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 and brimming with unpredictable beauty. Pit firing typically reaches temperatures ranging from approximately 600°C to 1,100°C (1,112°F to 2,012°F), although some sources claim it can reach up to 1,200°C (2,200 degrees Fahrenheit). This variation depends greatly on the type and amount of fuel used, as well as the pit’s construction.
The choice of fuel is crucial in pit firing. Wood is a staple, with hardwoods like oak providing a hotter, longer burn. Sawdust, especially hardwood, is often used to create a reducing atmosphere, resulting in those stunning, deep blacks on the pottery surface. You might even find yourself using dried animal dung, particularly in areas where wood is scarce, a testament to the resourcefulness of potters throughout history. The placement of your pots within the pit is also key. Close stacking can help retain heat and encourage reduction effects, while adequate spacing ensures the pieces don’t fuse together. Remember, the parts of the pot buried in sawdust will often turn black, so think about how you want to arrange them to achieve your desired patterns.
“Each firing is a new adventure, with the flames dancing their own dance and leaving their unique marks on your creations.”
Of course, safety is paramount. Always choose a location well away from flammable materials and check local regulations for open fire permits. Dress in natural fibers, wear heat-resistant gloves and safety goggles, and keep fire extinguishing tools close at hand. As the fire burns, it’s essential to monitor the process and allow for a gradual cool-down to prevent cracking. Cracking, in fact, is one of the common problems in pit firing, often caused by thermal shock. Using clay that’s resistant to thermal stress and ensuring a gradual heating and cooling process can help. Uneven firing and discoloration can also occur, so strive for an even distribution of combustibles around your pieces. To learn more, explore firing temperatures a potters guide. Also, consider reading up on unearthing the magic of pit firing to deepen your knowledge.
Despite careful planning, pit firing retains an element of unpredictability, which is part of its unique charm. Embrace the wobbles, celebrate the triumphs, and enjoy the deep connection to the earth and the long line of potters who have fired their work in this way for centuries.
