Studio Tip: SilkeMat Solution for a Large Drop Vessel
Earlier in the year I was planning to make a large drop-out vessel for a Black & White exhibit at a gallery. I wanted a vessel with a ~12" diameter opening. My problem was none of my drop-out rings were large enough and what I needed was not available commercially. I looked into multiple solutions, including cutting my own from vermiculite, creating one from clay, or purchasing a custom ring cut from a kiln shelf. I had a tight timeframe for my project and I also did not want to break the bank on something that I might not use very often. The solution was to create the ring from SilkeMat. SilkeMat is a refractory material that is blanket-like. It can be used in its softer blanket form or can be coated with rigidizer to provide stronger support. It's also non-carcinogenetic, which is a consideration when striving to keep a safe working environment in the studio. I thought I would share my kiln setup for anyone who might need a custom size drop-out ring or other mold. The ...
