the slump before it flattened out.

The advantage to the Fusion HQ molds is that they have a rolled top edge which makes the mold more stable. They also have good shapes.

Thanks everyone - this is very helpful information.
Jane

Woks work. Also check restaurant supply stores. They usually sell a huge range of stainless bowls and I've gotten some pretty big ones there. Heaven knows what they mix in them--maybe huge amounts of salad? Looking at woks and bowls gives you many more options for shape/depth.

I have a wok listed on our site under odds and ends....we have been doing a reorg and major studio clean out and have goodies from it for sale. I used to make sinks but not these days.
Just one large one listed.

Thanks all!

Laurie - I sent you an email.

best,
Jane

Curious if you have made this, would love to see a photo. How did you support it when drilling the holes and what type of hardware did you use?

I've had local potters make many large molds for me from either a porcelain body or stoneware and just have them bisque fire it. We had several style of sinks molds made this way and many times they are open to bartering for their clay pieces. Be sure and kiln wash the surface well.

Hi Stacy,
Unfortunately I've had a few unexpected things happen and I haven't yet had a chance to make it. I'll post pictures when I do, but you can see hardware examples at artfulhome.com
Jane

StaceyG wrote:Curious if you have made this, would love to see a photo. How did you support it when drilling the holes and what type of hardware did you use?

Both great questions which I echo.

I have been to numerous lamp supply stores looking for supply houses for lighting hardware with little success. Slumpys (board sponsor) has a limited number. Any suggestions out there?

Brock wrote:No, but SS is probably better. We used to travel with a dozen metal woks for teaching. I can't remember what they were but not SS. Basically, if it can take the heat it'll work. I slump at 1150.

You missed an opportunity, Brock: "If it'll take the heat, it'll wok."