Kiln & Firing Techniques

Alternative Kilns & Firing Techniques

Ceramicists searching for new ways to fire their creations now have a wealth of options. Authors James Watkins and Paul Wandless, along with a group of distinguished artisans, demonstrate in detail how to build low-cost, low-tech, yet high-quality kilns. The plans range from an easy, affordable, and versatile Raku Kiln to a unique wood-fueled Downdraft Stovepipe Barrel one. These clever devices make it possible to produce rich surface effects from alternative reduction firing techniques. In addition to showing the basic procedures for using each kiln, easy-to-follow directions for many fast-fire methods unfold in color photographs: You’ll see how to achieve terra sigillata surfaces with direct chemical application, and how to do traditional crackle-glaze raku and smoke finishes.

Electric Firing: Creative Techniques

Electric kilns are wonderful things! They’re so readily available and simple to install that you can easily take advantage of the incredible potential this tool has to offer. Nearly every ceramic artist now uses one in some capacity in their studio because electric firing offers a control and dependability not found with any other type of firing.

As the popularity of electric kilns increased over the years, manufacturers and suppliers made them even more versatile. Advances in controllers, energy efficiency, materials and safety now make it possible for studio potters to take advantage of this tool for relatively little investment. And, as the artists in Electric Firing demonstrate, there’s no limit to the creativity possible with this efficient and effective tool.