Review Summary ( write a review )
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Average Product Rating : 
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Number of Reviews : 7
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| Disappointing
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Pros : none
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Cons : The description makes it sound like it's quick and easy to fuse glass using the microwave kiln. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Because all microwaves vary, you will have to spend a lot of time "calibrating" your kiln. What that really means is, expect to spend several days on trial and error. Even after you figure out what times and temperatures work for your microwave and kiln, you can't ever guarantee you will get the same results twice, even using the same glass and the same settings.
In addition, many people have said that the kiln wears out over time, so that you will have to microwave projects for longer periods of time in order to get the glass to fuse. Add this to the difficulties mentioned above, and it's just not worth the money.
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| Other Thoughts : I also don't recommend the book Microwave Kiln Techniques which is often sold with this kiln. It is only 23 pages long, and half of that is just a reprint of the exact instructions that come with the kiln. |
| Fun for experimenting
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Pros : This kiln is great for someone just looking to experiment with fusing small pieces while not expecting perfect consistency. If you're looking to try fusing without the time needed to fuse in a larger kiln, the microwave kiln is great! I often finish pieces originally fused in my microwave kiln in one of my larger kilns, which makes it great for quickly getting a more complex piece started.
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Cons : This kiln is absolutely not accurate and does not provide totally consistent results. Be prepared to spend some time getting to know how it works with your microwave - I'd recommend logging each attempt and learning from it. Slow firing (50% power on more powerful microwaves) is best, as it heats and cools so quickly that even thinner pieces do not have the time to fuse fully throughout the piece. I would also not recommend using any ceramic molds in this kiln, as they will more than likely crack due to thermal shock from the rapid heating and cooling.
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| Other Thoughts : This kiln is great fun for the hobbyist -- it lets you fuse glass much more quickly than a larger kiln, and won't drive up your electric bill the way larger kilns will. This kiln would make a good place to start for someone just getting into fusing as a hobby, since it doesn't cost a lot comparatively, but you will likely outgrow it pretty fast if you really enjoy fusing. |
| Disapointed
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Pros : I was very excited to find a product that I could use for smaller items, saving me electricity from using the large kiln. This is a great concept.
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Cons : I bought this microwave kiln about 6 months ago and have yet to get it to work correctly. At first it fused, but the pieces slid off and ran into the other pieces. I got frustrated and put it away for awhile. I recently tried it again and now it does not fuse at all. I tried 3 minutes, 4 minutes and 5 minutes with the same results. The glass heats up and thats it.
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| Other Thoughts : I have always bought from Delphi and will continue, however it would be good to know if I could return my microwave kiln and either receive a refund or credit towards other product. |
| Inconsistant
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Pros : An option for someone who doesn't plan on ever doing enough fusing for a real kiln.
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Cons : If you have another kiln to use, this is a waste of time and money. Consistantly INconsistant!
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| Other Thoughts : This kiln is virtually impossible to calibrate. The tiniest differences in size or shape of your piece makes for a major hassle recalibrating cook times. So much easier to use a real kiln. The time you save by using a microwave is wasted trying to get consistant results. My time is too valuable to continue using this kiln. |
| Awesome and addictive!!
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Pros : Once I get started, I can't get enough! I love to experiment with different color combos. Very convenient and affordable! Thanks Delphi for staying on the cutting edge!
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Cons : It can be a little unpredictable, but it usually depends on how continuously it is used. Always make sure to use new shelf paper each time! If you get an indentation, use sandpaper to smooth out, but remember to use a mask - you don't want to inhale the particle dust.
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| Other Thoughts : I love this item. |
| save your money
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Pros : I have nothing good to say, unfortunately.
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Cons : This is by far the most frustrating product I have ever worked with. I have tried to alter my fire time, let it sit when done, put the glass tray in the microwave, take it out, etc. I still love Delphi - but I am taking this up with Jen-Ken.
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| Other Thoughts : I still love Delphi |
| Jen-Ken Kiln
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Pros : I have found it to be a lot quicker than I had anticipated. I am getting good results right away
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Cons : Buy lots of extra kiln paper and be prepared to practice. It is a little pricey.
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