This is a selection to come out of the last firing in Jan 08. The kiln fired to around 1060 with a 20 minute soak, but I think i'll take the next one to around 1080.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Harvest on the Farm TV appearance
It’s great to be back on the Blog! The most exciting thing that’s happening right now, is that I’ve been asked to appear on Channel 5’s TV s...
-
Over the past months the Pottery seems to have evolved into something far greater than I ever imagined! If ever there was a week that summe... -
OK here are all the elements needed to build the kiln. I had some 3mm ceramic paper left over from building my large gas kiln 2 years ago. ...
4 comments:
Paul, These look nice. I especially like the bowl with the hills and trees on the rim. Ron
Hey Paul
Looking good, you must be pleased. I think if you drop the fuel back a little at the end for a while to allow a bit of re- oxidation, you'll get rid of that bubbling. That said, I like that effect, it reminds me of old Cardew Winchcombe pots. I'm sure you know all this, lead boils when it's reduced, but reduction also gives it some of the lovely tones that first dish has in its centre, so it's a balancing act. Maybe slow down the last bit of the firing. Great to see you on the blogging circuit and good to see some fine pots.
Thanks Guys, thats very encouraging. I read something in Michael Cardew's book Pioneer Pottery this week, he said " it has often been remarked that some potters are by
temperament "Clay Men" and others "Kiln Men". To the latter, a continuous devotion to the kiln and fires is easy and natural at all times. Clay men on the other hand, bound to the grosser elements, earth and water, must when the fire is once alight take a concious vow, at least for the duration of the firing, not to allow anything to distract or divert them from the kiln and it's demands. There is nothing static about fire. Flames and flame temperatures are moving continually in extension and time,and a few minutes lost may be irreparable. The Kiln is a jealous master - or mistress - demanding the undivided services of those who attend it".
Suddenly it all made sense I am a clay man !. five electric kilns with timers does not prepare you in any way shape or form, for the demands of a Gas Kiln.
Me too, clay man through and through. It's taken a long time for me to understand my kiln even though I've spent many many hours stoking wood kilns at Clive's r Nic's or Svend's. Each kiln is individual. It's only experience, often through getting it wrong that means you end up by getting it right. But that's good, if not a bit frustrating/expensive, or everybody would be able to do it, it's all part of becoming a master of your trade and that should take time otherwise why bother. Great though isn't it?!
Post a Comment