W

e’ve already covered the issues around firing and how it is worst part of the hobby for not being green. Now lets talk about options to not only help you stay with the hobby you will grow to love, I hope as much as I do.

 

T

 Here are many references on different methods of firing, but I’d like to first address an option that will help you get into the ceramic and pottery hobby the fastest. That is by purchasing bisque ceramics. These are ceramics that have already gone through the firing process once. They have already been cleaned and are ready for your artistic talents in painting and decorating. And while the sophisticated potter might say you are cheating and missing the most basic of the craft, I remind us that we are in it for the joy of creating something, anything in clay that satisfies our creative juices. It’s our HOBBY not our life’s work. So check out premade bisque pieces, and remember that just because it has been through one firing doesn’t mean it won’t require another firing to become your creation. You can of course stain a piece and spray it so it doesn’t require another firing, that’s your choice. You can also paint it, add decals and glaze your piece and that’s what adds at least one more firing.

E

ven if you don’t own a kiln you can still take part in the creation of ceramics and pottery from scratch. One way is using a communal kiln at a local studio. This is an option with the least effort and cost on your part. There are many of these available in almost any part of the country. Even if they are a teaching or private studio they just might be willing to add your small pieces when doing their own firing.  For a price of course, but that’s still cheaper than buying a kiln of your own, unless you are planning to take your hobby to the next level.

G

oing to the next level can also allow you to be creative without necessarily buying a kiln. One of the next level techniques is Barrel Firing. To use this technique you will still have to start with bisque pieces, be they your own hand thrown or hand built creations. The wonderful thing about barrel firing is the end product. Barrel firing allows you to add oxides, carbonates, and copper wire that produce amazing colours much richer and deeper tones than any paint or stain allows. And you can also enjoy sitting around the flaming barrel taking pleasure from the fire and outdoors. It also doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to do. There are many books available on this technique; the key to this type of firing is of course the access to some wide open space that allows for barrel fires. If you have the opportunity to try it you will be astounded by the end results of your firing. 

T

hese are a couple of firing options available to the ceramics hobbyist just to get you started.   I will discuss more in later pages of the website. Until then try what ever is most available to you, the most important thing is to start. Trust me it is a hobby that you and your family can enjoy together for years to come.