Reduction Glazing and Firing | German | Tues afternoons

A 4-week class aimed at people wanting to explore the realm of reduction firing. 

You will be taught what goes into a variety of traditional glazes such as shino, celadon, and copper red as well as have the chance to use them on your work. 

You will be guided through all stages of the firing and leave with a better understanding of the process and materials involved.

During the firing you will witness each stage of what is happening to the wares as well as the atmosphere inside the kiln.

Topics covered:

• Introduction to glaze calculation and raw materials
• What is a reduction atmosphere, how is this different from ∆6 electric 
• Loading and firing the reduction kiln 
• Shino glaze and application methods 

What is Reduction firing, and how is it different from our regular electric firings?

Reduction firing is a kiln firing process that limits the amount of oxygen available inside the kiln, affecting the chemical reactions that take place within glazes and clay bodies as they mature in the heat. This creates a distinct range of effects and colours that can only be achieved through this process — and it’s what makes Reduction firing so desirable.

The gas kiln is heated using naked flames, which flow through the space and interact directly with the ware, leaving their mark on individual pieces and making every pot truly unique.

This class is for students who have already been taking a ceramics class and already have wet product to fire.