Tip 9: Kiln Firing for Your Pottery

As mentioned earlier, pottery typically undergoes two firing stages: the bisque fire and the glaze fire. But why is firing in a kiln necessary? The bisque fire drives out moisture, organic matter, and carbon compounds from the clay, causing it to shrink and become rigid through a process called sintering. Once sintered, the clay transforms into ceramic material, making it no longer soluble in water.

After the bisque fire, glaze can be applied in liquid form, which dries on the ceramic surface. During the glaze fire, the glaze melts and forms a glassy, non-porous coating on the pottery, making it waterproof and visually appealing.

So, how do you get your pottery fired? You have two options: either invest in a kiln or utilize a local kiln firing service. Kilns are costly, require space, ventilation, and specific power requirements, making them a significant investment. If you're new to pottery, it's advisable to wait before purchasing a kiln and instead rely on firing services.

Finding someone with a kiln to fire your pottery is relatively easy, as many potters offer firing services for a fee. While some may do it for free, it's more common to pay a small fee. This option is much cheaper and less demanding than owning and operating your own kiln.

For tips on finding a pottery firing service near you, check out our article. With a little research, you'll be firing your pottery in no time!