Originally Posted by
Lynn
The discussion of new v. old is one we really don't get into to much.
On the older scuttles, I like the ones where the water actually will cover the holes on the top of the scuttle. This way, when you set your brush on the top that water acts as a conductor for the heat and this helps keep the lather warmer.
I used to get asked what was the best scuttle for retaining heat on modern scuttles and I would always say the Moss type scuttle because it held the most water between the walls. I found that with the larger bowl scuttles, which in my mind are nice for making lather, that the heat really dissipates or is displaced quicker based on the larger open surface area.
When I started designing scuttles, the idea of more water between the walls was definitely reinforced which lead to a more bowl like shape at the bottom of the ones we made with more water volume. Sort of like little pitchers. I also found that by putting a small layer of hot water into the top bowl, it acted as a conductor of the heat. I have posted this before and at least one of the potters has paid attention and began to design their scuttle to accommodate more water.
As with anything else, there is a huge amount of personal preference that goes into the determination on your choice of scuttle or bowl for that matter.
Have fun,
Lynn