Clennell on wed 27 aug 97
Firing Fast Freddie:
I have built and fired 4 fast freddie's in my short 20 year career as a
woodfirer. I used to fire the kiln in about 5 hours and know it can go
faster, but why would you want to? The faster you fire the less the pots
look like woodfired ware and more like gas fired. To get the kiln hopping
you alternate fireboxes and stoke when there is no smoke. I used a
chainsaw file and put a small hole in the peephole brick. If flame is
coming out the hole it has sufficient wood, as soon as the flame sucks into
the hole it is time to stoke. Do not take the time to scratch your bum,
pick your nose or have a sip of beer.
It is a simple rule- when there is no smoke- stoke! Finely split dry wood
will move this kiln like a Harley on nitro. Dry wood works wonders. Many
beginning woodfirers don't understand DRY. I split and dry wood long
before I think about pots for next year. You've only had two firings. If
you're in a hurry woodfiring is a silly option.
Good luck and if that's your way- give it hell! Long may your chimney smoke!
Tony
Sheila and Tony Clennell
Gleason Brook Pottery
Box l0, RR#2,
Wiarton, Ontario
NOH 2TO
Canada
Phone # 1 (519) 534-2935
Fax # 1 (519) 534-0602
E-mail clennell@bmts.com
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