Alternative Kilns & Firing Techniques: Raku * Saggar * Pit * Barrel

by James C. Watkins, Paul Andrew Wandless

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Lark Books; First Paperback Edition (2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1-57990-952-3
ISBN-13: 978-1-57990-952-9
Dimensions: 11.0" x 8.55" x 0.4"
Shipping Weight: 1.59 lbs.

Try any of these fast-firing techniques to create a rich variety of textures and colors on bisque clay.

Ceramic artists often find the unexpected marks made when clay, heat, and smoke interact to be among the most intriguing and challenging of finishes to perfect and reproduce. Now, five skilled ceramists who have mastered some great low-temperature, fast-firing processes share their secrets and techniques.

Included is a detailed plan for building an easy, affordable, and versatile raku kiln that can be used for most of the methods covered in this book, including instructions for converting a natural-gas burner to propane. There's also a plan for constructing a unique wood-fueled downdraft stovepipe barrel kiln.

But the kiln is just a tool used in the service of ceramic art; the real thrill comes as you use it to create your own post-fired ceramics. You'll find complete instructions for discovering the right color, texture, and finish for your unique work here.

Learn to master Western-style raku, which produces exciting, chance-effect finishes on ceramic ware. Or try firing in a lidded metal or clay saggar (a reusable, heat-resistant container) to produce spectacular surfaces, as well as examples of pit firing and barrel techniques. Many of the processes produce beautiful colors and patterns by using organic materials for fuel and reduction—plus oxides, carbonates, and copper—to create a surprising range of colors and texture effects.