Andie Plamondon on thu 7 jul 05
Regarding electric kiln firing times:
This will vary, sometimes widely, depending upon the number of shelves, how
tightly packed the kiln is, the weather (if your kiln is in an outdoor shed
or carport), and sometimes even the type of clay in the kiln.
I keep detailed records - I made a form and keep a binder of firings.
I make sure to note the number of shelves, whether the peepholes are open or
closed, how full the kiln is, the types of clay in the kiln, and the
weather, as well as firing specific notes about the pieces, glazes and any
problems. My chart also includes a drawing of my peephole view, the cone
numbers in the pack and sitter, and then a chart of turn-ups (I have a
manual kiln). I leave space at the bottom for post-firing notes.
I have about 90 firings finished in this kiln, and find it interesting to go
back and look over them. I know I got a certain effect in the glaze the time
I fired a little over, I know that with new elements my kiln reached cone 7
in 3 hours, and now...well, let's not talk about it. I know that the
presence of certain clays in my kiln effect the colors in the glazes around
them, and that certain glazes spit on my shelves.
I think keeping a kiln log or kiln diary is pretty important. I am happy to
email my chart (in .doc format) to anyone who wants it to get them started.
:) Andie Plamondon
Handful of Earth Pottery
Laurel, DE
www.handfulofearth.com
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