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I'm having a hell of a problem deciding between the J-K Oval 13 and the Skutt 1414. They're almost exactly the same dimensions and price with slightly different controllers made by the same company. I've heard great things and some not-so-great things about both. Does anyone have both brands and can...

Skutt is now advertizing a "Lid Lifter". Do you think that would solve the problem with the heavy top?
They are also advertizing a ventilation system for under the kiln. They say you can't thermal shock the glass with the fresh air sucked in through the top. Is this true?

Does anyone have any recent experience with the Skutt GM1414? I've heard there were problems in the past and am wondering if they have been corrected. Would the Jen Ken Oval 13 be better?

I'm setting up a kiln in a small space. I can put the 18" between the kiln and walls, but am thinking of putting welding or silica cloth on the walls. Does anyone have any experience with this or other heat-proofing on their walls? (My basement walls are cement block with old wood panelling.) A...

Alyssa, I belong to an organization called New York Artists Equity Assoc (NYAEA). It's an arts advocacy group for New York residents only. One of the most important things we do is offer group health insurance for individual artists. The premium is not cheap and it's basic coverage, but it's better ...

I'm planning to set up my own warm glass studio from scratch in the basement of my house, from the wiring to work surfaces to glass stock to kiln. I can find loads of info on equipment, but NONE on layout, safety, etc., for instance: Is it reasonable to expect to work in the same room as the kiln? H...