Firing & Kilns
8 guides
Bisque Firing vs Glaze Firing: What Each One Does
Learn the difference between bisque firing vs glaze firing: what happens in each, typical temperatures, and why most pottery goes through both.
July 3, 2026
Buying Your First Kiln: What Beginners Should Know
Planning to buy your first pottery kiln? Learn what size, type, and features actually matter for beginners before you spend the money.
July 1, 2026
Understanding Pyrometric Cones and Firing Schedules
Learn how pyrometric cones work, what witness cones tell you, and how to build a firing schedule that matches your clay and glaze.
June 28, 2026
Why Pottery Cracks or Explodes in the Kiln
Pottery explodes or cracks in the kiln for a few fixable reasons. Learn why it happens and how to stop it before your next firing.
June 26, 2026
How to Load and Stack a Kiln Safely
Learn how to load a kiln correctly: kiln wash, shelf placement, post heights, spacing rules, and the checks to run before you close the lid.
June 19, 2026
What to Do If You Don't Have a Kiln
Want to know how to fire pottery without a kiln? Rent studio space, pay a firing service, or join a class. Plus honest notes on low-tech alternatives.
June 16, 2026
How to Dry Pottery Before Firing So It Doesn't Crack
Learn how to dry pottery before firing without cracks. Covers clay drying stages, slowing drying down, bone dry tests, and why rushing always backfires.
June 12, 2026
How a Pottery Kiln Works: A Beginner's Guide
Learn how a pottery kiln works, from heating elements and thermocouples to firing schedules and witness cones. A clear, practical guide for beginners.
June 7, 2026