Out of the Round and Into the Fire : A Handbuilding and Soda Firing Exploration

This five day workshop will have two main focuses.  We will learn handbuilding techniques including the use and production of original bisque molds and paper templates, coil and pinch methods, as well as slab-construction techniques. We will discuss components of form such as scale and volume and explore the possibilities of working with clay off of the potters’ wheel. Participants should expect to create a number of simple hump or slump bisque molds as well as tar paper templates to use in the creation of their own work. Molds made during the first portion of workshop will be bisqued if drying times allow. There will also be demonstrations of each stage of the “wet clay” making process and guided studio time to make and explore the technical components of creating well-crafted handbuilt forms in stoneware clay. 

The second main focus will be on atmospheric kiln loading and firing strategies and techniques with the use of The Bascom’s new soda kiln. We will be loading and firing the soda kiln to cone 10-11 as a class. This requires participants to bring with them cone 10 stoneware or porcelain works to be fired because of the limited making time during the workshop. These works can be either handbuilt or wheel formed, or a combination of both. It is preferred that work be bisque fired before arriving to the workshop. However, it may be possible to bisque prior to the loading day of the workshop if work arrives bone dry. Some basic glaze and slip decorating techniques for use in a soda kiln will be shared and discussed. A limited number of slips and glazes will be available for use, but participants are also welcome to bring glazed or slipped pieces as long as these are cone 10 compliant. In order to more fully grasp the essence of atmospheric soda firing, it is encouraged for participants to be open to firing raw, slipped or unglazed wares as well.  We will collaboratively load the kiln so that each participant has as an equal portion of the kiln space as possible.  Once the kiln has cooled and been unloaded techniques and methods of cleaning and cold-working the pots will be demonstrated and discussed. We will also collaboratively clean the kiln and kiln furniture as part of this workshop.

Participant Needs/ Tool List:
Respirator, eye protection, ear protection, leather/heat resistant gloves, various rib shapes and hardnesses, fettling knife, fork or scroring tool, wire tool, various loop trimming tools, needle tool, various brushes, wooden paddle