Pattern pool
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The Pattern Pool is a collection or "library" of patterns used for creating castings. Pattern pools have existed in various forms for many years. Most pattern pools are operated by dedicated individuals, such as those listed below.
Walter H Allen
See Walter Allen.
Dave Farmer
Harry Wade
March 15, 2001
Nashville, Tennessee
Some years ago, before a tragic fire destroyed it's contents, members of
the large scale live steam hobby in the United States organized and
maintained what was known as the "Live Steam Pattern Pool". The Pool was a
repository for donated patterns made by individuals for their own live
steam projects and which once used were no longer needed but which still
had lots of life. Organized and operated as a non-profit, non-commercial
cooperative, it was administered by a volunteer custodian who made the
collection available on a lending library basis to anyone in need within
the live steam community.
I would like to announce the creation of the Small Scale Pattern Pool,
created for the same purpose as its predecessor, and to be operated in the
same way. The principle focus will be on patterns for lost wax casting,
although other patterns will be accepted, and will be limited to those
intended for use in the garden gauges. For a period of time I will act as
interim coordinator and custodian, after which Lloyd "Salty" Foglequist
(Portland OR) will assume the role of permanent custodian. We already have
several patterns in the collection and a few more are promised in the near
future so we have a good start.
Although many details are yet to be worked out the operation of the pool
is simple. A pattern donated to the Pool may be checked out by a private
individual upon the payment of the cost of insured shipping both ways, a
small handling fee, and a nominal, refundable security deposit. The Pool
will not be the owner of the patterns but rather a custodian, and at any
time the owner can withdraw a pattern from the pool, either permanently or
temporarily. A few of the goals are to develop an electronic catalogue, to
make available technical resources on lost wax pattern making, and develop
guidelines to help the prospective pattern maker with materials and
techniques. Further details will appear in these pages as they become
available but to offer help, resources, or ask questions contact me at
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]> or 615/373-5829 after 5:00pm CST.
Harry Wade