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Lesson Plans


Re: S.T. SeeksClay/Ceramic Lessons: Reward From Kiln God

From: Judie (judiej50)
Date: Wed Feb 16 2000 - 01:53:18 PST

  • Next message: Deeknik: "Re: Claymation"

    Depends on whether or not you want the finished piece to be "perfectly
    smooth" or rough. After the piece is bisque fired to cone 06 or 05, you
    can't do much to smooth out the surface. As far as an exploding kiln, just
    be sure all pieces are "bone" dry before turning up the kiln to high. I
    let the pieces air dry about a week before firing, then turn the switches
    up slowly when all the moisture is gone. You can check this by holding a
    mirror or a metal template up to a peep hole while the kiln is on low or
    medium. If vapor transfers to the mirror or metal piece, there is still
    moisture in the clay and you might have pieces to "explode" if you pump the
    kiln up to high at this point. Continue firing on low until no moisture
    shows up on the mirror test.

    Just take a deep breath and go for it. You'll have more fun that way!!!!

    Good luck.

    Judie J

    >funny artsednet should talk clay today....I just made my first slab candle
    >holder today to practice. I haven't touch clay for 30 years..since my last
    >pottery class in college.....I just got a new kiln and am scared to death to
    >blow up the school...or even worse.....ruin projects! One question....after
    >you form your piece, when so you smooth it or carve on it? Do you need to get
    >it perfectly smooth before you do the first firing? i'm really lost becuase I
    >usually know what i'm doing...and in this
    >area..??????????????????????????thanks. 

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