alisonlittleblog

Impoverished?

Not totally?

The choice between using the central heating or a pig’s head for Christmas dinner? 

ot actually on the cards?

However, admittingly, we are all tightening our belts and reducing household fuel consumption is top of the list. These, exquisite, plant-pot heaters fuelled by the simplicity of 4 tea tree lights offer an atmospheric alternative to traditional heating systems. Perhaps, not one to use on Christmas day with mounting remarks from the in-laws. An alternative source of heat, ideal when there is only one person at home lazing through some weekend reading lounging on the sofa. Equally, could be used in a garage, shed or as a patio heater.

Simple to make, smaller and larger terracotta clay pots, screwed together with associated washers. The outer edge of the visible pot is embellished with dots of artists’ acrylic paints in earth tones. Sisal string is used to crochet the lower rim and handle. Great for protecting from heat, finishing the natural fibre off with a spay of Fire Check just in case.

The bases are moderately straightforward to produce. Utilising a left over sheet of 5mm MDF and various equipment hired from Liverpool Tool Library. Most routers now come with a circle cutter so a jig shouldn’t be necessary. Cutting the base the same size of the larger planter, screwing 2 cross beams in place and shaping with a sander. The internal panel was created using a 30mm flat drill bit making slots for the tea tree lights. Although a standard wood undercoat has been used in this example, specific MDF undercoats can be ordered online. Several layers of undercoat, followed by wood gloss. Finishing off with the bolt cover which can be ordered through Ebay or Amazon.

The base raises the pots upward, allowing a flow of oxygen for the candles to burn. The heat from the flames radiates outward, the inner pot becoming very warm, up to 100 ͒C. Quickly radiating toward the outer structure. Within half an hour you can warm up a room. 

Art form heaters, a fully functional, off-grid solution to today’s rocketing fuel bills!

https://liverpooltoollibrary.org.uk/

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