When you first receive your kiln, it is important to check it over for any potential damage or irregularities. Watch our short video for advice on what to look for when opening your new kiln.

 

All of our kilns will first need to be fired with only the kiln furniture inside the kiln. This will dry out any moisture, settle the brickwork and oxidize the elements. All vents should be open to let the kiln breathe. You should arrange your shelves and props as pictured below:

The manufacturer's manual will often recommend complicated first firings. We would recommend the following programmes; all of which are pre-programmed into the controller.

• Programme 1 for Nabertherm Kilns
• Programme 22 for Kilncare Kilns
• Programme 1 for Rohde Kilns 

Protecting Your Shelves 

If you wish to protect your shelves from the occasional splash and glaze run, then be sure to buy some Batt Wash.

Mix with water 1 to 1, mix up to a melted ice cream consistency.

Paint confidently and thickly on the upper most side of the batt. Not all the way to the edge as that will crack off.

Dry the batt as much as you can in the sun or airing cupboard, then re-fire to a low bisque temperature, leaving all vents open.

Sand is useful too, and will offer some protection, as It will raise the bottoms of wares allowing movement for shrinkage.

 

Visit our Firing Advice blog post or YouTube channel for further information.

You can also feel free to contact us on 01934 836040 (opt 3) or info@hot-clay.co.uk to speak with our Technical Coordinator.