Common Kiln Problems and How to Fix Them
Every potter who fires their own kiln eventually runs into problems — a firing that doesn’t reach temperature, glazes that look wrong, pieces that crack, or a kiln that behaves …
How to Read Witness Cones and Set Them Up
Witness cones are one of the most important tools in a potter’s kiln room — yet many potters skip them entirely, trusting their digital controller alone. The problem is that …
Electric Kiln Maintenance Guide: Before, During, and After Firing
A well-maintained kiln fires more evenly, lasts years longer, and keeps your studio safer. Small issues left unchecked — a dirty thermocouple, glaze on an element, a cracked brick — …
How to Load a Kiln: Bisque Firing, Tumble Stacking, and Glaze Firing
How you load your kiln directly affects how evenly your work fires. A poorly loaded kiln results in cold spots, glaze defects, broken pieces, and damaged shelves. A well-loaded kiln …
Kiln Firing Guide: Bisque, Glaze, Schedules, and Cooling
Firing a kiln is more than just turning it on and waiting. Understanding bisque vs glaze firing, how to set a firing schedule, when to use holds, and how cooling …
Understanding Cone Numbers: A Complete Guide for Potters
The cone number on your clay bag and glaze recipe — cone 6, cone 10 — determines whether your clay vitrifies, your glaze melts correctly, and your finished piece comes …