Imagine stepping into a world where fire dances with clay, where the unpredictable beauty of nature shapes each piece, and where the ancient traditions of pottery come alive. That world is the realm of the wood-fired anagama kiln. These kilns, steeped in history and artistry, offer a unique approach to ceramics, one that embraces the […]
Anagama Kilns: Fire, Wood, and Earth Read More »
Let’s explore the fascinating world of kilns, the heart of any pottery studio. Choosing the right kiln is a big decision, and it largely depends on the type of work you want to create, your budget, and your studio setup. We’ll look at the three main types: electric, gas, and wood-fired kilns, each offering distinct
Kiln Types: Electric, Gas, and Wood-Fired Explained Read More »
Imagine standing before a Noborigama kiln, a majestic structure climbing the hillside, its multiple chambers promising a symphony of fire and transformation. These traditional Japanese kilns, also known as climbing kilns, are not just tools but monuments to the potter’s craft, embodying centuries of innovation and community. Understanding their construction, firing techniques, and maintenance is
Noborigama Kilns: A Potter’s Guide Read More »
Firing temperatures play a critical role in the outcome of your pottery, influencing everything from the durability of the piece to the vibrancy of the glazes. Understanding the nuances of different firing ranges is essential for any potter looking to master their craft. Let’s explore the typical cone numbers for various clay types and the
Firing Temperatures: A Potter’s Guide Read More »
Saggar firing is a fascinating ceramic technique that allows potters to achieve unique and often unpredictable surface effects on their pottery. It involves placing ceramic pieces inside a container, the saggar, along with various combustible materials and chemicals, and then firing the whole assembly in a kiln. This process shields the pottery from direct flame
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Pit firing is an ancient and enchanting method of firing pottery, a technique that connects us to the earliest ceramic artists. Imagine digging a hole in the earth, nestling your carefully formed clay pieces within, and surrounding them with a combustible embrace of wood, sawdust, and other organic materials. It’s a process steeped in history
Unearthing the Magic of Pit Firing Read More »
When embarking on the ceramic journey, one of the most crucial steps is firing your pottery. This process transforms fragile clay into durable, lasting pieces. However, not everyone has access to their own kiln, making it necessary to seek out external firing services. Fortunately, there are several options available, each with its own set of
Where to Get Pottery Fired: Your Firing Options Read More »
Soda firing is a captivating ceramic technique that emerged in the 1970s as an alternative to traditional salt glazing, offering artists a unique way to achieve varied surface textures and subtle nuances of color. Instead of salt, soda firing introduces sodium compounds like soda ash (sodium carbonate) or baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) into a kiln
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Raku firing is a captivating and dynamic pottery technique, steeped in history and celebrated for its unpredictable, unique results. Originating in 16th-century Japan with potter Chōjirō, under the patronage of tea master Sen no Rikyū, Raku was developed to create tea bowls embodying Zen principles of simplicity and naturalness. The term “Raku” itself, meaning “enjoyment”
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Let’s dive into the fascinating world of firing pottery, where the magic truly happens and your creations transform into their final, durable forms. Two key techniques that potters use to achieve vastly different results are reduction firing and oxidation firing. Understanding these methods is crucial for any ceramic artist looking to control the look and
Oxidation vs. Reduction Firing: The Potter’s Choice Read More »