Getting Fired Up With Electric Kilns

With the right clay bodies, glaze and a kiln forproduce unusual, one-of-a-kind effects. Some are
firing, you can create pottery masterpieces ofbright pastel glazes to create colorful stoneware.
your own. Electric kilns are a modern way toOther glazes can be used to fire in reduction and
make all types of pottery using various glazesoxidation to match stoneware and porcelain
and different temperatures. There are various kilnbodies. There are also texturizers to produce an
models for all kinds of creative endeavors withorange/yellow texture with a crystal appearance.
clay.On the other end of the spectrum, electric kilns
Electric kilns can be square, rectangular or round.can also be used for low firing with mediums such
Choose a model with superior insulation, strongas earthenware clay. Formulated from several
and long-lasting elements, quality components,clays for texture and plasticity, earthenware clay
reversible slabs to extend the kiln's life, premiumresembles stoneware. Although low fire glaze
refractory fire brick and a modular design.works well on earthenware clay, hire fire glazes
Accessories for electric kilns include ventingcan also be used to achieve attractive results.
systems, firing control and temperatureCertain glazes can be used on earthenware clay
equipment, supports, furniture and replacementto simulate the look of stoneware.
elements.Earthenware clay is also very versatile. You can
Electric kilns are available in different sizes anduse this type of clay for wheel throwing, hand
efficiencies based on your artistic needs.building, extrusions, slab work and sculpture. With
Professional kilns have a larger capacity and area fine grit, it is a stronger clay body which makes
often front-loading. There are also top-loading kilnsit easier to throw bigger pieces.
suitable for all different firing temperatures. FineA typical aspect associated with earthenware clay
art kilns are used to decorate glass, pain china andis the rich, reddish clay color. For over 9,000
enamel metal. Special vents improve air flow insideyears people have been making and using
the kiln to keep the firing area free of gases.earthenware. Various traditional styles with
Separate shelves can be purchased and used inearthenware include terra cotta, Mexican pottery
kilns for cone 10 refractory work and cone 13and Japanese raku. Plain earthenware is porous,
silicon carbide projects. Metal enameling kilns aresuch as a terra cotta planter. Earthenware can
used for glaze testing and firing small potteryalso be glazed to create beautiful, waterproof
pieces.dinnerware and artwork. Because earthenware
Cone 10 glazes are used for high fired clay pieces.clay is more forgiving than fine clay or ceramic
There are a variety of cone 10 glazes used toclay, many beginners start out using this medium.