Build Your Dream Pottery Setup
Kiln Knowledge And Safety
Candling is the initial phase in the firing process, particularly crucial for greenware, which is unfired or raw clay. During candling, the kiln is set to a low temperature, usually between 100°F to 200°F, for several hours. The primary purpose of this step is to ensure that all the remaining moisture in the clay is … Read more
It’s an important aspect to consider whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional artist. First off, always work in a well-ventilated area. Clay dust is harmful when inhaled, so some folks even opt for a dust mask. Secondly, certain types of clay contain materials like talc or silica that may pose health risks. Always read … Read more
Exposure to the elements can damage the electrical components, insulation and shell of an electric kiln. Extreme temperatures can cause the kiln to malfunction or even pose a safety hazard. Manufactures of electric kilns advise it is best to keep the kiln indoors or in a protected area. What are the considerations for keeping an … Read more
You can use an extension cord with a kiln. It is important to make sure the extension cord has the right gauge wire to handle the current the kiln requires. A kiln draws a lot of power, and using an extension cord with too small of a gauge wire can lead to overheating, fire, or … Read more
Kilns are oven-like structures that use heat to bake or dry a variety of materials such as ceramics, bricks, and wood. They work by heating a chamber to a high temperature and controlling the amount of air flow inside. This process allows for controlled and efficient heating, making it possible to produce consistent results. Kilns … Read more
Silica dust can stay in the air for varying lengths of time depending on factors such as air flow and humidity. In still air, silica dust can remain suspended for several hours. However, in an area with good ventilation, the dust will dissipate more quickly. Humidity can also impact the duration, with higher humidity causing … Read more
What Are Pyrometric Cones? For more than a century, pyrometric cones or pyrometric devices have been used to monitor ceramic firings. They can tell you when the firing is finished and if the kiln delivered adequate heat. Pyrometric cones can even tell you if there was a temperature differential in the kiln, or if an … Read more
Methods Firing is the method for making ceramics that can endure a lot of pressure. Firing takes place in an oxygen-rich environment. When it comes to firing pottery, there are two primary methods. The use of kilns and open firing are the two methods. The crucial step in the ceramic process is firing. It’s the … Read more
Using The Method It is an ancient method for firing pottery. Pit Firing goes back to 25,000 to 29,000 BCE. Unfired pots are grouped together in the ground and are surrounded by combustible materials. The pit is set on fire. After cooling, pots are cleaned and sometimes waxed, creating a smooth glossy finish. Random patterns … Read more
Using The Raku Method Raku firing is a low-temperature firing method. The pottery is removed from the kiln while the pots are hot and the glaze is still molten. Raku is typically made from stoneware clay. Raku firing is bisque fired at 900 °C or 1,650 °F. And glaze fired between 800 to 1,000 °C … Read more