Requires attention to detail for successful outcomes.
Inspecting kiln shelves:
Prior to loading the shelves, check for flaky kiln wash, which may fall into the pots, and glaze fused to the surface, as it can be challenging to remove between firings.
Loading pots into the kiln:
Place the pots with care, ensuring they are not positioned too closely together to prevent fusion. Arrange volatile glazes apart and utilise cookies to catch glaze drips.
Closing the kiln:
Once all pots are loaded, close the kiln, and initiate the firing process according to the predetermined schedule.
Opening the kiln:
Anticipation builds as the glaze firing concludes. If the kiln has not cooled to room temperature, wear gloves for protection. The warmth coming off the pot is great during winter.
Results from the glaze firing:
Among the first pieces revealed are a daisy pot painted with underglaze and dipped in a clear base glaze, as well as a hand-painted pumpkin pot with same base glaze.
Additionally, a mug featuring our Ocean kelp glaze emerges, along with a test bowl decorated with copper carbonate-coloured slip.
Our ongoing project to refine the chrome pink test glaze has yielded the desired results, demonstrating the progress made in its chemistry.
The range of test mugs includes one coated with Tenmoku glaze and a cover. Further adjustments are needed to achieve the desired outcome, and we continue to fine-tune this glaze.
Furthermore, a test mug dipped in black and layered with Sic Copper Red Glaze has an appealing effect, giving the mug depth and character.
Overall, the excitement of witnessing the finished pottery fills us with satisfaction and fuels our motivation to explore and refine our techniques further.
Happy Potting to you! 😀
