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glaze firing flat disks, glazed on both sides. any suggestions?

updated mon 19 mar 01

 

africaunusual@MWEB.CO.ZA on sun 18 mar 01


I know this has been covered before but I could not find it. Prolly
because I am stupid (and be damn careful before you agree with
me on that one!)
So, I string these disks on element wire...what is a good length for
the wire to be to avoid it slumping?
What is a good suggestion for using as posts to balance the wire
on? Notches cut in the top or holes through the posts? I am
leaning toward cut up insulation brick because apparently Fireclay
is no longer available here. To make a long lasting post, would I
need fireclay?
What is the quickest way to avoid getting glaze in the holes? Or is
it easier to take it out once in?
I know these are pretty basic questions but am hoping you will
indulge me anyway.
Toni somewhat repentant for asking "stupid" questions but high on
cool and rainy weather in Durban, South Africa

Cindy Strnad on sun 18 mar 01


Hi, Toni.

I've tried glazing napkin rings by stringing them in nichrome wire (well,
whatever the wire was that came with my bead tree), and the stuff slumped
something awful.

I think if you're firing anything heavier than a 10mm bead, you'll want
supports to hold the wire up *close* on either side of your
bead/disk/whatever. I think any clay that will stand up to your firing
temperatures will work. Probably better than firebrick, because it might be
hard to get the wire attached to the soft firebrick very firmly.

Did you get your wheel going yet?

Cindy Strnad
Earthen Vessels Pottery
RR 1, Box 51
Custer, SD 57730
USA
earthenv@gwtc.net
http://www.earthenvesselssd.com